Fix: CoE Starter Kit Error After August 2025 Update

Hey everyone! It looks like we've got a bit of a snag with the CoE Starter Kit after the August 2025 update. Specifically, the "Env Request | Create Approved Environment" flow is throwing an error, and we're going to dive deep into how to fix it. This guide is designed to help you troubleshoot this issue, understand the root cause, and get your environments up and running smoothly again.

Understanding the Issue

After upgrading to the August 2025 version of the CoE Starter Kit, many users have reported that the "Env Request | Create Approved Environment" flow is failing. The error message popping up is: "The request entity's media type 'text/plain' is not supported for this resource." This can be quite frustrating, especially when everything was working perfectly before the update. To really understand what’s going on, let’s break down the error and the flow itself.

The error message tells us that there’s a mismatch in the expected and received data format. In simpler terms, the flow is sending data in a text/plain format, but the receiving end is expecting something else, like application/json. This often happens when there’s a configuration issue or a change in the API requirements after an update. This is a critical issue because it directly impacts the environment provisioning process, which is a core function of the CoE Starter Kit. Without a properly functioning environment creation flow, teams can face significant delays and roadblocks in their development and deployment pipelines.

The "Env Request | Create Approved Environment" flow is triggered when an environment creation request is approved. Its primary job is to automate the process of setting up a new environment based on the approved request. This involves several steps, such as configuring the environment settings, allocating resources, and setting up security permissions. When the flow fails, it means that the automated environment creation process grinds to a halt, which can lead to a backlog of requests and increased manual effort. This not only slows down the overall process but also introduces the potential for human error, making it essential to resolve the issue quickly and effectively.

Symptoms and Initial Checks

Okay, so you've hit this error. What do you do next? First, let's confirm the symptoms to ensure we're tackling the right problem. The main symptom is, of course, the failure of the "Env Request | Create Approved Environment" flow. This flow is a critical part of the Core solution within the CoE Starter Kit. You'll likely see this error after you've changed the status of an environment creation request to “approved.” Once triggered, the flow should automatically start the environment creation process, but instead, it throws the media type error.

To start troubleshooting, let’s run through a few initial checks. These checks will help us narrow down the possible causes and make the resolution process smoother. First, double-check your solution version. The issue has been reported in version 4.50.3, so if you’ve recently upgraded to this version or later, it’s highly likely that this is the culprit. Knowing your version helps ensure that you’re applying the correct fixes and workarounds. You can find the solution version in the Power Platform admin center under the Solutions tab. Make sure you’re looking at the Core solution, as that’s where the relevant flows reside.

Next, review the flow run history. This is where you’ll find detailed information about the flow’s execution, including the exact steps that failed and any error messages. In Power Automate, navigate to the flow and check the “Runs” section. Look for the failed runs and dive into the details. The error message, "The request entity's media type 'text/plain' is not supported for this resource," will give you a clear indication that you’re facing the same issue. Examining the input and output data of each step can also provide clues about where the problem lies. For example, you might find that a specific action is sending data in the wrong format.

Finally, verify your connection references. The CoE Starter Kit relies on various connections to services like Dataverse, Power Automate, and Office 365. If any of these connections are misconfigured or have expired credentials, it can lead to flow failures. Go to the Solution in Power Apps, then check each connection reference to ensure they are valid and properly configured. A common mistake is having an expired connection that needs to be re-authenticated. Validating these connections early can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. These initial checks are essential to ensure we're on the right track and to gather the necessary information for more advanced troubleshooting.

Diving Deeper: Root Cause Analysis

Alright, guys, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what's causing this issue. The error message, “The request entity's media type 'text/plain' is not supported for this resource,” gives us a solid clue. It suggests that the data being sent in the flow isn’t in the format that the receiving endpoint expects. Typically, APIs and connectors in Power Automate prefer data in JSON format (application/json), which is a structured and easily parseable format.

So, why is the flow sending text/plain instead? This often boils down to how data is being transformed or passed between actions within the flow. After the August 2025 update, there might have been changes in how certain connectors handle data or how the data transformations are configured. For example, an action that used to automatically format data as JSON might now be sending it as plain text. This can happen due to updates in the connector itself or changes in the underlying API that it interacts with.

Another potential cause is an incorrect configuration in one of the flow actions. It's possible that an action is explicitly set to send data as text/plain, either through a configuration setting or by using an expression that inadvertently converts the data to plain text. This can occur if there are manual data transformations or custom expressions within the flow that are not correctly handling the data format. To find these misconfigurations, you’ll need to meticulously review each action in the flow, paying close attention to the input and output data, as well as any settings related to data formatting.

