The Ask
The client requested an application to be integrated into their SharePoint site, enabling users to submit and oversee their travel expenses.
The Challenge
The application was required to enable effective management of departmental budgets. Users ought to have the capability to view the remaining budget of their department and submit expense requests as necessary. A tiered approval process would guarantee that minor expenses necessitate approval solely from the department head, whereas more significant expenses would require approval from the department. The categories of expenses encompassed travel, accommodation, and meals.
The Solution
We commenced by developing the core data model to fulfil the application’s specifications, outlining tables and their interrelations through an Entity-Relationship (ER) diagram. Subsequently, we worked alongside a UX designer to establish the order of screens and the arrangement of elements within the application utilizing Figma. After receiving the client’s endorsement of the designs, we proceeded to construct the application in Power Apps. We established the required tables, screens, and components, while incorporating essential functionalities such as the approval workflow. The approval procedure was executed and evaluated using Power Automate, which activated notifications to the relevant users through Outlook and Teams, based on the inputs received from the application.
The Outcome
Through a systematic approach, we effectively created an intuitive application that addressed the requirements for budget management and expense approval. Essential features, including the approval workflow, were smoothly incorporated and evaluated using Power Automate, enabling users to handle expenses effectively while maintaining adherence to approval procedures. The application improved communication by automating approvals via Outlook and Teams, thereby increasing transparency and oversight among departments.