Deploying Logic Apps Standard with Multiple Workflows using ARM Templates
Logic Apps Standard offers a powerful platform for building complex and scalable integration workflows. When working with multiple workflows within a single Logic App Standard resource, deploying them effectively using ARM templates becomes crucial for managing infrastructure and automation. This article will guide you through the process of deploying Logic App Standard with multiple workflows using ARM templates.
Understanding the Challenge
Deploying multiple workflows within a single Logic App Standard using ARM templates can seem daunting. While ARM templates provide a structured way to manage Azure resources, integrating multiple workflows within a single resource can require understanding specific syntax and properties.
The Scenario and Initial Code
Let's assume you have two workflows, "Workflow1" and "Workflow2," which you want to deploy within the same Logic App Standard resource. The initial ARM template might look like this:
{
"$schema": "https://schema.management.azure.com/schemas/2019-04-01/deploymentTemplate.json#",
"contentVersion": "1.0.0.0",
"resources": [
{
"type": "Microsoft.Logic/workflows",
"apiVersion": "2019-05-01",
"name": "MyLogicApp",
"location": "westus2",
"properties": {
"kind": "Standard",
"location": "westus2",
"workflows": [
{
"name": "Workflow1",
"properties": {
"definition": {
"$schema": "https://schema.management.azure.com/schemas/2019-05-01/Microsoft.Logic/workflows/workflows.json#",
"contentVersion": "1.0.0.0",
"actions": [] // Workflow1 definition
}
}
},
{
"name": "Workflow2",
"properties": {
"definition": {
"$schema": "https://schema.management.azure.com/schemas/2019-05-01/Microsoft.Logic/workflows/workflows.json#",
"contentVersion": "1.0.0.0",
"actions": [] // Workflow2 definition
}
}
}
]
}
}
]
}
This template defines a Logic App Standard named "MyLogicApp" with two workflows, "Workflow1" and "Workflow2". The workflows array holds the definitions of each workflow.
Adding Insight: Deep Dive into Workflow Definitions
The key to deploying multiple workflows within a single Logic App Standard lies in understanding the workflows array. Each object within this array represents a workflow within the Logic App. The name property identifies the workflow, and the properties object contains its definition, including the workflow's definition property.
Understanding the definition Property:
The definition property is where you define the actual logic of your workflow using the Logic App Standard definition language. This includes specifying triggers, actions, and other workflow components. It's important to ensure the $schema and contentVersion properties are correctly set within the definition property.
Best Practices for Readability and Maintenance
For better readability and maintainability, consider the following:
- Separate Workflow Definitions: To enhance readability and maintainability, it's often recommended to define your workflow definitions in separate files. You can then reference these files within the ARM template using the
templateLinkproperty. - Use Parameters for Workflow Names: Leverage parameters within your ARM template to dynamically set workflow names, allowing for easier configuration and customization.
Additional Considerations
- Versioning: When working with multiple workflows, ensure proper versioning to track changes and manage different deployment stages.
- Dependencies: If your workflows have dependencies, ensure they are handled correctly within the ARM template. Consider using conditional deployment or resource dependencies to manage the order of deployment.
- Testing: Thoroughly test your ARM template to ensure it deploys your multiple workflows as intended.
Conclusion
Deploying Logic App Standard with multiple workflows using ARM templates provides a structured and scalable way to manage your integration workflows. By understanding the workflows array, the definition property, and best practices for template organization, you can effectively deploy complex and sophisticated Logic App Standard solutions.
