Part 1: Introduction to Power Automate and Triggers

Introduction

Power Automate, formerly known as Microsoft Flow, is a cloud-based service that allows users to automate workflows between apps and services. Part of the Microsoft Power Platform, Power Automate helps users connect applications, manage data, automate repetitive tasks, and streamline business processes without the need for deep technical skills.

Triggers in Power Automate

A trigger is an event that starts a flow. It can be based on a scheduled event, an action that occurs in a specific app, or a manual action initiated by the user.

Types of Triggers

1. Automated Triggers

   These are event-driven and are triggered automatically when a specific event occurs in an application or service.
   Examples
   • When an item is created or modified (SharePoint).
   • When a new email arrives (Outlook).
   • When a new row is added (Microsoft Data verse or Excel).

2. Instant Triggers

   These are triggered manually by a user action, such as clicking a button.
   Examples
   • Manually trigger a flow (used for on-demand actions).
   • For a selected item (runs when a specific item is selected in a SharePoint list).

3. Scheduled Triggers

   These are time-based triggers that run on a schedule.
   Examples
   • Recurrence (runs the flow at specified intervals, like daily, weekly, etc.).
   • At a specified time (triggers the flow at a specific time of day).