Microsoft Innovation Podcast

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/553  Embark on a transformative journey through the digital skies with James from Applied Information Sciences as we navigate the often-turbulent realm of cloud adoption. This episode promises to equip you with an understanding of the critical importance of a well-defined strategy when integrating modernization, AI, and cloud services into your business. As we unravel a real-world tale of a client's struggle with trend-chasing absent a roadmap, James and I underscore the need for aligning technological advancements with your company's core objectives to avoid costly missteps. Moreover, we dissect the nuanced relationship between IT departments and executive decision-making, advocating for a pivot from a product-centric mindset to a solution-driven approach that resonates with the actual needs of your organization.In a world where 'adapt or perish' is the new creed, we lay bare the complexities of adopting the Power Platform, a cornerstone of organizational success, yet one that requires a nuanced strategy for seamless integration. We share our encounters with clients battling internal resistance and the strategies we've employed to showcase the true value of incremental investment in technological innovation. Furthermore, we cast a light on the broader evolution of software development, moving from a coding-heavy focus to a problem-solving mindset with the client's needs at the helm. James and I also explore how guiding principles in cloud strategy are not just theoretical but can lead to tangible outcomes like innovation, agility, and security. Tune in for an episode brimming with insights and stories that will not only inform but inspire your journey to cloud excellence.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/552   Siddharth Vaghasia, a true maverick from Pune, India, graces our podcast with tales that chart an inspiring course from a curious commerce student to a Microsoft MVP and the brain behind Pune's thriving tech scene. His journey is a testament to how a flickering interest in computers, kindled during his hostel days, ignited a career that's as illustrious as it is unanticipated. Embracing life's flavors, he reflects on the joy of family with his wife and twin sons, indulges in the shared pleasure of culinary delights, and unwinds with cinema, series, and sports. But there's more than leisure to this story; Siddharth's pivot into the IT realm, culminating in a profound mastery of Microsoft technologies, illustrates the serendipitous blend of passion and opportunity that can define a career.Our conversation explores the entrepreneurial spirit that led Siddharth to co-found Binary Roots, an agency that's sculpting the Microsoft 365 services landscape. Within a span of three years, his leadership has scaled a one-man operation into a 21-strong team, delivering impeccable service across diverse global markets including the US, Australia, Canada, and the UAE. The insights from Siddharth on leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and Upwork as launchpads for growth are gold for any aspiring entrepreneur. Furthermore, he emphasizes the pivotal role community engagement and enduring client relationships play in carving out a remarkable reputation in the industry, evidenced by a staggering job satisfaction rate on Upwork. Tune in to absorb the entrepreneurial wisdom and tech expertise of someone who has triumphantly navigated the intersection of passion and business.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP GitHub: https://github.com/siddharth-vaghasiaSupport 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/551Embark on an enlightening expedition into the fusion of ProCode discipline with low-code dynamism, as James Wood, a software maven with a heart rooted in SAP, weaves the tale of his Microsoft Power Platform odyssey. Our vibrant discussion cuts through the technical tangles to reveal the seamless integration within enterprise ecosystems, where tools like Dynamics and Workday dovetail with the Power Platform to spark innovation. As the conversation unfolds, James' dual life as both a code and culinary aficionado emerges, providing a hearty serving of inspiration for professionals seeking to blend passion with their technical pursuits.Discover the architectural blueprints for crafting robust enterprise applications and delve into the paradigm shift towards collaborative, cross-disciplinary Fusion Teams. We navigate the challenges and triumphs of opinionated frameworks, considering the delicate interplay between autonomy and productivity. Dataverse's superiority over traditional SQL storage, the strategic use of virtual tables, and the ever-changing landscape of Power Platform updates from Microsoft take center stage, as we analyze their impact on extending capabilities and transforming the developer experience.Wrapping up our exploration, we probe into the art of guiding seasoned developers through a respectful transition to low-code platforms like Power Platform. Join us in contemplating the strategies and considerations for harmonizing data integration, the use of virtual tables, and scaling solutions without compromising the rich expertise these professionals bring to the table. As James shares his story, we invite you, our valued listeners, to contribute to the narrative of business application evolution and aim high on your tech 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/550 Ever wondered how a deep love for the digital dance of ones and zeroes could harmonize with the serene pleasures of fjord fishing in Norway? Our latest MVP guest, Inge Magne Bruvik, a maestro of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, has struck that perfect chord. Join us as we voyage through his beginnings—from an early intrigue with computers to a profound expertise in Business Central—set against the idyllic backdrop of Bergen. As he recounts his personal saga, you'll be transported to a world where the Northern Lights dance overhead and the local seafood is as rich in flavor as his tales, revealing the delicate balance between a life immersed in technology and the tranquility of casting lines with his son.In the realm of software, evolution is a tale as old as time, but rarely is it told with such insightful clarity as by our esteemed Norwegian MVP. He navigates us through the architectural metamorphosis of Business Central, from the solid grounds of Dynamics NAV/Navision's C/SIDE database to the dynamic seas of Microsoft's SQL Server. Experience the thrills and challenges that came with such a significant transition, especially within the vast Scandinavian deployments. Moreover, while the cloud may be soaring high, the roots of on-premises solutions still grip firmly to the ground, as he explains with an expertise only years in the trenches can bestow. Wrapping up, he shares the inspiring journey that led him to earn the celebrated title of MVP, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Dynamics community.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge April 1st 2024https://ako.nz365guy.comUse the code PODCAST at checkout for a 10% discountSupport 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/549  Ever wonder what happens when podcast co-hosts go MIA and leave us to our own misadventures? Well, wonder no more as we tackle the world of Microsoft Power Platform with a pinch of humor, discussing the mysterious whereabouts of Will and Anna, and possibly another tattoo escapade from Chris Huntingford. Buckle up for a journey through listener preferences on episode lengths, the laughable complexities of corporate travel plans, and the impact of employee benefits on conference attendance. Whether you're a fan of the long-form deep dives or the snappy 30-minute updates, we've got insights that will tickle your fancy and provoke thoughts on the corporate world's peculiarities.Strap in as we confront the lightning-fast pace of AI advancements, like a friendly C-3PO reading us white papers, and the pressing need for curated learning paths in the sea of available resources. Hear about how adaptable business strategies and flexible platforms like Power Platform are the secret sauce for responding swiftly to new market demands. We'll also dissect my white paper, weaving in insights from AI mavens like Pablo Castro and economic trends that shape the way we invest in technology. So, grab your headphones and join us for a candid mix of tech know-how and real-world business talk, all while we invite your contributions for future conversations that bridge the gap between the high-tech and the here-and-now.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/548   When Lewis Baybutt strides into a room, you can't help but feel the future of tech brighten. At just 19, this UK-based MVP and Power Platform Functional Consultant shares a riveting tale of his ascent from high school to tech community stardom, aspirations of CEO-dom in tow. Our conversation is a delightful blend of professional prowess and personal anecdotes, including Lewis's penchant for chicken katsu curry and his spirited recounts of holiday celebrations across the globe. His infectious enthusiasm for his craft and the community is palpable, especially as he reminisces about his speaking engagements and the pride of being recognized as an MVP.This episode is a treasure trove for those navigating the Microsoft ecosystem, with Lewis leading us through the labyrinth of Dynamics customizations and the evolution from PSA to Project Operations. His first-hand experiences offer a rare glimpse into the world of SharePoint integration and the intricacies of implementing Omnichannel Live Chat. As we peek into his future endeavors, like the upcoming Dynamic Minds conference in Slovenia, it's clear that Lewis is not just living the dream—he’s actively shaping it for himself and inspiring others along the way. Join us and be inspired by the drive and ambition that are hallmarks of a new generation of tech innovators.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP Lewis' GitHub: https://github.com/lowcodelewisMicrosoft 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/547  Embark on a thrilling journey with our guest Francesco Musso, a Power Platform maestro from Bolton, England, whose story unfolds from vibrant nightlife entrepreneur to a master of Power Pages. Francesco's expertise is not just shaping the digital landscape but also weaving the rich tapestry of his Sicilian roots into a professional narrative that embraces food, family, and fun. His shift from Dynamics CRM to customer-centric portals is a tale as rich and diverse as the flavors of his heritage, underscoring the transformative impact of Power Platform solutions on modern business.Uncover the breakthroughs that Power Pages has brought to businesses, like a recruitment firm that flipped the script on their operations, turning the financial crisis into a launchpad for innovation. Francesco's approach to marrying client vision with cutting-edge technology is a masterclass in customer engagement, proving that tailored solutions are the keystones of success in this dynamic digital arena. The conversation is a treasure trove of best practices, from the art of showcasing platform capabilities to aligning with your client's wildest dreams for their projects.In the realm of freelancing, Francesco is a navigator through the complexities of value-based pricing strategies and the logistics of managing global collaborations with grace. His insights are a beacon for those venturing into independent contracting, highlighting the significance of community, networking, and platforms like LinkedIn in crafting a thriving international client base. Get ready to be inspired as Francesco shares his playbook for a successful freelance career, peppered with anecdotes of cross-time zone project management, and the strategic cultivation of professional relationships that catalyze repeat business and global connections.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/546   Have you ever wondered how a rural upbringing and a penchant for Mexican food could lead to tech stardom? Our guest Kim Dallefeld, a Dallas-Fort Worth dynamo and newly-minted MVP, didn't see the connection until she dived headfirst into the tech world. With laughter and candor, Kim recounts her unexpected journey from a large family farm to becoming an indispensable part of the NAV community and now, a sage in the realm of Business Central. This episode isn't just a chronicle of professional triumph; it's a tale of personal growth, a passion for the great outdoors, and a roadmap for embracing the twists and turns of life's tech highway.As we navigate the intricate web of Dynamics 365 Business Central, you'll be privy to the nitty-gritty of transitioning from NAV to BC through the expert lens of our guest. With user experience and interface improvements at the forefront, Kim demystifies how newcomers to BC find their footing with surprising ease. She also teases the game-changing potential of AI, particularly with the Co-pilot feature in bank reconciliations. And for those who love to tinker with data, there's a buzz around the multi-tiered reporting and the Power Platform's seamless integration, poised to revolutionize form creation, customer engagement, and workflow efficiency. So, buckle up and join us for a tech adventure that stitches together community, innovation, and the future of business management tools.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/545  Prepare to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence in your enterprise as Andrew, the brilliant mind behind the Microsoft and Cloud Lighthouse white paper, joins us to reveal the building blocks of an AI strategy that stands the test of time. Our conversation navigates through the critical terrain of data readiness, where Andrew spotlights the often underestimated but crucial practices of data hygiene and governance. By sidestepping the chaos that ensues from a hasty AI rollout and zeroing in on the solid foundation of data infrastructure, we uncover insights on harnessing both structured and unstructured data, from call recordings to telemetry, to empower decision-making with AI's precision.Venture with us as we explore AI's transformative influence on industries far and wide, especially in healthcare, where the stakes are as high as human lives. We dissect how AI is revolutionizing patient care, from steering the outcomes of those battling chronic diseases like diabetes to the cutting-edge developments in cardio-oncology. As Andrew articulates the significance of adopting a balanced AI approach, we weigh the impact of incremental AI enhancements against ambitious, paradigm-shifting projects like AlphaFold. Discover how even the simplest of AI applications can drastically improve customer service experiences, painting a broadstroke of AI's vast capabilities and its role in shaping a future where technology and human insight collaborate for unparalleled progress.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/544   Embark on an extraordinary voyage with Rachel Irabor, a Microsoft Dynamics 365 wizard from Malta's sunny shores, and a fresh MVP laureate whose roots sink deep into Nigeria's vibrant soil. Through her vivid recollections, we traverse a landscape of personal trials, early business ventures, and the profound role tech communities play in personal growth. Her narrative, rich with the nuances of cross-continental shifts and the resilience in the face of her father's loss, is more than just a story – it's a testament to the indomitable spirit that fuels innovation and transformation in the tech world.As Rachel lays down a roadmap peppered with wisdom for aspiring data analysts and Power Platform enthusiasts, she does more than just share advice – she ignites a beacon for navigating the tech industry's dynamic seas. Her emphasis on community engagement, the art of receiving and applying feedback, and the delicate dance between technical expertise and soft skills coalesce into a powerful guide for career progression. Grasp these pearls of wisdom, and you'll find a clearer path to your own tech triumphs, mentored by someone who has walked the journey and emerged victorious.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP Rachel’s GitHub:https://github.com/Uchemena Microsoft Tech Community: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/educator-developer-blog/opportunities-of-microsoft-power-platform-in-africa/ba-p/3670531 Rachel’s LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/rachelirabor 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