Microsoft Power Platform now has millions of monthly active users, and it’s continuing to grow. Obviously, for ISVs (Independent Software Vendors) developing third-party apps, connecting their product to the Microsoft ecosystem would be a boon. They would have so much more exposure to users looking for compatible software solutions. But to integrate with Microsoft, ISVs must develop connectors.
What Is a Connector?
A connector, as the name implies, forms a connection between your third-party app and Microsoft’s system, facilitating the flow of information. The connector is the middleman. It translates data from your app into information that your Microsoft systems can comprehend and interface with.
Traditional integration approaches can be costly and time-consuming. Connectors are faster, easier, and less expensive. The best connectors will integrate your software easily without the trouble and expense of developing multiple point-to-point integrations. When you attach the connector to your application, you start the conversation with your Microsoft system.
Integrating With Microsoft
Power Platform is the foundation for integration with the entire suite of Microsoft technology, including Microsoft 365, , and numerous built-in and add-on applications. These systems are interconnected and designed to work seamlessly together. Power Apps, , Power Automate, Power Virtual Agents, Business Central, Dataverse, and many related applications belong to the Power Platform network.
Power Platform allows you to integrate your software applications into Supply Chain Management, or any other Microsoft solution with only one connector.
Power Platform integration makes your solution available to tens of millions of active Microsoft users who would appreciate your technology. Forrester reports . With nearly 100% adoption among the most prominent businesses in the world, why wouldn’t you want your product to be a part of this global platform?
Consider Becoming a Microsoft ISV Partner
Partnering with Microsoft can propel your business to the next level. ISVs who have developed a valuable, effective app should
- Your app has market demand, but you aren’t a part of Microsoft’s ecosystem.
- Your product is performing successfully outside of Microsoft.
- Your clients want Microsoft integration.
- You are Microsoft-based but not plugged into the Power Apps environment.
- You are an SAP-centric ISV, but your customers are switching to Microsoft solutions.
- You are a small company and could use the help of an (like Enavate) to help you grow your solution.
Getting Started
First, your app must have compatible APIs () and webhooks. An API enables two-way communication with other solutions, and a webhook allows your software to trigger actions based on pre-set events. For example, when a distributor’s customer submits an order, a webhook can trigger an automatic alert to their warehouse management system.
Most of our customers already have software with APIs built in, but they could use help to develop appropriate webhooks. Our team of professionals at Enavate will walk you through the process and help you develop APIs, webhooks, and connectors for your unique needs.
After your app has the correct APIs and webhooks established, you can develop a connector. This calls for using Microsoft’s infrastructure. Low code/no code features drag-and-drop functionality, so connectors (and applications) can be made with little to no coding.
Once a connector is in place, it wraps around your solutions and Microsoft’s APIs and acts as a mediator to convert data into a readable form compatible with both systems. Your various solutions can now interact seamlessly and function harmoniously.
Previously, ISVs would develop point-to-point connections between their software solution and each program needing integration. That was expensive and time-consuming. With Power Platform allowing applications to be interconnected, ISVs need only focus on developing one connector. Many of our clients are pleasantly surprised by the inexpensive, simple process of creating and implementing custom connectors.
The Next Step
Building custom Microsoft connectors isn’t common knowledge, but it is essential to successfully . If you need a custom connector but aren’t sure you can do it yourself, don’t worry! understand the process, identify possible compatibility issues, and help build APIs, webhooks, and custom connectors.
to learn how connectors can help your ISV solution thrive in the Microsoft Power Platform ecosystem.
By Enavate,