What is AI Builder?

AI Builder is a powerful tool developed by Microsoft that revolutionizes the way organizations create applications through low-code and no-code development. It enables users to build intelligent applications by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, thereby streamlining the app development process and enhancing business operations. The tool is integrated with Microsoft Power Apps, allowing users to design applications that can quickly modernize legacy systems, improve data management, and enhance user experiences.

With AI Builder, users can start their app development journey from various inputs, such as tables, sketches, sentences, or even their own code. This flexibility allows organizations to tailor solutions to their specific needs while significantly reducing the time and effort typically required for application development.

Features

AI Builder is equipped with a range of features designed to enhance the app development experience and improve overall productivity. Below are some of the key features:

AI-Powered Development

• Copilot Assistance: Users can describe the app they want to create, and AI Builder's Copilot feature assists in designing it. This includes making edits, adding automation, and writing code, all guided by AI suggestions.
• AI-Infused Applications: The platform allows for the creation of applications that integrate AI capabilities, enabling smarter functionalities such as predictive analytics and natural language processing.

Enterprise-Grade Governance

• Robust Security: AI Builder ensures that applications built are secure and compliant with enterprise standards, making it suitable for organizations of all sizes.
• Data Management: The tool supports connected and secure data management, allowing users to work with various data sources seamlessly.

Custom Code Development

• Flexibility in Development: For developers who prefer to write custom code, AI Builder allows for the incorporation of unique code solutions alongside low-code features, catering to diverse development needs.

Data Model Creation

• Building Data Models: Users can create and edit data models easily, with the help of AI suggestions, simplifying the development process and enhancing productivity.

Mobile App Development

• Robust Mobile Solutions: AI Builder enables the creation of mobile applications that are responsive and user-friendly, ensuring that users can access applications on various devices.

Simplified Development Process

• Starting from Scratch: Users have the option to start their projects from scratch or utilize existing data, sketches, or sentences, making the development process more efficient.

Use Cases

AI Builder can be applied across various industries and business functions, providing tailored solutions to meet specific needs. Here are some prominent use cases:

Finance

• Budgeting and Forecasting: Organizations can quickly develop applications that streamline budgeting processes, generate forecasts, and create comprehensive financial reports.
• Data Analysis: Financial institutions can utilize AI Builder to analyze large datasets, providing insights that drive informed decision-making.

Sales and Marketing

• Connecting Disparate Systems: AI Builder allows for the integration of various sales tools and product information systems, enabling instant notifications and mobile access for sales teams.
• Campaign Management: Marketing teams can create applications that facilitate campaign tracking and performance analytics, helping to optimize marketing strategies.

Human Resources

• Employee Engagement: HR departments can design user-friendly applications that promote employee connectivity, data tracking, and information sharing.
• Onboarding Solutions: AI Builder can be used to develop applications that streamline the onboarding process for new employees, enhancing their experience and integration into the company.

Operations

• Inventory Management: Organizations can modernize their inventory management systems through applications built with AI Builder, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
• Auditing Processes: The tool can transform auditing processes, making them more efficient and less time-consuming.

Frontline Workers

• Efficiency Boost: AI Builder provides frontline workers and managers with the necessary applications to enhance productivity, whether they are using desktops, mobile devices, or shared devices.
• Integration with Microsoft Teams: Applications built with AI Builder can be integrated into Microsoft Teams, allowing for seamless collaboration and communication.

Pricing

AI Builder offers flexible pricing plans to accommodate different user needs and organizational sizes. Below are the main pricing options available:

Developer Plan

• Cost: Free
• Features: Build and test unlimited applications across three environments, allowing users to experiment before transitioning to production.

Power Apps Premium

• Cost: $20.00 per user/month
• Features: Enables licensed users to build, modernize, deploy, and run unlimited applications, providing access to advanced features and capabilities.

This pricing structure allows organizations to choose a plan that best fits their development needs and budget, with the option to start for free before committing to a paid plan.

Comparison with Other Tools

When comparing AI Builder with other low-code development platforms, several unique selling points set it apart:

Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem

AI Builder is part of the Microsoft Power Platform, which means it integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products such as Azure, Dynamics 365, and Microsoft Teams. This integration enhances functionality and provides users with a comprehensive suite of tools for app development and management.

AI Capabilities

While many low-code platforms offer basic development features, AI Builder stands out due to its robust AI capabilities. The inclusion of AI-driven suggestions, predictive analytics, and natural language processing allows users to create smarter applications that can adapt to user needs.

Enterprise-Grade Governance

AI Builder prioritizes security and compliance, making it suitable for organizations that require strict governance measures. Its enterprise-grade governance features ensure that applications built on the platform adhere to industry standards and regulations.

Developer Efficiency

AI Builder significantly reduces app development time, with reports indicating a 50% reduction in development time compared to traditional methods. This efficiency is crucial for organizations looking to innovate quickly and stay competitive in their respective markets.

Proven ROI

According to studies, organizations using AI Builder have reported a 206% return on investment (ROI) over three years, with a payback period of less than six months. This financial advantage makes AI Builder an attractive option for businesses looking to maximize their investment in app development.

FAQ

How much does Power Apps cost?

Power Apps offers a Developer Plan for free, allowing users to build and test unlimited applications. The Power Apps Premium plan is available at $20.00 per user/month.

Do I need a paid license to build apps?

No, users can start building apps for free using the Developer Plan, which allows for experimentation and testing before moving to a paid plan.

How do I keep up with the latest announcements?

Users can stay updated with the latest announcements and product updates by following the Power Apps blog and participating in the community forums.

How is data stored in Power Apps?

Data in Power Apps is stored securely, with options for integration with various data sources, ensuring that users can manage their data effectively while adhering to security standards.

Does low code promote shadow IT and introduce security and governance problems?

AI Builder incorporates enterprise-grade governance features to mitigate risks associated with shadow IT. Organizations can maintain control and oversight of applications built on the platform, ensuring compliance with security protocols.

Is low-code development replacing professional developers?

Low-code development platforms like AI Builder are designed to empower both professional developers and non-technical users. While they streamline the development process, they do not replace the need for professional developers, who can still create complex applications and provide valuable expertise.

In conclusion, AI Builder is a transformative tool that enhances the app development process through its AI capabilities, enterprise-grade governance, and integration with the Microsoft ecosystem. With its flexible pricing plans and diverse use cases, it is well-suited for organizations looking to innovate and improve their operational efficiency.