Power Platform Community Forum Thread Details

I have a very simple app created from an Excel table. I want it to sync, so if changes are made to the excel table, if i refresh in PowerApps i'll see the updated data. Sounds simple but i can't seem to make it work.

Part of what i'm looking for is - is there a difference with importing data from Excel and syncing with Excel?

Categories:

Building Power Apps

Hi @Bshutt,

Yes. There is a difference.

Let’s explore the difference between importing data from Excel and syncing with Excel:

Importing Data from Excel:
- Importing involves bringing data from an external source (such as an Excel file) into your current workbook.
- When you import data, it creates a snapshot of the data at that moment. Any changes made to the original source won’t automatically reflect in your workbook.
- You can import data using features like Power Query or simply copying and pasting.
Syncing with Excel:
- Syncing establishes a live connection between your workbook and the external data source.
- Changes made to the original source (e.g., an Excel table) are automatically reflected in your workbook.
- To achieve syncing, you can use linked data (which maintains a connection) or embedded data (which creates a copy).

Now, let’s focus on your app:

If you want real-time updates when changes occur in your Excel table, consider syncing the data using linked data or embedded data.
PowerApps can work with both imported and synced data, but syncing ensures dynamic updates.

Feel free to ask if you need further assistance! 😊👍

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Thanks,

Robu1.