Power Apps lets you submit data using methods like SubmitForm, Patch, Collect, Update, Power Automate, or Dataverse APIs based on how simple or complex your requirement is. Each method is designed for a specific scenario, from simple form submission to advanced enterprise workflows.
1. SubmitForm() —Best for standard forms
Used with Edit Forms to send user input directly to a connected data source. It automatically handles validation, required fields, and whether a record should be created or updated.
Example: SubmitForm(Form1)
2. Patch() — Most flexible method
Patch lets you create or update records while controlling exactly which fields change. It’s ideal when you need custom logic, partial updates, or advanced scenarios.
Example: Patch(Orders, ThisItem, {Status:”Approved”})
3. Collect() / ClearCollect() — Add new records
These functions insert new records into a data source or collection. They’re commonly used to add records or temporarily store data inside the app.
Example: Collect(Orders, {Title:”New Order”})
4. Update() / UpdateIf() — Modify existing data
These are used to update existing records based on conditions. They work well when you need to change multiple records at once without writing complex logic.
Example: UpdateIf(Orders, Status=”Pending”, {Status:”Completed”})
5. Power Automate — For advanced processing
Power Apps can send data to a flow, which can then perform complex tasks such as sending emails, calling APIs or running backend logic.
Example: MyFlow.Run(Value1, Value2)
6. Custom APIs / Actions — Enterprise scenarios
Apps can submit data to server-side logic defined in Dataverse, such as custom actions, plugins, or business rules. This is typically used in enterprise solutions that require centralized validation or multi-table processing.
