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Cover image for Magical Launchpads: Simplifying Power Apps with Custom Shortcuts
Bala Madhusoodhanan
Bala Madhusoodhanan

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Magical Launchpads: Simplifying Power Apps with Custom Shortcuts

Intro

Power Apps enables organizations to create custom applications tailored to their specific needs. However, navigating through multiple apps can sometimes be cumbersome for end-users. What if there was a way to create dedicated icons on desktop for end users to launch their desired apps with a single click or tap. Lets explore how to set up the magical world of custom shortcuts and simplify the way your user community interacts with Power Apps

Crafting the Magic

  • Find the App URL Obtain the URL link to the specific Power App using the web portal. Click on the details for the specific App and copy the WebLink information

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https://<<YOURTENANTENVIRONMENT>>/main.aspx?appid=<<app id generated like xxxxx-xxxx-xxxxx-xx-xxxx>>

  • Setup of Shortcut Copy chrome shortcut on the desktop . Rename the shortcut as your App Logical name Launch. Right click and change the properties . Amend the target command by adding "** --app="AppURL"**". This code is a command line instruction to open Google Chrome and launch it with a specific web application. The --app="URL" is a switch that tells Chrome to open in 'application mode' with minimal UI, directly displaying the specified web page.

Example of the templated as below

"C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe" -- app="https://<<YOURTENANTENVIRONMENT>>/main.aspx?appid=<<app id generated like xxxxx-xxxx-xxxxx-xx-xxxx>>"
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You could also stretch this to custom branding by changing the ICON's

MAGIC

Demo

Effortless App:
This not only saves time but also enhances the overall user experience by reducing the steps required to access essential tools. Custom shortcuts can be tailored to reflect the branding and functionality of the specific Power App, making it easier for users to identify and differentiate between various applications. This level of personalization ensures that users can quickly and efficiently access the tools they need, leading to increased productivity and satisfaction within the user community.

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