Changes in the Dataverse environment can also play a role. If there have been updates or modifications to the Dataverse schema or the way data is stored, it could affect how the flow retrieves and processes information. For example, if a field that used to store JSON data is now storing plain text, it could cause the flow to send the wrong format. To investigate this, you’ll need to examine the Dataverse tables and fields that the flow interacts with, ensuring that the data types and formats are consistent with what the flow expects.

By methodically investigating these areas, we can pinpoint the exact root cause of the issue. This will not only help us fix the immediate problem but also prevent similar issues from cropping up in the future. It’s like being a detective, but instead of solving a crime, we’re solving a flow failure. Let's keep digging!

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Okay, guys, let’s roll up our sleeves and get practical. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve the “Env Request | Create Approved Environment” flow failure. We’ll walk through each step methodically, ensuring we cover all the bases.

Step 1: Isolate the Failing Action

The first step is to identify which action within the flow is causing the error. Go to the flow run history and examine the failed run. Power Automate will highlight the action that threw the error, making it easier to spot. Click on the failed action to view its details, including the input and output data. This will give you a clear picture of what’s going on right before the error occurs. Look closely at the data being sent by this action. Is it in the expected format? Is there any indication that the data is being converted to text/plain?

Step 2: Review Action Input and Output

Once you’ve identified the failing action, dive deeper into its configuration. Check the input and output data of the action. Pay special attention to any expressions or data transformations being used. Sometimes, a small mistake in an expression can lead to incorrect data formatting. For example, an expression that uses the string() function might inadvertently convert data to plain text. Compare the input and output schemas to see if there are any discrepancies. If the output is text/plain when it should be application/json, you’ve likely found the culprit.

Step 3: Check Connection Configurations

Misconfigured or expired connections can also cause issues. Verify that all the connections used by the flow are properly configured and authenticated. Go to the Power Platform admin center and check the status of the connections. Ensure that the credentials are valid and that the connections have the necessary permissions. If a connection has expired, you’ll need to re-authenticate it. A common mistake is overlooking a connection that was working fine but has since expired due to password changes or other security policies.

Step 4: Inspect Data Transformations

Data transformations are a common source of errors in flows. Review any actions that transform data, such as the “Compose” action or actions that use expressions. Look for any transformations that might be converting the data to text/plain. For instance, if you’re using the string() function on a JSON object, it will convert the object to a plain text string. Instead, you should use functions like json() or parseJson() to handle JSON data correctly. Pay close attention to any custom expressions you’ve added, as these are often the source of subtle bugs.

Step 5: Test with Sample Data

To isolate the issue further, try running the failing action with sample data. This can help you determine if the problem is with the data itself or with the action’s configuration. Use static data that you know should work, and see if the action processes it correctly. If the action works with sample data but fails with the actual data from the flow, it suggests that the issue is related to the data being passed into the action. This could indicate a problem with an upstream action or with the data in Dataverse.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to pinpoint the exact cause of the error and take the necessary steps to fix it. Remember, patience is key when troubleshooting. Take your time, review each step carefully, and you’ll get there.

Solutions and Workarounds

Alright, let's talk solutions. Now that we've dug into the problem and know the potential causes, what can we actually do to fix the "Env Request | Create Approved Environment" flow? Here are some effective solutions and workarounds you can try.

1. Explicitly Set Content Type to application/json

One of the most common fixes for this issue is to explicitly set the content type of the request to application/json. In the failing action, look for settings that allow you to specify the content type. This is often found in the “Headers” section of the action’s configuration. Add a header with the key Content-Type and the value application/json. This tells the receiving endpoint that the data is in JSON format, which is the preferred format for most APIs and connectors.

This is especially crucial if you suspect that an action is defaulting to text/plain. By explicitly setting the content type, you ensure that the data is sent in the correct format, regardless of the default behavior. It’s a simple yet effective way to resolve media type errors.

2. Use the json() Function

If you’re dealing with data transformations, the json() function is your best friend. This function ensures that data is properly formatted as JSON. If you have an action that outputs a plain text string representing JSON data, use the json() function to convert it to a JSON object. For example, if you have a variable named PlainTextData that contains JSON data as a string, you can use the expression json(variables('PlainTextData')) to convert it to a JSON object.

This is particularly useful when you’re working with data from Dataverse, as the data might not always be in the format you expect. Using the json() function helps ensure that the data is correctly formatted before being sent to other actions or services.

3. Parse JSON Data with parseJson()

Sometimes, you might need to parse JSON data that’s embedded within a string. The parseJson() function is designed for this purpose. It takes a string containing JSON data and converts it into a JSON object that you can easily work with in your flow. This is helpful when you’re receiving data from an external service or an action that returns a JSON string.

For example, if you have a string variable named JsonString containing JSON data, you can use the expression parseJson(variables('JsonString')) to parse it into a JSON object. This allows you to access the individual properties and values within the JSON data, making it much easier to use in subsequent actions.

