InfoPath

Microsoft has announced that the manufacturer is discontinuing InfoPath. Affected companies have until 2026 to switch to an alternative for InfoPath.

InfoPath is a form tool with a designer and a "filler" as a desktop client. The Microsoft InfoPath software also offers the option of using forms and form templates in SharePoint via the browser and digitizing business processes. However, InfoPath also has its limits, such as the keyword: mobile accessibility.

So, it's unsurprising that companies are still using InfoPath forms today. In the age of Power Apps and Power Automate and the need to move to an alternative for Microsoft Infopath, now is the best time to take advantage of these opportunities. Switching to the Power Platform offers many possibilities, such as ...

• scrutinize the current process and inputs made,
• optimize these inputs,
• improve the general presentation,
• the mobile display and mobile apps, including the use of camera and GPS,
• integration with other source and target systems,
• Support and improve workflows with Power Automate.

Power Apps is part of the Microsoft Power Platform, a suite of applications and services that enables users to create customized business applications quickly and easily. Based on a low-code/no-code approach, they can also make simple and complicated digitalization solutions. This relieves the burden on the internal IT department and leads to quick results - with little IT knowledge. Nevertheless, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the best practices.

With Dataverse, users can store data in a database and build the data model using a browser-based designer. The Power Platform connectors also enable connection options with various third-party systems. The Power Platform now has over 1000 connectors, which is growing.

Currently, there is no migration tool for an automated changeover. However, in the case of Copilot for Microsoft 365, the new version of Power Apps can be set up with the help of AI. Nevertheless, knowing which problem the app needs to solve is necessary. This means there are a few essential steps you shouldn't skip:

1. Identify the most critical functions and data that InfoPath forms need to capture. This will help you determine which elements to integrate into your Power Apps solution.

2. Create a data model for your Power Apps forms. This may mean recreating your existing InfoPath data structures in Power Apps or creating a new one that is better tailored to your organization's needs. You can also reuse the existing one and make optimizations as needed. This can also be a SharePoint list.

3. Create your Power Apps application step by step. Start with the simplest forms, then work up to the more complex ones. Inline validation, templates, and automated workflows can also improve the usability of the forms.

4. Ensure that your Power Apps solutions are secure. You can use security measures such as role-based access control, data encryption, and security logging to do this.

5. Test your Power Apps solutions extensively to ensure they work flawlessly and correctly capture all required data.

6. Train your employees in using Power Apps forms to ensure they can use the new forms effectively.

7. Use the knowledge of experts. When switching to a new platform, the support of an external service provider is an advantage. They have best practices for Power Apps or can guide you through the entire process.

The rules also mean that each InfoPath solution has to be considered, evaluated, and planned individually. However, the effort is worth it. Improvements and optimizations benefit future use and can reduce further work steps. Power Apps also offers new options, such as using smartphones' cameras to scan barcodes or create documentation. This also applies to app modernization, which involves carrying out an assessment and checking how applications can best be made to run on which platform.

Migrating InfoPath forms to the Power Platform can lead to process optimization. The best way to find out how we can support you is to see for yourself. Please feel free to contact us.