Introduction
Implementing a Power Platform Center of Excellence (CoE) can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it becomes a streamlined and efficient process. This playbook is designed to make it super easy to implement a Power Platform CoE, ensuring that all steps are followed and completed. By adhering to this playbook, each client receives a CoE tailored to their needs, developed in full collaboration with all stakeholders.
Purpose of the Playbook
The primary goal of this playbook is to provide a comprehensive guide for setting up a Power Platform CoE. It covers every aspect of the implementation process, from preparation to execution, ensuring that nothing is overlooked. The playbook is structured to facilitate a smooth and efficient setup, making it accessible even for those who are new to the Power Platform.
Key Steps in the Process
- Preparation
- Identity Setup: Determine the identity to use for the installation, ensuring it has the necessary security roles and licenses. For example, a user account with the Power Platform Administrator security role and licenses such as Power Apps Per User and Microsoft 365.
- Communication Strategy: Establish communication channels with admins, makers, and users through M365 groups. Create groups for different personas to facilitate communication.
- Data Source Selection: Choose the appropriate data source for your Power Platform inventory, such as Azure Data Lake storage or cloud flows.
- Planning
- Upgrade Strategy: Plan for regular upgrades of the CoE Starter Kit to avoid complications from skipped updates. New versions are released monthly, and it’s recommended not to skip more than two upgrades.
- Environment Creation: Create separate environments for testing and production, ensuring they meet all prerequisites. For instance, create a test environment for upgrades and new features, and a production environment for the actual CoE.
- Installation
- Solution Download: Obtain the latest version of the CoE Starter Kit, which includes all necessary components and tools. The starter kit comes in a zip file with solutions and Power BI template files.
- Solution Import: Import the core components and other solutions, following the detailed instructions provided. For example, import the CenterOfExcellenceCoreComponents_x.xx_managed.zip solution file.
- Configuration
- Environment Variables: Set up environment variables and turn on necessary flows. This includes configuring mandatory environment variables and turning on flows directly from the solution.
- Component Setup: Configure various components such as governance, compliance, and environment request components using the Setup Wizard or manual steps if needed. For example, set up the Developer Compliance components using the Setup Wizard.
- Post-Installation
- Regular Updates: Update the CoE Starter Kit at least every three months to keep up with the fast pace of changes in the Power Platform.
- Extend and Customize: Extend the CoE Starter Kit to meet specific needs and customize it based on feedback from stakeholders.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Implementing a Power Platform CoE can come with its own set of challenges. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
- Identity and Licensing Issues
- Challenge: Ensuring the identity used for installation has the correct security roles and licenses.
- Solution: Verify that the user account has the Power Platform Administrator role and necessary licenses such as Power Apps Per User and Microsoft 365.
- Communication Breakdown
- Challenge: Ineffective communication between admins, makers, and users.
- Solution: Create M365 groups for different personas to facilitate clear and structured communication.
- Data Source Configuration
- Challenge: Selecting and configuring the appropriate data source for Power Platform inventory.
- Solution: Use Azure Data Lake storage for data export or traditional cloud flows, ensuring all configurations are done in advance.
- Upgrade Complications
- Challenge: Difficulties in upgrading the CoE Starter Kit due to skipped updates.
- Solution: Follow the official upgrade guide from Microsoft and plan regular upgrades, not skipping more than two versions.
- Environment Setup
- Challenge: Creating and configuring environments correctly.
- Solution: Create separate test and production environments, ensuring they meet all prerequisites and follow the setup instructions carefully.
A Planner plan is used to manage the implementation
Take the guess work out of the picture, by using a plan in planner based on the playbook I ensure all aspects of the CoE are implemented and all elements from the CoE Starter Kit have been address by either installing them or decided to skip them.
Conclusion
Implementing a Power Platform Center of Excellence doesn’t have to be complicated. With this playbook, you have a clear and concise guide to follow, ensuring that every step is completed and all stakeholders are involved. By leveraging this playbook, you can create a CoE that is aligned with your organization’s needs and ready to support your Power Platform initiatives. Last bu not least using Planner to manage the work ensures noting is left to chance and it does not leave is with a question like “Did we configure the environment request process?”