Microsoft Innovation Podcast

FULL SHOW NOTES https://podcast.nz365guy.com/511 Ever wondered how to build a strong platform ecosystem? Or why integrating landing zones across various technologies is key to driving transformation within your organization? Join us as we break down these complexities, along with our esteemed guests Mark Smith, Chris Huntingford, and Anna Demone. Together, we shed light on the core elements of a well-constructed cloud ecosystem. We underscore the importance of a unified data model and a supportive culture in implementing such an ecosystem.The conversation transcends the technicalities of building platform ecosystems and takes a deep dive into the human element. The resistance to change, the importance of cultural adoption, and the role of agile leadership in driving a strategic mindset are themes we explore at length. We glean insights from our experiences with individuals skeptical of change, underlining the significance of effective leadership in encouraging transformation. As we navigate the technology landscape, we emphasize the urgency for continuous learning and modernization. Leaders bear the onus of sharing their knowledge and embracing new business practices to stay competitive. We explore the notion of the "trough of disillusionment" in technology upskilling and the importance of staying current in a rapidly evolving world. So, grab your headphones, get comfortable, and join us on this insightful journey of discovery. This episode promises not just to inform but to inspire and challenge. Tune in!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://podcast.nz365guy.com/510 Ready to embark on a captivating tech journey with Komi Siabi, a Dynamics AX 2012 and Dynamics 365 FNO Technical Consultant from Nigeria? Strap in as we navigate his tech trajectory, from his beginnings in web development to his current role in Dynamics. Komi's detour includes a vibrant tour of his home country with must-try delicacies, top-rated tourist locations, and some exciting insights into the local sports scene. And just when you think you've heard it all, Komi spills the beans on his transition into Dynamics and his experiences as a consultant.But the exploration doesn't stop there! We shine the spotlight on a seasoned Dynamics 365 MVP from Africa, as they unravel their favourite modules in the Dynamics 365 portfolio and the winding road to becoming an MVP. Get ready for some behind-the-scenes on their invaluable contributions to the community through forums, blogging, and speaking events. They passionately discuss the power of multilingual content and dreams of becoming a FastTrack Recognized Solution Architect. For those in Africa aspiring to be MVPs, there's a goldmine of advice on the importance of continuous learning and patience. Get ready for a tech-loaded ride!OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ Dynamics Community: https://community.dynamics.com/members/komi-siabi Community Spotlight: https://community.dynamics.com/365/b/spotlight/posts/komi-siabi---community-spotlightThis 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://podcast.nz365guy.com/509 Are you ready to conquer the complex layers of strategic pyramid implementation? Buckle up as we delve deeper, moving away from mere governance to creating conditions for triumph. From platform management and enterprise architecture to application life cycle management, we guide you through the labyrinth, illuminating the path towards success. Ever wondered how to thrive in an ecosystem-driven world? This episode unpacks the power of governance and the importance of Azure Monitor, App Insights and other technologies in establishing successful conditions. Hear us out as we reveal the potential of setting up an ecosystem design authority to nurture and mature your cloud ecosystem. We also shed light on the significance of multi-ecosystem collaboration and how Microsoft is incentivizing Dynamics over the Power Platform. Weaving in our personal experiences, we talk about the essentials we pack for conferences, revealing the importance of meticulous planning for these events. We touch on Microsoft's AI tools like Copilot and how they can be a game-changer for startups. Towards the end, we share personal anecdotes from helping a friend lace a dress to discussing sustainable practices and the debatable trend of returning to the office. So grab a cuppa and tune in to this insightful conversation! 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://podcast.nz365guy.com/508 What if you could peek into the dynamic world of ERP development and understand the evolution of Business Central from NAV? That's exactly what we're offering in our chat with Steve Endow, a senior ERP developer at Blue Dragonfly and a 10-year MVP recipient. Steve takes us on a journey through his tech landscape, honing in on Dynamics 365 Business Central, its potential for large enterprises despite being a mid-market solution, and its burgeoning role in application development and customization. Together, we also traverse the enticing but challenging terrain of the Dynamics 365 stack, and how it serves as a supplemental tool.Ever wondered about the intricacies of becoming a Microsoft MVP? We delve into it, talking about the rewards and difficulties of this achievement, and Microsoft's push for partners to specialize. Our guest, an MVP for over a decade, shares his voyage, including his recent venture in Latin America, aimed at training Business Central professionals. The importance of English proficiency in the tech industry, particularly in El Salvador, also takes center stage. Brace yourself for an insightful episode packed with Steve's wisdom, advice, and experiences in the ever-evolving tech industry.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ GitHub - https://github.com/steveendow 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://podcast.nz365guy.com/507 Hop aboard the Tech Express with AJ Zafar, the solutions architect from England! Our guest is a tech whiz at Kerv Digital, but don't let his tech credentials fool you. AJ Zafar is a man of many layers; he's an avid community contributor, a pizza enthusiast (pineapple topping included), and a beloved community rock star. Join us as we explore his vibrant world, from his fascinating work life to his fun experiences at a recent community event in Vegas.Are you ready to witness a web developer's metamorphosis into a Power Platform wizard? We've got that captivating tale covered as we dive into the world of Metro Bank. It's a journey filled with challenges, solutions, and growth, showcasing how citizen development is changing the game in the tech world. Hear how our AJ navigated through initial restrictions and smaller problems to successfully grow the Power Platform within the bank. With experience in Unity and WordPress to boot, you can't help but admire the strides they've made towards enabling citizen development at Metro Bank.The topic of security is ever prevalent in our tech-driven world, and we're not shying away from it. Our guest unravels the challenging web of security concerns faced in the realm of citizen development, particularly in a bank setting. From handling these concerns to managing platform access, we delve into it all. We round off with a look at application life cycle management, the significance of a theory test app, and the role of continuous learning in this fast-paced industry. So, buckle in for this tech-filled ride and let's explore the multifaceted world of Power Platform together!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://podcast.nz365guy.com/506Ever wonder what it's like to transition from IT to Power Apps and the Power Platform? Join us as we sit down with Ahmed, a seasoned Microsoft Power Platform solution architect, to unlock the secret behind his journey. Ahmed, who's been in the field since 2013, opens up about his life’s journey, from growing up in the United Arab Emirates and Sudan to becoming a recent MVP awardee. He shares his enthusiasm for Dataverse, his recent ventures with Dynamics 365 FNO, and even his current diet! It's not just about code, but also about the person behind it, and we promise you're going to love this intimate conversation with Ahmed.We then shift gears to delve into the nitty-gritty of Power Apps and the Power Platform. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced developer looking to broaden your knowledge, this episode is a treasure trove. Listen in as we discuss Ahmed's transition from the world of IT, his passion for Dataverse, and his hands-on experience with Dynamics 365 FNO. Ahmed also recommends some indispensable resources for those starting out, including the Microsoft Learn program and community forum. Get ready to be inspired, learn, and be part of our ever-growing community!OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ 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

