Microsoft Innovation Podcast

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/569  What happens when a seasoned .NET developer shifts gears to embrace low-code solutions? Scott Durow, a Power Platform and Cloud Developer Advocate at Microsoft, shares his transformative journey from traditional coding to adopting the Power Platform. We delve into the evolution of Microsoft's business applications and the essential resources needed for professional developers to transition smoothly to Power Platform. Scott also offers a glimpse into his life on the scenic west coast of Canada, highlighting how the natural beauty and outdoor activities inspire his work.We tackle key topics like integrating Power Platform with existing .NET ecosystems in enterprise software development, emphasizing the necessity of developer input even in low-code environments. Scott discusses the platform's extensibility through C# plugins, TypeScript, JavaScript, and custom connectors, making it a robust choice for enterprise solutions. We also explore the concept of anti-patterns and how leveraging higher-level abstractions can simplify complex software architecture, ultimately enhancing development efficiency.In a fascinating case study, we examine a major financial institution in Australia transitioning 60 Pega developers to Power Platform. Scott shares practical advice for overcoming the initial learning curve and maximizing the platform's benefits. We also dive into the roles of software and enterprise architecture, touching on the skepticism enterprise architects may have towards low-code solutions like Power Platform. Wrapping up, we reflect on our engaging conversation with Scott and look forward to more insightful discussions in future episodes. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the Power Platform landscape!This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/568  Curious about what it takes to become a tech MVP? Join us as we sit down with Alireza Eshaghzadeh, a distinguished senior business consultant from Oslo, Norway, whose journey from Iran to Norway is nothing short of inspirational. In this episode, Alireza recounts his educational adventures in Trondheim, where he pursued a master's degree in global production management, leading him to excel in Microsoft Dynamics 365 finance and operations. Along the way, you'll get a glimpse into his personal life, from his passion for Persian, Turkish, and Italian cuisines to his love for football—especially his unique transition from playing forward to goalkeeper. Alireza also shares heartwarming stories about his recent marriage and exciting travels with his wife. But that's not all—Alireza dives deep into his career milestones, starting with a university course that sparked his fascination with inventory management and ERP systems. He reflects on pivotal moments, such as learning to think conceptually and solve processes rather than individual issues, and the value of working within a supportive team. Alireza also discusses how personal relationships have significantly shaped his professional journey. Inspired by Japanese cultural principles, this episode is brimming with valuable insights and lessons for anyone passionate about enterprise resource planning and professional growth. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with a dedicated expert in the field. OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series: How to Become a Microsoft MVP  GitHub: https://github.com/Alireza-Eshaghzadeh  Dynamics user group Norway: https://www.dynug.no/2023/09/04/utnytt-mulighetene-i-forretningsdokumenter/ This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/567  Discover the critical distinctions between solution architects and enterprise architects in today's tech ecosystems with our special guest, Andrew. This episode of the Power Platform Show unpacks the challenges of integrating diverse technologies in Microsoft business applications, Azure, and M365. You'll gain insights into why the concept of being "technology agnostic" is often impractical and how a solid technical grounding is essential for enterprise architects. We also shed light on the pivotal role these architects play in shaping C-level decision-makers' perspectives and the importance of educating them to navigate new technology ecosystems effectively.  Moving forward, we dissect the nuanced interpretation of "best practices" in the ever-changing tech landscape. The conversation reveals how the Power Platform is frequently underestimated by enterprise architects and why a shift in mindset is crucial to unlocking its robust potential. Learn about the seamless integration of Power Platform with Azure Data Platform Services and the necessity of a holistic approach in enterprise architecture. Lastly, we tackle the educational gaps that enterprise architects face and discuss Microsoft's responsibility in providing comprehensive, up-to-date resources for better decision-making. Don't miss this deeply informative episode that promises to equip you with the knowledge to stay ahead in the tech world. This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/566 What happens when a childhood passion for model railroading and computers evolves into a top-tier career in technology? Join us as we sit down with Barret Blake, an Azure Solution Architect from Columbus, Ohio, who was awarded MVP status in 2023. Barret takes us on a journey through his life, sharing personal stories about his family, his love for cooking, and the pivotal moments that led him from a professional developer to a solution architect. You'll hear about the thrilling challenge of re-architecting a startup's