Microsoft adds SPA templates to Power Pages to speed website development

Microsoft has rolled out new single-page application (SPA) templates for Power Pages to give developers a faster way to create websites without having to build every page and component from scratch.

The new templates are available through the Power Pages plugin for GitHub Copilot CLI and Claude Code. Developers can use the plugin's /create-site skill to describe the type of website they want to build, according to an October 13 announcement. The tool then recommends a template that matches their needs.

Developers can check out the suggested template and determine whether to use it or start from scratch. If they opt to use the template, the plugin takes care of most of the setup, including importing the Microsoft Dataverse solution, uploading the site, and adding sample data.

Microsoft said the new approach can reduce the time it takes for a developer to create a website from more than an hour to just minutes. It can also lower the cost of using AI tools during development.

For example, Microsoft said building its 311 Citizen Services Portal from scratch can use a lot of AI credits, while using a template costs just a few dollars in AI credits to get started.

Two templates available initially

Microsoft is initially offering two templates, both built using React.

The 311 Citizen Services Portal is designed for local governments and other public agencies. Residents can use it to report problems such as potholes, check the status of service requests, view city service maps, and find information about local services.