Daveverse - Importing Managed Solutions - Upgrade vs Update

Key insights

• Managed vs Unmanaged Solutions: Scott Durow and Shan McArthur discuss the key differences and when to use each option.
• Options for Importing Managed Solutions: An in-depth look at the available options for importing managed solutions to the Power Platform.
• Current Recommendations: Guidance on current best practices for importing managed solutions and the necessity to avoid patches.
• Upcoming Changes: Details on forthcoming changes to the upgrade versus update process and new recommendations for Power Platform users.
• Rollout Timeline: An outline of when these changes to the Power Platform managed solutions process are expected to be implemented.

Exploring Managed Solutions in Power Platform

Managed solutions in Microsoft Power Platform represent a pivotal aspect of application lifecycle management, distinguishing between controlled (managed) distributions and open (unmanaged) solutions for customization. These solutions facilitate the delivery of specific functionalities within the platform, empowering developers and admins by ensuring a seamless deployment and maintenance process. Understanding the distinction between managed and unmanaged solutions enables users to harness the Power Platform more effectively, ensuring that they can maintain the integrity of their applications while adapting to ever-evolving business needs.

As the Power Platform evolves, so too do the strategies for managing these solutions. The platform's adaptability is showcased through its approach to updates and upgrades, where Microsoft constantly refines processes to optimize performance, security, and user experience. By staying informed about the latest recommendations and impending changes, Power Platform users can anticipate adjustments in their application lifecycle management practices, ensuring that their solutions remain robust and responsive.

Moreover, the transition towards more streamlined version control and deployment methodologies underscore Microsoft's commitment to enhancing the user experience for developers and administrators alike. This ongoing evolution highlights the importance of continuous learning and adaptation for all Power Platform users, as they navigate the complexities of managing solutions within this dynamic ecosystem.

In a recent episode of the Low Code Revolution, hosted by Scott Durow, an insightful discussion was unveiled with guest Shan McArthur regarding the deployment of managed solutions to Power Platform. The episode delves into the nuances of importing managed solutions, contrasting the options between managed and unmanaged solutions, and outlining some significant changes in the upgrade and update processes that professionals in the field should be aware of.

Understanding Options for Deployment

• Managed vs Unmanaged Solutions: The episode starts by differentiating between managed and unmanaged solutions, providing a groundwork for understanding the options available.


• Options When Importing: Further, it navigates through the various options available when importing managed solutions into Power Platform, ensuring viewers are well-informed on the best practices.


• Recommendations and Changes: The crux of the discussion focuses on current recommendations for deploying these solutions, the reason to avoid patches, and forthcoming changes in the recommended practices for updates and upgrades.

Shan McArthur articulates why certain options are preferred over others and sheds light on the evolving recommendations, providing valuable insights into application lifecycle management within Power Platform. This episode is particularly beneficial for those interested in leveraging Power Platform's capabilities efficiently and staying abreast of the latest developments in solution management practices.

Moreover, the conversation includes an announcement regarding the timeline for the rollout of these changes, prompting professionals to anticipate and prepare for the adjustments in their deployment strategies.

For additional details on Application Lifecycle Management in Power Platform, the episode points viewers to a resourceful link, ensuring that the audience has access to in-depth information and can further explore the intricate aspects of managing lifecycle changes in the platform.

Exploring Dynamics CRM and Power Platform

The integration of Dynamics CRM with Power Platform signifies a transformative approach to business application development and management. Dynamics CRM, a robust customer relationship management tool, when combined with the innovative capabilities of Power Platform, unlocks new avenues for automating workflows, analyzing data, and creating custom applications with minimal coding.

Power Platform's low-code environment empowers users to seamlessly import solutions into Dynamics CRM, enhancing efficiency and productivity. The emphasis on managed solutions within this ecosystem is pivotal for ensuring that applications can be upgraded or updated without disrupting existing functionalities or customizations.

This synergy not only streamlines operations but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Businesses leveraging Dynamics CRM and Power Platform together can expect to accelerate digital transformation initiatives, deliver personalized customer experiences, and achieve operational excellence.

The recent update on deployment strategies provides a clearer roadmap for adopting these technologies effectively. By understanding the distinctions between managed and unmanaged solutions and adhering to the recommended practices, organizations can ensure that they are optimizing their investment in Dynamics CRM and Power Platform.

As the landscape of technology continues to evolve, staying informed about best practices and upcoming changes is crucial. The insights shared in the episode of Low Code Revolution underscore the importance of adapting to new methodologies for managing application lifecycles, highlighting the ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience and maximizing the potential of Dynamics CRM and Power Platform.

People also ask

What is the difference between upgrade and update in importing a managed solution?

When applying an upgrade to a managed solution, it results in the removal of the previous version along with any elements that are not present in the new package. Conversely, selecting update simply installs the new version over the existing one, ensuring that components not included in the newer version remain unaffected and continue to exist in the system.

What is the process to update the managed solution?

The process involves initially exporting the managed solution. Following the completion of the export, the solution is then downloaded for subsequent use.

What are the limitations of managed solutions?

Cons associated with managed solutions include limited adaptability due to their immutable configuration. To implement any required changes, it necessitates an update originating from the solution's developer followed by a reinstall process. Additionally, these solutions may introduce dependencies within the system.

What is the difference between managed solution and unmanaged solution?

Managed solutions are akin to sealed packages intended for deployment, typically within a production environment. In contrast, unmanaged solutions are considered open-source or community packages, preferable for development and testing phases. It's important to note the export constraints associated with managed solutions, as they cannot be exported once installed.

Keywords

Importing Managed Solutions Changes, Upgrade vs Update Process Dynamics 365, Dynamics 365 Solution Management, CRM Solution Importing Updates, Managed Solutions Best Practices, Dynamics CRM Managed Solutions Upgrade, Update vs Upgrade Managed Solutions, Dynamics 365 Solution Import Changes