Microsoft Innovation Podcast

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVMFULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/657What happens when a seasoned ERP advisor with over two decades of experience achieves MVP status? Join us as we explore the intriguing journey of Robb Delprado from CPA to a leader in Dynamics 365 and discuss the vibrant user community supporting Business Central. His insights highlight the importance of community, the evolution of accounting software, and the future of ERP solutions. This episode sheds light on how platforms like Microsoft Business Central and innovative ISVs are revolutionizing business productivity.  TAKEAWAYS• Rob shares his journey from CPA to ERP advisor • The significance of community in Dynamics 365 • Exploring advancements in accounting processes • Challenges with electronic invoicing in the current landscape • The role of ISVs in enhancing ERP solutions • Insights into hardware integration in ERP systems • Rob’s path to becoming an MVP and its impact OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVPSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVMFULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/656  The future of AI integration is rapidly evolving, bringing with it a new spectrum of legal responsibilities. From developing tools like a Power BI dashboard to analyze AI strategies to tackling the profound shifts in AI policy in the UK and EU, we explore the myriad opportunities and challenges this landscape presents.    This episode dives into the newly introduced AI laws across Europe, their implications for businesses, and the critical examination of thinking in technological contexts. Ana Welch and Chris Huntingford discuss the confluence of regulation, innovation, and ethical considerations in AI development while emphasizing the need for rigorous legal frameworks.TAKEAWAYS• Exploration of European AI laws and governance • Importance of critical thinking in AI and technology • Discussion on the implications of the UK's AI playbooks • The evolving responsibility of developers in AI deployment • Need for legal oversight and responsible data handling • Emphasizing customer trust in the digital ageMicrosoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVMFULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/655 Explore the frontier of Mega Apps on Microsoft's Power Platform with our esteemed guest, Charlie Phipps-Bennett, the delivery director of Synapse, who brings invaluable insights from his journey of co-founding Zaptica to its transformative merger with Synapse. Learn how Charlie's strategic focus on the legal and construction sectors, paired with savvy marketing, quickly landed high-profile clients like one of the world’s largest construction companies. Beyond the boardroom, Charlie’s passion for cars and adventure adds a personal flair to our conversation, making this episode both enlightening and engaging.  TAKEAWAYS• Exploring the concept of Mega Apps for enterprise solutions  • Importance of focusing on specific industries like legal and construction  • Strategies for quick growth through marketing efforts  • Case studies of a law firm and Skanska’s global implementation  • Addressing challenges in data management and accessibility  • Significance of UX/UI design in promoting user adoption  • Treating Power Apps projects as a standard software development lifecycle • Learn about smart licensing and great user design with AI features. • The key tools - SQL, Dataverse, and Figma are essential for powerful and well-designed apps. • Building vital Power Platform apps requires strong disaster recovery and clear documentation. Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

George Grammatikos, a cloud integrator and Microsoft MVP from Greece, shares his inspiring journey from family traditions and Greek cuisine to a tech career. He discusses the evolution of remote work and the benefits it brings. George delves into the importance of low-code tools like Power Apps, making tech accessible for all. He also reveals his aspirations towards AI trends, emphasizing the synergy of development and business applications at the intersection of innovation.

