Microsoft Power Apps
Low-code app builder in the Microsoft Power Platform
Power Apps lets people without a programming background build apps for their organization. Makers choose canvas apps, where you design screens by dragging controls, or model-driven apps that are generated from a data model. Typical uses include inspection forms, approval workflows, inventory trackers, and internal portals that replace spreadsheets and email chains. Apps run on web and mobile and integrate with Microsoft 365 and Teams.
It connects to a large range of data through connectors, including SharePoint, SQL Server, Salesforce, and Dataverse, Microsoft’s data platform. Power Automate adds workflow logic, and Power BI provides reporting. Copilot can create an app or a table from a plain-language description and help with formulas, and newer features allow building apps by chatting with an agent. Governance tools let IT manage environments and data policies.
Power Apps is paid, licensed per user or per app, in addition to a limited use included with some Microsoft 365 plans. Licensing can be confusing, and apps that grow complex require careful design. It is best for organizations that already use Microsoft products. Alternatives include Retool and Appsmith for internal tools, Airtable, Zoho Creator, Mendix and OutSystems for enterprise low-code, and AI app builders like Lovable and Bolt for code-generating approaches.