Power Automate Flows – why proper naming is important

by HubSite 365 about Alex Shlega [MVP]

Microsoft Power Platform Consultant/Solution Architect, Business Applications MVP

Citizen DeveloperPower AutomateLearning Selection

It might be a little exaggerated on the screenshot below, but this illustrates the problem well: There are two flows, both having the same name, both having the

Power Automate Flows are crucial tools in the IT space, but the importance of appropriate naming cannot be overstated. As illustrated in the screenshot, two flows can have the same name, triggers, and actions, making it difficult to differentiate between them.

Power Automate Flows: Vital in IT, require proper naming for differentiation
Identical flow names, triggers, and actions: Difficult to distinguish, subtle differences exist
Flow details: Linked Dataverse table, sent emails make the difference
Challenges for new developers: Understanding small flows possible, but hard for larger, identically named flows
Naming convention: Essential for easy flow comprehension, reduces confusion, increases efficiency

Microsoft Power Automate Naming Convention

Purpose of the Flow: Start the name with the main purpose of the Flow. It should be clear and concise, yet descriptive enough so anyone can understand the function of the flow without needing to open it. For instance, EmailNotification.
Trigger: Include the main trigger that initiates the Flow. For instance, if it's initiated by a new item in a SharePoint list, you can use SP (short for SharePoint) or NewItem.
Action: Include the main action the Flow performs. For example, if it's sending an email, use SendEmail.
Scope/Department: If the Flow is specific to a certain department or scope, include that. For example, if it's for the sales department, use Sales.
Sequential Numbering: If there are multiple Flows that serve similar purposes, add a number at the end for differentiation, like 01, 02, etc.
Environment: If you're using multiple environments (like Development, Testing, Production), you may want to include this in the name.

Putting it all together, a Flow might be named something like EmailNotification_SP_NewItem_Sales_SendEmail_01_Production.

Remember, the key for naming convention is that it should meet your team's or organization's needs and be consistently used to ensure clarity.

Importance of Power Flows Naming Convention

Properly naming Power Automate flows is crucial for developers and users alike. It streamlines the identification process, reducing the risk of confusion and mistakes. Especially in complex flows featuring numerous actions, thoughtful and distinct naming helps in navigation and comprehension. A clear naming convention can improve efficiency, ensuring that the exact purpose of each flow is easily understandable. More importantly, it creates a more user-friendly environment, promoting effective and efficient collaboration within teams.

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Learn about Power Automate Flows – why proper naming is important

Proper naming of Power Automate Flows is important for clarity and organization. By creating a naming convention that is descriptive and meaningful, it is easier for developers to understand the purpose of the flow. For example, instead of naming the flow “Send Email”, one could name it “Send Email to Contacts When New Opportunity is Created”. This is much more descriptive and helpful for understanding the purpose of the flow.

By creating logical, descriptive names for Power Automate Flows, it is easier for developers to navigate and understand the purpose of the flow. This makes it easier to troubleshoot, modify, and expand the flow. It also makes it easier to find a specific flow when there are many flows in a single environment.

When creating a Power Automate Flow, it is important to consider the naming convention. This will help ensure the flow is easily understood and navigable. Descriptive and meaningful names should be used to make it easier to understand the purpose of the flow.

Keywords

Power Automate, Automation, Flows, Naming Convention, Dataverse, Triggers