Service overview
Power Automate is a Microsoft cloud-based service that enables users to create automated workflows - called flows - between applications and services. These workflows help streamline repetitive tasks, improve efficiency, and reduce manual intervention across business processes.
Power Automate integrates with Microsoft 365 and a wide range of third-party applications, allowing users to automate actions such as notifications, data synchronization, approvals, and file management.
Here are a few examples of what you can do with Power Automate:
- Automate routine business processes and approvals
- Send notifications or alerts based on specific triggers
- Synchronize files and data across systems
- Collect and store data from forms or external sources
- Schedule recurring tasks and workflows
Who can use it?
Power Automate is available to all staff with a Microsoft 365 license.
How to request & access the service
Power Automate is included as part of the Microsoft 365 licensing and does not require a separate access request.
To access it:
- Go to the Microsoft 365 portal and sign in with your credentials
- Select Applications (or the app launcher)
- Click on Power Automate
- Refer to the Training section below for guidance on getting started
Cost
There is no additional cost associated with the standard version of this service included in Microsoft 365.
Note: Some advanced features and connectors may require premium licensing, which can be purchased upon a procurement request.
Availability
The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except during planned maintenance or unexpected outages.
Check the home page of the IT Support site for announcements.
Frequently asked questions
We use a flow created by a colleague who has left. The flow no longer works. Can this be resolved?
Yes. Orphaned flows can be reassigned. Please follow the process outlined in the Support section below.
Can someone create a flow for me?
Users are expected to build and manage their own flows. Power Automate is designed for self-service (citizen development), and central IT does not create flows on behalf of users.
Can someone update an existing flow for me?
Users should be able to maintain and update their own flows. IT support does not include modifying user-created workflows.
Can I connect Power Automate to external systems like ServiceNow or other third-party tools?
Some integrations require premium connectors. Availability depends on your organization’s licensing.
Is Power Apps supported as part of this service?
Power Apps is part of the broader Power Platform and is typically considered a separate service. Support may differ.
Best practices & policies
- Always assign at least one additional owner to each flow to ensure continuity
- Avoid using personal accounts for critical workflows
- Regularly review and test flows to ensure they continue to function as expected
- Document key workflows for team visibility and maintenance
Training & documentation
- Microsoft Learn: Power Automate training
- Power Automate documentation (Microsoft site)
- Power Automate community and support resources
Support
For access issues, authentication problems, or basic troubleshooting, contact the IT Service Desk.
For advanced requirements or complex workflows, you may open a Service Request in ServiceNow to request guidance from the AI & Automation team.