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/653How can incorporating AI revolutionize the world of podcasting? Join us for an engaging discussion with Phil Topness from the Microsoft Power Platform Customer Advisory Team and Simo Slaoui, founder of One Man Shot. Together, we peel back the layers of PowerCat Live, an innovative podcast that marries technology and storytelling. Phil Topness takes us on a journey through the creation of PowerCat Live, initiated by Saurabh Pant, while Simo reveals his creative techniques for elevating production quality using advanced equipment like DSLR cameras and teleprompters. Delve into the dynamic evolution of the show as it transitions into a multimedia experience, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. TAKEAWAYS• Discussing the origin and vision of PowerCat Live • Insights on technical setups and the role of Riverside • Emphasizing the importance of dynamic audience engagement • Overview of the episode planning and content strategy • Exploring the post-production process and editing intricacies • Highlighting the balance between information and entertainment • Noteworthy comments on the future of podcasting with AI integrationsMicrosoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/652   Join Parvez Ghumra as he explores his journey as a Microsoft MVP from Leicester, UK. His passion for the Power Platform and Dynamics 365 CE development is shaped by strong family values, a love for travel—especially his mini pilgrimage to Mecca—and a spicy hobby of chili growing. Parvez reflects on the evolution of CRM deployment tools, from manual XML to modern no-code solutions like Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions, while acknowledging challenges with tools like Package Deployer. Alongside his insights, Mark also shares his own path to MVP recognition, emphasizing the power of community support in driving personal and professional growth. TAKEAWAYS• The role of family in professional development • Travel experiences influencing personal and professional growth • Transition from bespoke development to Dynamics 365 • Importance of Application Lifecycle Management in software delivery • Shift from SDK to low-code solutions in modern development • The value of community support in achieving the MVP statusMicrosoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/651 Sunil Kumar shares his journey as a lead architect in the Microsoft Power Platform space, discussing the unique tech landscape in the UAE, challenges with advisory roles, and the growing embrace of low-code solutions. The conversation delves into Sunil’s career transformation with Microsoft’s Power Platform, from SharePoint to Power Apps and Power Automate, highlighting key projects like a COVID tracking app. He also explores Power Platform integrations, licensing complexities, and innovative solutions using ServiceNow and DocuSign. Packed with insights for tech enthusiasts and professionals alike, this episode explores efficiency, innovation, and the evolving tech landscape.TAKEAWAYS• Exploring the opportunity landscape in the UAE tech sector • Understanding community dynamics within the Power Platform in the UAE • The growing importance of AI investment in the region • Sunil’s transition from SharePoint to Power Platform solutions • The significance of integration with third-party applications • Providing clarity on licensing within Power Platform use cases • Emphasizing security versus costs in solution planningMicrosoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/650  Discover the fascinating blend of tech expertise and personal passions with Brad Prendergast, an MVP from the USA who has left a lasting impact in the Microsoft Dynamics community. With over 20 years of experience, Brad not only shares insights into Dynamics NAV and D365 Business Central but also invites us into his world of culinary adventures and landscape photography. Listen in as he talks about mastering the art of smoking food using a Traeger grill, where everything from meats to pizza becomes a smoky masterpiece. Coupled with his love for capturing breathtaking landscapes through the lens of his Sony camera, Brad’s story is a testament to how hobbies enrich professional life. TAKEAWAY• Brad has over 20 years of experience in the Microsoft Dynamics ecosystem. • Outlines his journey towards becoming an MVP - He became an MVP through active participation in the Business Central community. • Brad highlights the importance of community engagement in his professional journey.• Gives tips for preparing compelling presentations  • Explains the dynamics of co-presenting at events  • Reflects on his passion and its importance in success • Photography is a significant hobby for Brad, focusing on landscape photography. • Preparation for speaking engagements involves choosing topics he is passionate about. • Co-presenting allows for a dynamic interaction and better audience engagement. • Brad believes in the human factor in technology implementations. • He enjoys the process of sharing knowledge and helping others succeed.  OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://www.90daymc.com/ Support the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/649   This episode combines personal stories and insights about establishing effective routines to enhance health, productivity, and well-being. Our hosts explore various approaches, such as the importance of morning rituals, understanding chronotypes, and leveraging technology to support personal health regimens.  TAKEAWAY• Discussing the importance of morning routines • Mark's regimen inclusive of Celtic Sea salt and AI health tracking • Anna's exploration of her own healthy lifestyle adaptations • The group discusses the significance of hydration and nutrition in daily routines. • Will's strategies for digital detox and environmental management • Emphasizing understanding individual circumstances for sustainability • Encouraging adaptive routines reflecting personal needs and challenges • The conversation touches on the role of technology in enhancing health routines. • The episode concludes with a discussion on the impact of environment on personal growth and productivity. Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/648   Join us as BJ Biernatowski shares his extensive experience in business process management and automation, focusing on Nordstrom’s journey toward increased efficiency and value creation through technology. Key insights include the evolution of Nordstrom's automation strategy, the importance of aligning with business objectives for effective ROI measurements, and the transformative role of AI in the future of process management. This episode promises a blend of personal passion and professional mastery, offering listeners a fresh perspective on driving transformation through innovative process improvement.   TAKEAWAYS• BJ's background and journey to Microsoft  • The significance of food and family in BJ's life  • Nordstrom’s vision for enterprise-scale automation  • The transition from K2 to Microsoft's Power Platform  • Understanding ROI in business process management  • The importance of Business Value Assessments in transformation  • Future trends in BPM and the role of AI Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith