Model-driven apps
Compared with canvas apps, model-driven apps do not provide the same interface configuration capability. Instead, the developer begins by using business functions and business processes to create a data model in the Common Data Service and then selects and configures the components to be added to the app, such as forms, views, charts, and dashboards, in the Add Designer interface, as shown in Figure 4-4.
FIGURE 4-4 The App Designer interface in the Power Apps portal
Using the source data and the components selected by the developer, the app then uses the Unified Client Interface (UCI) to design and create a tile-based display like the one shown in Figure 4-5. By rearranging the tiles, developers make it possible for the app to automatically adapt itself to the screen configurations of different device types. Canvas apps therefore have more design flexibility, but model-driven apps support more complex business logic. In some cases, a model-driven app can function as the back end for a canvas app.
FIGURE 4-5 A model-driven app
Because they rely on the Common Data Service, model-driven apps have different licensing requirements than canvas apps. Microsoft 365 subscribers have the Power Apps/Power Automate license needed to create canvas apps using the standard set of connectors, but to use premium connectors or the Common Data Service, which is required for creating model-driven apps, an additional Power Apps license is needed.
Dynamics 365 is itself based on model-driven apps and the Common Data Service, so subscribers have the Power Apps/Power Automate licensing needed to create their own model-driven apps and use premium connectors. For users that do not subscribe to Microsoft 365 or Dynamics 365, there are standalone Power Apps licenses available on a “per user, per app” or “per app” basis, which include Power Automate capabilities. Both license options provide access to the full set of Power Apps capabilities, including the Common Data Service and standard, premium, and custom connectors.
Exam Tip
Candidates for the PL-900 exam should be aware that Microsoft provides time-limited trial versions of Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365, which include the full Power Apps and Power Automate capabilities described here. A trial version of Power BI Pro is also available as a separate product.