Sarah Critchley, an accomplished principal program manager at Microsoft, shares her inspiring life journey and discusses Power Virtual Agents (PVA). She uncovers the secrets of PVA, including the PowerCat PVA playbook and Generative Actions. The podcast also delves into the integration of Azure Open AI service with PVA and the potential role of voice technology in PVA.

FULL SHOW NOTES https://podcast.nz365guy.com/504 Imagine sharing a meal with a friend who not only understands the nuances of rich Indian cuisine but also the complexities of the tech world. That's our guest Rachit Garg for you, a Principal Technical Architect from Melbourne, and Microsoft MVP awardee in 2023. He brings a unique blend of flavours to the table - from his favourite spicy dishes of Uttar Pradesh, India, to the technological conundrums he tackles daily. You'll feel the heat of his passion for food and the spark of his technological insights while discovering the diverse taste preferences within his family.  Our conversation takes a twist as we explore the tech world with Rachit, another Microsoft MVP. His journey is lined with invaluable advice for aspiring MVPs, emphasizing the need for a unique contribution, a clear focus, and a well-crafted plan. He makes the concept of AI in Dynamics 365 sound as easy as pie, presenting various practical use cases. So, whether you're a food enthusiast navigating the tech world or a tech aficionado with a penchant for spicy food, this conversation promises to serve you a buffet of insights and experiences. OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ BOOKS & OTHER RESOURCES MENTIONED :F&O applications and gearing up for MVP application: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/modules/get-started-financial-management-dyn365-finance/?WT.mc_id=DX-MVP-5005277 https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/modules/get-started-financial-management-dyn365-finance/?WT.mc_id=DX-MVP-5005277 https://mvp.microsoft.com/en-US/search?target=Profile&program=MVPWT&mc_id=DX-MVP-5005277 https://mvp.microsoft.com/en-US/faq?section=mvp,WT&mc_id=DX-MVP-5005277 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://podcast.nz365guy.com/503 Ever wondered how a social psychologist ended up in IT? Join us for an engaging conversation with our guest, Nils Gooijer, a product owner from the Netherlands who has seamlessly meshed his academic background with his professional expertise. Nils, who has worked with major clients like Heineken, enlightens us on how his path from psychology led him to a pivotal role in IT. He takes us through his fascinating journey, highlighting the integral role of adoption and change management in crafting solutions. In the second part of our discussion, Nils delves deeper into the nuances of adoption and change management. He draws intriguing parallels between these concepts and marketing strategies, shedding light on a marketing template that can be utilized in power platform implementations. If you're seeking tips on creating a fun and inclusive team culture, Nils has got you covered. He emphasizes the power of fun in fostering an inclusive environment, also acknowledging how the Microsoft community encourages individuals to express themselves through the Power Platform. Expect a wealth of insights from this captivating chat! OTHER RESOURCES: Miro board - https://miro.com/app/board/uXjVMTYbxPw=/?share_link_id=955746465988 European Power Platform European Power Platform Conference: https://www.sharepointeurope.com/conference/speakers/nils-gooijer/ 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://podcast.nz365guy.com/502 What happens when a tech enthusiast from Ecuador finds his calling in the vibrant city of Amsterdam? Join us as we chat with Wilmer Alcivar, an MVP from the Netherlands who is passionate about everything CRM, social media integration and adding value to CRM projects. From his early days in Ecuador to his current involvement in the Dynamics sales model and his shift towards the Power Platform, Wilmer’s journey is not only intriguing but also inspiring.  Picture this – a laid-back conversation about tech, culture, and personal anecdotes, all while navigating through the maze of Microsoft Business Applications. Learn from Wilmer as he regales us with his experience with model-driven apps, canvas apps, and custom pages using the Greater Kit. He also takes us through his pioneering work with Power Pages, Power Automate Desktop, and the challenges he sees in the Power Platform. From his initial rejection to finally becoming an MVP, Wilmer's candid recount of his journey offers valuable insights. This episode promises a unique blend of personal wisdom and professional insight, all delivered with a dash of Wilmer's signature charm. OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ Power 365 Academy - https://www.power365academy.com/ GitHub - https://github.com/walcivarThis 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