4. Review and Adjust Data Mappings

Incorrect data mappings can also lead to formatting issues. Carefully review the mappings between actions to ensure that data is being passed correctly. Pay attention to the data types and formats of the input and output fields. If you’re mapping a string field to a JSON field, for example, you might need to use the json() function to ensure the data is compatible.

Data mappings are often a source of subtle errors, so it’s worth taking the time to double-check them. Make sure that each field is mapped to the correct destination and that any necessary data transformations are applied.

5. Recreate the Connection

If you’ve checked the connection configurations and everything seems to be in order, try recreating the connection. Sometimes, a connection can become corrupted or misconfigured, even if it appears to be valid. Deleting and recreating the connection can resolve these underlying issues.

To recreate a connection, go to the Power Platform admin center, find the connection in question, and delete it. Then, go back to your flow and add the connection again, providing the necessary credentials. This ensures that the connection is fresh and properly configured.

By applying these solutions and workarounds, you should be able to resolve the “Env Request | Create Approved Environment” flow failure. Remember to test your changes thoroughly to ensure that the flow is working as expected.

Preventing Future Issues

Okay, we've tackled the immediate problem, but let's think long-term. How can we prevent this kind of issue from popping up again after future updates? Prevention is always better than cure, right? Here are some strategies to help you keep your CoE Starter Kit running smoothly.

1. Thoroughly Test Updates in a Non-Production Environment

This is the golden rule of any system update. Before rolling out an update to your production environment, always test it in a non-production (or sandbox) environment first. This allows you to identify potential issues and resolve them without disrupting your live operations. Create a replica of your production environment, apply the update there, and then run through your critical flows and processes to ensure everything is working as expected.

Testing in a non-production environment gives you a safe space to experiment and troubleshoot. You can try different solutions, adjust configurations, and generally poke around without worrying about breaking anything that matters. This proactive approach can save you a lot of headaches in the long run.

2. Stay Updated on Known Issues and Release Notes

Microsoft regularly publishes release notes and known issues for the CoE Starter Kit and its components. Make it a habit to review these documents before applying any updates. This will give you a heads-up about potential problems and any recommended workarounds. The release notes often include information about changes that might affect your existing flows and processes, so it’s crucial to stay informed.

By staying on top of the official documentation, you’ll be better prepared to handle updates and avoid unexpected issues. It’s like having a roadmap that guides you through the update process.

3. Implement a Change Management Process

A well-defined change management process is essential for maintaining the stability of your Power Platform environment. This process should include steps for planning, testing, and deploying changes, as well as rollback procedures in case something goes wrong. Having a formal process in place ensures that updates are applied in a controlled and methodical manner.

Your change management process should also include communication protocols. Make sure that all stakeholders are informed about upcoming changes and any potential impacts. This helps to minimize surprises and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

4. Monitor Flow Runs Regularly

Regular monitoring of your flows can help you catch issues early, before they escalate into major problems. Set up alerts and notifications to be informed about flow failures or other anomalies. Power Automate provides built-in monitoring tools that you can use to track the performance of your flows. You can also use Power BI to create custom dashboards and reports to visualize your flow data.

By monitoring your flows, you can identify patterns and trends that might indicate underlying issues. This proactive approach allows you to address problems before they impact your users.

5. Document Your Configurations and Customizations

Good documentation is invaluable for troubleshooting and maintaining your CoE Starter Kit. Document your configurations, customizations, and any workarounds you’ve implemented. This will make it easier to understand how your environment is set up and how to resolve issues when they arise.

Your documentation should include details about your flows, connections, data mappings, and any other relevant information. It’s also a good idea to document the steps you’ve taken to troubleshoot past issues. This will serve as a valuable reference for future troubleshooting efforts.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of encountering issues after updates and ensure the long-term stability of your CoE Starter Kit. It's all about being proactive and prepared!

Conclusion

Alright, guys, we’ve covered a lot of ground! We've dived deep into troubleshooting the “Env Request | Create Approved Environment” flow failure in the CoE Starter Kit after the August 2025 update. We've walked through the symptoms, root causes, step-by-step troubleshooting, solutions, and prevention strategies. Hopefully, you now feel equipped to tackle this issue head-on.

Remember, the key to successful troubleshooting is a methodical approach. Start by understanding the error message, isolate the failing action, and then systematically investigate the potential causes. Don't be afraid to dig into the details and experiment with different solutions. And most importantly, document your findings so you can refer back to them in the future.

By following the steps and strategies outlined in this guide, you can not only resolve the current issue but also prevent similar problems from occurring down the road. Staying proactive and informed is the best way to keep your CoE Starter Kit running smoothly and efficiently.

Thanks for sticking with me through this troubleshooting journey! If you have any further questions or run into other issues, don't hesitate to reach out to the community or consult the official documentation. Happy flowing, everyone!