Microsoft Innovation Podcast

FULL SHOW NOTES  https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/613 Carike Botha, a vibrant software development consultant from South Africa, joins us to share her fascinating journey within the Power Apps community. From her unexpected pivot from marine biology to technology, Carike's story is filled with inspiration, cultural richness, and technological innovation. Discover how the Power Platform Bootcamp has sparked a new wave of enthusiasm in South Africa, and be captivated by the influential roles played by figures like Chris Huntingford in the broader tech realm. As Carike opens up about her passions for religious discussions and her love for South African and Korean cuisine, she paints a lively picture of the multicultural evolution happening both in her homeland and abroad.  Carike Botha, a vibrant software development consultant from South Africa, joins us to share her fascinating journey within the Power Apps community. From her unexpected pivot from marine biology to technology, Carike's story is filled with inspiration, cultural richness, and technological innovation. Discover how the Power Platform Bootcamp has sparked a new wave of enthusiasm in South Africa, and be captivated by the influential roles played by figures like Chris Huntingford in the broader tech realm. As Carike opens up about her passions for religious discussions and her love for South African and Korean cuisine, she paints a lively picture of the multicultural evolution happening both in her homeland and abroad.We also explore her transition from a SharePoint administrator to a Power Platform specialist, highlighting her knack for creating custom solutions across various sectors. You'll learn about the essential tools she uses daily, including ChatGPT, and the prominence of Microsoft's brand in the South African market. The episode takes a thoughtful turn as we discuss the importance of skills development, certifications, and security in tech, especially concerning business deals with financial institutions. With a light-hearted closure, Carike shares her travel experiences, dreams, and the cultural nuances that come with international travel, leaving you inspired to explore both technology and the world.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 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/612Is trust really the missing ingredient in the recipe for successful business relationships, especially in the world of tech and AI? Join Ana Welch, Andrew Welch, Chris Huntingford, and William Dorrington as they unpack this provocative question and explore the intricate nature of trust within business interactions. Drawing from Stephen Covey's "The Speed of Trust," they promise to reshape your understanding of how trust—or the lack of it—impacts every deal and partnership. With a spotlight on the often fraught dynamics between Microsoft partners and their customers, they reveal why today's savvy business audience scrutinizes every word and motive more than ever before. Through consistent, transparent interactions, they can build the trust that is crucial for confidence in technological advancements.Delve into the complexities of Microsoft's sales and partnership strategies and uncover the real reasons behind the tension in aligning interests with their partners. Contrast this with Salesforce's model, and you'll soon see why navigating these corporate giants can feel like a complex dance.  The discussion also offers a glimpse into the future of AI in business, stressing the importance of delivering true value rather than just technological upgrades. They reflect on personal experiences with tools like Copilot and Azure AI Studio, offering insights into how these innovations can be leveraged effectively. Whether it's managing large-scale AI projects or maintaining momentum in personal endeavours, this episode provides valuable insights to help you thrive in today's tech ecosystem.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/611 What if the tools you use every day could be seamlessly integrated to transform federal operations? Join us as we welcome Ed Williams, a Senior Solutions Architect at AndWorks, who shares his extraordinary journey from soldier to Power Platform expert. With a passion for revolutionizing data management and reporting, Ed unveils how Power BI and CRM systems are enhancing efficiency within the federal government. He also offers a glimpse into his personal life, filled with family adventures in Maryland and a love for Old Bay seasoning. Embark on this exploration of how strategic applications on the Microsoft Power Platform are reshaping the landscape of enterprise deployments.Ever wondered how complex data security needs are met with the Power Platform? We tackle this and more, delving into the shift from the platform being perceived as a tool for citizen developers to one capable of addressing intricate data concerns. Ed and I highlight the importance of leveraging built-in features like auditing and security controls, and the hurdles of licensing management. We share practical insights into automating license allocation using auto-claim policies and structuring licenses around O365 teams for smooth transitions in large enterprises. Our discussion promises to enrich your understanding of security and governance within the Power Platform ecosystem.Discover the power of fusion teams working in harmony to streamline project management with the Power Platform. We explore how multidisciplinary teams can leverage custom-built tools to manage workflows and integrate various applications effectively. From fostering collaboration among developers, analysts, and change managers to stepping beyond familiar technologies, we underscore the necessity of embracing diverse tools. As we reflect on the evolution from Dynamics CRM to the Power Platform, I emphasize the importance of remaining open-minded to meet complex project needs. Embark on this journey to unlock the full potential of the Power Platform as a transformative connective hub for your enterprise. OTHER RESOURCES:Ed Williams' Blog: Automate The MundaneMicrosoft 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/610 Francis Msangi Masera, a passionate Chief Innovation Officer from Nairobi, Kenya, takes us on a fascinating journey through his career in the tech world. From his initial spark of interest in computers during high school to becoming a Microsoft MVP in 2024, Francis' story is one of dedication and innovation. We explore his transition from being a C-sharp developer to specializing in Navision and Business Central, emphasizing his impactful role in implementing these solutions locally and internationally. With the rising popularity of Business Central and Power Platform in Kenya, especially among SMEs and large organizations, Francis provides valuable insights and shares a glimpse of Nairobi's vibrant culture, including the culinary delight of Nyama Choma.Our conversation shifts to the exciting integration of AI tools like Microsoft's Copilot in Business Central, and how Azure OpenAI service is enhancing functionalities for businesses. Francis sheds light on the importance of prompt engineering in optimizing these technologies, offering practical examples like invoicing with specific item queries. He also shares strategic tips on becoming a Microsoft MVP, emphasizing the significance of community contributions and effective showcasing of work. His experiences, including speaking at events like Experts Live Kenya, highlight his commitment to community engagement and knowledge sharing. Join us to discover how Francis's expertise is helping businesses unleash the full potential of ERP platforms through AI advancements.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.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/609Ever wondered how a seven-day water-only fast might change your life? Join us on the Ecosystems Show as we recount a personal journey through fasting and the unexpected results, including an emergency flight diversion due to a medical incident. We unravel the humorous chaos of maintaining continuity during back-to-back recordings while highlighting the weight loss and wellness insights we gained. As we share our experiences, we delve into the different fasting impacts on men and women, offering valuable considerations for those curious about this wellness trend.Shifting gears, we explore the fascinating realm of AI and technology, focusing on the concept of agentic systems. Imagine AI agents as your personal assistants, navigating complex customer service scenarios with ease, armed with all the relevant information you might need. We compare these intelligent systems to traditional roles like travel agents, pondering how the creators' management styles might shape their decision-making processes. The potential for AI-driven solutions to innovate customer loyalty in commoditized industries is astonishing, as they focus on price optimization over brand fidelity.We tackle the evolution of AI interfaces, drawing attention to controversial practices by companies like Ryanair and Spark. With recent advancements in AI tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft's Copilot, we explore how a unified UI could revolutionize interactions across various enterprise applications. Envision intelligent agents anticipating your needs, managing daily tasks, and even optimizing your grocery shopping experience. As we reflect on the transformative power of AI, our conversation paints a picture of an intriguing future where AI seamlessly integrates into our lives, reshaping software asset management and customer experiences.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/608  Unlock the hidden power of Microsoft Office tools with insights from Jennifer, an Excel virtuoso and owner of Excel and Flourish. Jennifer's journey from Milwaukee brings a refreshing perspective on how foundational tech skills can open doors to tech-centric careers, especially for those looking to transition from physically demanding jobs. Her personal passions for food, family, and travel enrich her approach to simplifying Excel and other tools, making tech more accessible and less intimidating for everyone.Get ready to redefine digital collaboration with an in-depth look at Microsoft Loop and Planner. Discover how these tools seamlessly integrate traditional design methodologies with cutting-edge technology to boost creativity and productivity. We explore how Loop's capabilities enhance communication across platforms like Teams and Whiteboard, while Planner keeps tasks organized, taking cues from the Checklist Manifesto to minimize errors and maximize efficiency. Jennifer also shares insights on Microsoft's ongoing enhancements to their planning tools, aiming to clear the confusion often felt by users.Unleash the full potential of the Microsoft Power Platform with stories of innovation featuring tools like Sway, ClipChamp, and PowerPoint. From crafting visually compelling business proposals with Sway to leveraging ClipChamp's AI-driven transcription for dynamic training videos, these tools are revolutionizing workflows. Jennifer recounts the transformative experiences with Power Automate and Copilot, showcasing seamless integration for heightened productivity. To top it all off, a special guest appearance by an NZ365 Business MVP provides additional insights, making this episode a treasure trove of actionable knowledge and inspiration.