application for scalability and cloud deployment, a project that sparked his enthusiasm for designing innovative solutions.Ever wondered how versatile VB apps can be across different environments? Barret shares his insights on deploying VB apps both in the cloud and on older hardware, highlighting the adaptability of Power Automate Desktop. We discuss its seamless integration into Windows 11 and whether Microsoft envisions it for personal or enterprise use. The conversation takes an exciting turn as we explore the future of AI and Copilot, particularly their potential to revolutionize routine tasks and optimize user experiences. From handling emails to predicting user patterns, Barret's perspectives on the maturity and future of AI will captivate tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series: How to Become a Microsoft MVPTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/barretblakeGitHub: https://github.com/barretb   This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/565  Unlock the secrets of enterprise data management with insights from Microsoft’s own Julie Koesmarno, a principal product manager in Dataverse. Julie's extraordinary journey from database enthusiast to MVP, and now a key player at Microsoft, will leave you inspired. From her passion for ice cream and travel to her innovative projects within Charles Lamanna's Business Applications Platform Group, Julie’s story is a compelling blend of personal and professional triumphs.Explore the critical relationship between Copilot AI systems and enterprise data management. Julie sheds light on the concept of 'knowledge' as enterprise data, tackling the challenges and opportunities of integrating Microsoft Graph and Copilot. Learn why robust data housekeeping and security measures are non-negotiable as organizations adopt AI tools, and why grounding AI responses with accurate data is essential for maintaining integrity and governance.Experience a practical demonstration on data modeling and table creation using Copilot. Julie takes us through setting up an environment, designing data models with natural language, and creating a student accommodation review system. She also shares her journey as a female in tech, emphasizing the importance of a supportive team environment and active listening. Julie's reflections on overcoming challenges and fostering diversity offer invaluable lessons for anyone navigating the tech landscape. Tune in for an episode packed with expert advice and inspiring stories!This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/564 Meet Belgium's latest MVP, Anouck Fierens, who brings her infectious enthusiasm for SharePoint, Microsoft Viva, and the Power Platform to our show. We chat about her ascent to MVP status in 2024 and how her journey evolved from developer to low-code/no-code aficionado. Anouck opens up about her personal passions, from her commitment to charity to her love of Italian fare, and even lets us in on why the charming city of Ghent is a must-visit. The conversation then turns to the future of digital workspaces, as Anouck expresses her preference for Viva Connections amidst the unexpected phase-out of Viva Topics, providing valuable insights for those navigating the ever-changing tech landscape.Eager to inspire our listeners to step into the community spotlight, we discuss the impact of sharing knowledge and experiences through content creation. Whether you've been mulling over drafting that first blog post or hitting record on a podcast, I encourage you to let go of the hesitation and embrace the journey. Our community thrives on the diverse voices and stories we each have to share, and there's a wealth of support and feedback to be found. Join us for a conversation that not only celebrates Anouck's achievements but also aims to light that spark within you to contribute, engage, and grow within our vibrant tech community.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ Fusion Talk podcast - https://fusiontalk.be/GitHub - https://github.com/AnouckFThis year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/563Can the Microsoft Power Platform really handle millions of users and support mission-critical implementations? Join us as we challenge the common misconceptions and explore the enterprise-level potential of this powerful tool. In this episode, I'm joined by Rami Mounla, a seasoned solution architect from Wellington, New Zealand. Together, we shed light on the unseen capabilities of the Power Platform, particularly Dynamics 365 applications, and reflect on our experiences in the Dynamics community. We discuss how these platforms are not just for citizen developers but are robust enough to build complex applications for large-scale use.Rami takes us through a fascinating case study of how New Zealand revamped its passport renewal and citizenship application processes. Discover the intricate design and meticulous testing that went into creating a scalable system capable of handling thousands of transactions daily. We talk about the integration of various Microsoft components like Entra, Power Pages, and Power Automate, along with third-party applications for biometric verification. Listen in as we highlight the collaboration with Microsoft FastTrack and the importance of a seamless user experience and secure data handling.Transitioning staff from legacy systems to modern platforms like Dynamics 365 and Power Platform can be a daunting task, but it’s not impossible. We dive into the challenges and strategies for overcoming resistance, the importance of coaching, and the iterative process of refining systems based on user feedback. This episode also covers the comprehensive security features of PowerPages and illustrates how modernizing digital services has significantly enhanced efficiency and reliability, using the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs as a prime example. Join us for an insightful conversation on how embracing the Power Platform can translate to superior public services, better user experiences, and robust security for large-scale implementations.This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/562 From law books to lines of code, tune in to hear Jimmy Zinizopoulos Passeti's fascinating pivot from the legal world into the tech sphere where he thrives as a functional architect. We're joined by this Brazilian MVP, whose love for technology led him to a radical career shift and an MVP award in 2023. His story isn't just about binary and business solutions; it's a tale of following a true calling, sprinkled with the flavours of Brazilian cuisine and the joy of family life.Meet the man behind the tech as Jimmy introduces us to a Brazilian twist on stroganoff you won't find in any cookbook, alongside the classic feijoada that's a must-try on any visit to Brazil. But it's not all about the food; Jimmy also shares how he balances his professional accolades with soccer games and quality time with his kids. His journey is a reminder that life's recipe includes a hearty mix of passion, adaptability, and the savouring of life's simple moments.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ Jimmy’s Quick Links: https://jimmypasseti.com.br/linksrapidos/   This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/561   What drives a digital leader to tackle ultramarathons and sustainability challenges alike? Join us as Rik Irons-Mclean from Microsoft, now based in Sydney after a fascinating journey from Scotland to England, and finally to Australia during lockdown, shares his multifaceted life story. Rik's zest for life, from his family and food to his love for champagne over whiskey, paints a vivid picture of a man dedicated to both his personal passions and professional accomplishments.Discover the compelling cultural shifts Rik experienced moving from Cisco to Microsoft and how these transitions influence his approach to leveraging technology for transformative business strategies. As Chief Technology Officer for Enterprise Commercial in Australia and New Zealand, Rik offers valuable insights into balancing environmental goals with business productivity. Our conversation sheds light on the evolving landscape of sustainability, regulatory compliance, and the myriad opportunities that arise when businesses commit to sustainable practices.Dive deep with us into Microsoft's ambitious sustainability goals, from achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 to striving for carbon negativity by 2050. Rik discusses the intricate challenges of reducing scope three carbon emissions and the transformative role of AI and data in accelerating sustainability solutions. We also explore the collective responsibility of individuals and organizations in fostering a sustainable future, emphasizing the critical need for workforce development and digital literacy. Don't miss this engaging episode as we navigate the path towards environmental stewardship and technological innovation.OTHER RESOURCES:Accelerating AI with Sustainability – A Playbook (microsoft.com)2024 Environmental Sustainability Report (microsoft.com)Closing the Sustainability Skills Gap (microsoft.com)Microsoft home blog: https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/industry/blog/author/rik-irons-mclean/ Author of Book: Orchestrating and Automating Security for the Internet of Things: Delivering Advanced Security Capabilities from Edge to Cloud for IoT 1st Edition, Kindle Edition As a speaker: https://www.futureoilgas.com/speakers/This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!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/560When Enea Licaj, the Power Platform prodigy and culinary wizard from Cologne, graces us with his story, the air buzzes with inspiration. This is the tale of a tech enthusiast who marinated his professional expertise in user adoption and training to become a YouTube sensation. Let Enea take you on a journey through his vibrant hometown, giving you a taste of family life, historic wonders, and how all of these flavours blended into his passion for technology. His anecdotes aren't just about how Power Platform spices up business solutions; they're about the zest of creating content that resonates with people worldwide and the dash of satisfaction from stirring a global community of learners and creators.Paying close attention to the trends in Germany, we uncover the mounting appetite for the Power Platform, as Enea peels back the layers on its impact on local businesses. We're not just talking about any tech wave here; this is a revolution, with tools like Power Automate, Power Apps, and Power BI transforming the way solutions simmer on the digital stove. Enea, with his finger on the pulse of innovation, shares his insights on Copilot's integration into Power BI and the rich, new flavours it brings to data interaction. As he recounts the decision to serve his content in English, we get a generous slice of his career highlights, including a project that proved design isn't just about aesthetics—it's a critical ingredient in solution development. Tune in for an episode that's packed with stories as compelling as they are informative, just like a well-crafted dish that leaves you craving more.This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!Support the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith