TL;DR: Hold static parameters in Parse JSON or Compose instead of Initialize Variable to keep flows readable and preserve loop concurrency.
💡 Challenge
In many Power Automate flows, you might find yourself using the ‘Initialize Variable’ action to store a parameter that never changes throughout the flow. It’s like carrying a heavy toolbox when all you need is a single screwdriver!
✅ Solution
Use ‘Parse JSON’ (or ‘Compose’) to hold static parameters instead of ‘Initialize Variable’. You avoid variables entirely, which keeps your flow readable and, importantly, doesn’t block parallelism inside loops.
🔧 How It’s Done
1. Replace ‘Initialize Variable’
🔸 Swap out the ‘Initialize Variable’ action for ‘Parse JSON’ or ‘Compose’.
2. Set the JSON schema
🔸 Define the JSON schema to match the parameter you want to set.
3. Use in Flow
🔸 Reference the parsed object wherever you would have used the variable.
🎉 Result
By using ‘Parse JSON’ for static parameters, your flow stays clean and its intent is clearer, and you keep the option to run ‘Apply to each’ loops with concurrency enabled.
🌟 Key Advantages
🔸 Clarity: Makes it obvious the parameter is static and won’t change, improving readability.
🔸 Concurrency-friendly: Unlike variables, Parse JSON / Compose don’t force ‘Apply to each’ loops to run sequentially, you can keep parallelism on.
🔸 Best Practices: Reserves variables for values that genuinely change during the run.
🎥 Video Tutorial
🛠️ FAQ
1. When should I use Parse JSON instead of Initialize Variable?
Use Parse JSON (or Compose) for static values that don’t change during execution. Use Initialize Variable only for values you’ll modify while the flow runs.
2. Does Parse JSON reduce my action / API count compared to Initialize Variable?
No. Both are built-in actions and each counts as one Power Platform request. The real benefit is readability and keeping loop concurrency, not fewer API calls.
3. Can I use complex objects with Parse JSON?
Absolutely! Parse JSON excels at handling complex nested objects and arrays, making it perfect for structured static data.
Marcel Lehmann
Microsoft MVP