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/607   Discover how Anitha  Eswaran, a celebrated digital architect from Sonata Software Europe, has pioneered her journey to being named an MVP in the ERP AI category. With nearly two decades of experience in Microsoft CRM and AXEPTA, Anitha's story is one of transformation as she embraces AI within Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations. She shares her experiences of integrating AI into ERP systems, the evolution of Dynamics F&O with game-changing features like co-pilot, and the AI-driven automation of business processes. Anitha opens up about her blogging journey, inspired by her husband's unwavering dedication, and how her family life, including raising twin boys and experimenting with Indian and UK-inspired vegetarian dishes, intertwines with her thriving career.This episode also casts a spotlight on the technical complexities and triumphs of working globally with Sonata, a Microsoft ERP gold partner. Tune in as we unpack the significance of frameworks like the Application Integration Framework and their role in connecting external systems to ERPs. Anitha's passion for sharing knowledge reflects in her community engagement and blogging, which ultimately garnered her MVP recognition. As we conclude, join me, Mark Smith, also known as the NZ365 guy, in expressing gratitude to Anitha for her invaluable insights into the dynamic world of business applications. This is an episode filled with inspiration and valuable lessons from a stalwart in the tech industry whose journey continues to motivate many.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/NewsLetter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7157714713630396420/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/606Prepare yourself for an eye-opening exploration as we uncover why cybercrime could be the world's third-largest economy. Tune in to hear Ana, Andrew, William, and Chris's exhilaration over Trevor Noah's enlightening talk and Vasu Jakal's captivating cybersecurity panel, where we unravel the staggering statistic of 4,000 cyberattacks per second. Discover the vital importance of zero trust policies and proactive security measures in a world where AI-driven threats are ever-evolving.Imagine a future where AI agents handle tasks with the finesse of seasoned travel experts. Our latest discussion takes you through the evolution of AI from basic automation to the sophisticated orchestration of agents capable of independent action. We dive into the importance of data accuracy to prevent chaos and highlight the potential of orchestrators and agent chaining as powerful tools for optimizing intelligent systems, transforming the way we work.As we navigate the complex waters of Responsible AI, we focus on balancing technology with ethical practices and human elements. Learn about the implementation of Responsible AI waivers and tools like Co-pilot Studio that manage liability and ethical AI deployment. Join us as we contemplate the challenges of managing personal data, the rise of deepfakes, and the broader implications of AI through insights from Kai-Fu Lee's "AI 2041." Our conversation wraps up with a call for feedback and innovation to enhance software estate value, inviting you to be a part of this transformative journey.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/605What parallels can be drawn between marathon training and strategic implementation in a corporate setting? Join us as we unravel this intriguing correlation through the remarkable story of James Connelly, the Power Platform Technical Lead at Network Rail. James opens up about his journey from overcoming a severe head injury in 2021 to participating in the London Marathon for Headway, a brain injury charity. His narrative is one of perseverance and balance, blending a passion for health and fitness with a love for social activities. From savoring the best chicken wings at Chicken George to enjoying trips to Ibiza, James's personal story is both inspiring and relatable. In our conversation, we delve into the world of Network Rail and its integration with the Power Platform, particularly accelerated by the pandemic. James provides insights into managing strategy, governance, and security, emphasizing the importance of proper governance and community building. Discover how Network Rail has empowered its internal makers and developed skilled low-code developers through apprenticeship schemes. Whether you're interested in the technical aspects of the Power Platform or personal tales of resilience, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration for all listeners.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/604 Ever wondered how to successfully juggle a demanding career, freelancing gigs, and personal passions? Join us as we sit down with Marko Totovic, a Partner Technology Strategist from Serbia, who not only excels in his role at Companial but also manages to be an MVP in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform community. Marco shares the secret sauce to balancing his professional and personal lives, including his love for tennis, guitar, and Serbian cuisine. His journey is a masterclass in multitasking, proving that you can indeed have it all without compromising on quality or commitment.  Ever wondered how to successfully juggle a demanding career, freelancing gigs, and personal passions? Join us as we sit down with Marko Totovic, a Partner Technology Strategist from Serbia, who not only excels in his role at Companial but also manages to be an MVP in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform community. Marco shares the secret sauce to balancing his professional and personal lives, including his love for tennis, guitar, and Serbian cuisine. His journey is a masterclass in multitasking, proving that you can indeed have it all without compromising on quality or commitment. Gain insight into the path of becoming an MVP, where Marco offers a transparent look into the ecosystem of freelancing in the Power Platform and Dynamics 365 space. From the joys of sharing knowledge at global conferences to the crucial importance of being upfront about your capabilities, Marco's experiences are both enlightening and inspiring. Whether you're looking to enhance your career, navigate the complexities of freelancing, or simply find better balance in your life, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world stories that promise to resonate deeply with our listeners. OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/Support the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith