With Microsoft Power Apps, missing functionality can be added leanly and efficiently without overloading the core ERP system. In this article, we’ll explore a practical use case showing you how Power Apps can automate tedious manual processes, saving companies significant time and effort.
Use Case: Dynamic transportation and handling surcharges
A typical scenario: a sales team needs to calculate dynamic transportation and handling surcharges based on weight and distance. The problem: the ERP system lacks functionality for this requirement, and manual calculations are time-consuming and error-prone.
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Challenges in the previous process
- Manual calculations: weight is tallied using calculators, surcharge tables are consulted, and distances are checked via Google Maps.
- Variable complexity: different surcharges apply depending on weight, distance, or minimum order value.
- Time-consuming process: each order is handled individually, making the process prone to errors and inefficiencies.
The Power Apps Solution
Instead of complex ERP programming, we created a Power App to address this gap efficiently. The app calculates dynamic transportation surcharges based on weight and distance.
Example
Customer A orders goods weighing 65 kg and lives 200 km away from the distribution center → an individual surcharge is calculated automatically.
Customer B orders goods weighing 15 kg and lives 60 km away → a different surcharge is calculated automatically.
Handling surcharges
A minimum value surcharge is automatically applied for low-cost items (e.g., €3.50).
Flexible handling
Surcharges can be adjusted both at the offer level (header surcharges) and the item level (e.g., transportation surcharge).
Seamless ERP integration
The app is embedded directly in the ERP system. Accessible via a button in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations (FO). The calculated surcharges are integrated directly into the quote, eliminating additional manual steps.
Conclusion
Power Apps are more than just tools for entirely new, innovative processes – they are also ideal for addressing white spots in existing business systems. They streamline everyday tasks that were previously manual and time-intensive. At the same time, they maintain a clean ERP core, avoiding direct customizations.
Our Tip
Analyze Power Apps before custom programming
For missing functionalities or small process gaps, it’s worth considering Power Apps first. They offer a fast, flexible, and cost-effective way to solve problems and boost efficiency in companies. Keep the core clean – with Microsoft Power Apps!
