Plan, Develop, Document

Hi, my name is Marie Castine, and I am a seasoned developer based in Atlanta, GA. With over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, I have worked in a variety of roles, gaining expertise in software development, usability, design, and process automation.

Over the past five years, my primary focus has been on building innovative applications using Microsoft Power Apps, streamlining workflows with Power Automate, managing and optimizing SharePoint environments, and leveraging Power BI for data visualization and business intelligence. I am passionate about creating efficient, user-friendly solutions that enhance productivity and drive digital transformation.

Plan

  • Timeline
  • Workflows
  • Style Guide

The first phase when working on a Power App is to develop a comprehensive plan that outlines the application’s structure, functionality, and objectives. This includes mapping out workflows to ensure seamless user interactions, efficient data processing, and streamlined automation. By establishing a clear roadmap and defining key processes from the start, I can create a well-organized and effective application that meets user needs and business goals. Creating a style guide for the app, which defines fonts, colors, brand identity, naming conventions, and iconography is also key. This ensures consistency, enhances user experience, and aligns the app with the organization’s branding standards.

Development

  • User Interface
  • Development of app
  • Power Automate integration

The second phase involves developing the app based on the established plan and style guide. This includes building out the user interface, integrating workflows, and implementing key functionalities to align with the outlined objectives. Throughout the development process, continuous testing is crucial to ensure the app functions smoothly, meets user expectations, and operates without errors. Regular testing helps identify and resolve issues early, leading to a more stable, efficient, and user-friendly application. Develop Power Automate flows to integrate with the app and trigger email notifications based on the specific criteria established in phase one. Technical documentation is initiated at the start of the project and continuously updated as changes occur throughout the development process.

Documentation and User Testing

  • User Interface
  • Development of app
  • Power Automate integration

Phase 3 involves comprehensive user testing across various roles to ensure the app functions effectively for all intended users. This testing phase helps identify any usability issues, workflow inefficiencies, or technical bugs that need to be addressed before deployment. Additionally, detailed guidance documents are created to support users in navigating the app, understanding its features, and troubleshooting common issues. These resources ensure a smooth onboarding process and long-term usability.