Developing intuitive data entry interfaces in PowerApps often necessitates binding forms to collections. However, a prevalent challenge arises when trying to configure edit forms based on collections, given that the designer interface seems limiting. In this guide, we’ll uncover the intricacies of the clear collect PowerApps technique and offer practical solutions for setting a form’s data source to a collection. And, if ever you find yourself in a technical bind, remember that SoftwareZone365 is just a click away.
Challenges with Binding Forms to Collections
Using collections as data sources is pivotal for offline-capable apps, a topic extensively covered in various resources. However, the designer often restricts the addition of fields to such forms. The essence of the challenge is that while the designer allows the setting of a collection as a data source, it restricts binding specific fields within the collection.
Understanding the Issue
For illustration, consider the formula:
ClearCollect(colProfiles,
{
Firstname:"Jane", Lastname:"Doe",
Street:"123 Elm St", City:"Metropolis"
}
)
On binding an edit form to the ‘colProfiles’ collection and attempting to edit fields, the designer grays out the ‘Add field’ option, thereby impeding the creation of cards based on the collection’s fields.
While adding custom cards is feasible, they inherently lack an update property, a critical omission as evidenced in multiple scenarios.
Reference: Collect, Clear, and ClearCollect functions in Power Apps
A solution to the Conundrum
The key lies in leveraging a connected data source with identical fields to the desired collection – be it from Excel, SharePoint, SQL Server, Dataverse, or others.
By temporarily assigning this connected data source as the form’s data source, one can seamlessly add cards with the essential update property. Upon designing completion, reverting the data source back to the original collection is possible. Even if a notification suggesting no data connection appears, the form still operates as anticipated, editing the records effectively.
Wrap Up
While PowerApps presents an initial challenge when setting a collection as a form’s data source, the solution is straightforward with a bit of creative maneuvering. Utilize a connected data source for form design and subsequently switch back to your collection. Should you seek an alternative or are reluctant to create a new data source, adjusting properties like DataField, DisplayName, Default, and Update based on an existing data source can also serve the purpose. And remember, for any further guidance, SoftwareZone365 is always ready to assist you.
