A few years ago, I stepped into the world of Microsoft Power Platform. Now, despite being in the Tech Sector for almost 30 years, I don’t have a hands-on technical background. But what I do have is a deep understanding of people, business operations, and just how frustrating inefficient processes can be. You know the ones. Those repetitive, time-consuming tasks that make you want to pull your hair out. The good news? Power Platform could be the solution.

These days, businesses are looking for ways to work smarter, not harder. But the idea of changing existing systems can feel overwhelming. Luckily, that’s where Power Platform comes in. It’s designed to help businesses automate tasks, make sense of their data, and build custom apps. All without needing to be a coding expert.

Use Technology: Make Work Easier

Technology should make life easier, not harder. That’s exactly what Power Platform does. It helps businesses streamline operations, reduce manual work, and focus on the tasks that really matter.

One of the best things about it? It connects different systems and brings all your data into one place. No more jumping between apps or searching spreadsheets just to find the information you need. Whether it’s automating HR approvals, tracking customer interactions, or managing finance documents, Power Platform helps businesses save time and keep things running smoothly.

Get Value for Money: Make A Smarter Investment

Let’s talk about cost. Traditional software development is expensive. Between hiring developers, building custom solutions, and waiting months for something to be up and running, the costs add up fast. Power Platform changes the game by offering a low-code environment where businesses can create their own solutions, without needing a huge budget or a big team of developers.

Because it’s low-code, it’s faster and more cost effective to develop and launch new solutions. Instead of spending months (and a fortune) on software, businesses can often roll out solutions in just weeks. Plus, if you’re already using Microsoft 365 or Dynamics 365, you can integrate Power Platform seamlessly without adding loads of extra costs.

Use Existing Resources: Give Your Team Autonomy

Your team knows your business best. They’re the ones dealing with the everyday frustrations, so why not give them the tools to fix those problems themselves? That’s what Power Platform is all about.

You don’t have to be an IT expert to use it. Employees from all parts of the business can create their own apps, automate repetitive tasks, and build reports that make sense. Instead of waiting on IT for every little thing, teams can take charge of their own improvements. You can put governance in place to make sure everything stays organised, secure, and scalable as your business grows.

And if your business already runs on Microsoft tools, Power Platform fits right in with minimal fuss. It’s all about working smarter and making life easier for everyone.

Delight Users & Customers: Custom Solutions That Work for Them

Off-the-shelf software can be a great solution, depending on the problem. Every business has unique challenges, and sometimes, the tools available just don’t quite fit. That’s where Power Platform shines.

With Power Platform, you can create solutions that are tailored to exactly what you need. Need better reporting? Build a Power BI dashboard. Want to automate responses or processes? Power Automate can help you out. The ability to pull insights, respond quickly, and personalise your systems means businesses can offer better service. Both internally and to their customers.

Set An Implementation Strategy: Start Small, Scale Up

What’s the best way to get started with Power Platform? Keep it simple. Start with a small project that solves a real pain point, get a quick win, and build from there.

A great approach is to work with experienced consultants or set up a Centre of Excellence to guide your strategy. That way, you can make sure you’re using best practices and getting the most out of the platform. As you start seeing results, you can expand its use across the business and get even bigger benefits. If you’ve already started and are experiencing a fragmented approach, then this can help you reset.

Want to Talk More?

Microsoft Power Platform isn’t just about automation, it’s about working smarter, empowering your team, and making business life a whole lot easier. If this sounds like something your business could benefit from, let’s grab a coffee (or a virtual one!) and chat.

Written by Jo McGovern, Chief Operating Officer