Ever since I’ve found myself working in the online environment, and having done all my previous work on-premise, it seems I got almost addicted to various kinds of diagrams. This seem to be the only way I can even start to understand what’s happening in the PowerPlatform world. Not sure if it’s for better or worse, but, possibly, you’ll find it useful, too.
So here is one of those:
See, what if you wanted to explain the difference between Canvas and Model-Driven apps to somebody not familiar with one or both types of those apps?
This is what the diagram above is all about. First of all, there can be no talking about model-driven apps without CDS. But, when the data is in CDS, you can think of it as of a square where model-driven applications are better suited for complex data, and canvas apps are better suited for unique user interfaces.
Of course, if you have complex data and need unique interface, there is a problem. Well, this is where the diagram below might also help, since it goes into some of the additional details, yet it also mentions the concept of Embedded Canvas Apps:
I talked about this diagram in the Episode #2 of This or That, just could not get rid of the feeling that a more high-level view was still missing. So, hopefully, it’s good enough now.
PS. And just if you wanted to see yet another diagram, there is one more here: https://www.itaintboring.com/dynamics-crm/from-xrm-to-power-platform/
Great post!
In addition, do ensure that the licensing side has you covered.
Model driven apps can only be accessed by users with PowerApps P2 license or a full Dynamics license.
Hi Shidin, ha.. this thing is bigger than one post, that’s for sure. But you are right, licensing would be another consideration (although, I guess “technical fit” comes first anyway). Wrote a post on licensing a few weeks ago, so, for whoever is reading, this link might be useful: https://www.itaintboring.com/dynamics-crm/wrapping-my-head-around-the-licensing-for-dynamics-powerapps/