Whether you’re looking to code your application from scratch or use building blocks to create no-code and low-code applications, Microsoft 365 has all the tools needed to enable you on your development journey. From add-ons and integrations for Microsoft services, to custom web and mobile applications — you can build anything you need to empower your business!
But how exactly do you go about building apps on Microsoft 365? This article will provide an overview of the tools and platforms to start developing your own apps.
This article covers:
Microsoft Graph is the API for Microsoft 365. It enables you to securely connect to your personal and organizational data in Microsoft, letting you build applications that leverage this data to create powerful experiences.
Do you dream of switching seamlessly between devices—from your Windows desktop to your iPad to your smartphone running Android—without missing a beat? Microsoft Graph provides a single endpoint that offers access to all your Microsoft 365 data, making such experiences possible at work.
To start using Microsoft Graph, you must register your app and get the appropriate authentication tokens for a user or service. Then, you can begin making data requests to Microsoft straight from your application.
The services that are accessible through Graph API are:
Graph API is the backbone of all app development in Microsoft 365. Whether you’re building service integrations or standalone applications, Microsoft Graph is the technology that makes it happen.
Now that you’re familiar with the core concept of app development in Microsoft 365, let’s explore the types of apps you can build.
Standalone applications include web apps, desktop apps, device-native apps, automated workflows, and scheduled processes. These apps can run on any platform, such as Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, while remaining connected to the Microsoft ecosystem. For instance, users can sign in to your app using their Microsoft account, ensuring seamless integration.
Examples of Custom Apps include:
These apps can even be customized with more advanced features, like:
Did you know? Custom apps connected to your tenant often undergo fewer measures before going live. Find and fix these apps with the Entra Security Scanner for app registration.
Extensions are add-ons or integrations that enhance Microsoft applications beyond their original capabilities. For example, an add-on for Microsoft Teams might enable healthcare professionals to conduct secure Health Team Huddles to collaborate on patient care.
Microsoft 365 offers various developmental tools suitable for different experience levels—from packaged applications to no-code workflows and full-scale custom programming.
Microsoft AppSource is a marketplace for third-party add-ons and integrations tailored to industry-specific and business-focused use cases. It’s the go-to app store for businesses using Microsoft 365, offering tools ranging from calendar bots to e-commerce solutions.
PowerApps is a no-code/low-code development platform that enables the creation and deployment of mobile and web applications directly within Microsoft 365. With a drag-and-drop interface and pre-built templates, PowerApps simplifies app development for non-developers while offering extensibility for professionals.
According to Forrester Consulting, PowerApps reduces development costs across your organization by about 74%, offering an ROI of up to 188% in just 3 years. Combined with the rest of the Power Platform, it lets you build applications, automate workflows, and support your organization with sophisticated business intelligence all in one place.
Building and deploying enterprise applications requires a robust system for testing without affecting live environments. This is where the Microsoft 365 Developer Program excels.
The key features of the Developer Program include:
These sandbox environments help ensure development processes don’t disrupt live environments.
But, while the Developer Program simplifies sandbox creation, it does not ensure consistency between testing and production environments. Unfortunately, this can lead to configuration mismatches.
Address the gaps in the Microsoft 365 Developer Program with CoreView.
When used alongside the Microsoft 365 Developer Program, CoreView ensures alignment between non-production and production environments, reducing the risk of configuration drift.
