Microsoft Innovation Podcast

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

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/543    Embark on a journey with Devendra and me as we unravel the intricacies of Power Platform governance and strategy, a topic that's not only professional but also personal. Devendra, the Power Platform architect with a passion for cricket and Indian vegetarian cuisine, has leaped from Accenture to Rio Tinto, bringing stories that merge life's flavors with technological expertise. Together, we explore the depth of the Power Platform, far beyond the simplicity of its low-code/no-code facade, and dive into the nuances of crafting impactful enterprise applications. You'll hear how Devendra's own transition to Perth mirrors the transformative processes businesses undergo with the Power Platform, making this episode a blend of heartfelt narratives and tech-savvy wisdom.Get ready to challenge your understanding of premium licensing within the Power Platform as we tackle the E3 and E5 models, the strategic shift to Dataverse, and the long-term value it can bring to your organization. It's not just about costs; it's about building a powerhouse of productivity that stands the test of time. Hear firsthand the strategies for inspiring a vibrant maker community, discover how to navigate the complex security of Dataverse, and learn why proactive digital transformation, even in remote settings, is essential for modern businesses. We wrap up by examining the delicate dance of app support, where operational improvements hang in the balance – a conversation that promises as much value for your business as it does intrigue for your mind. OTHER RESOURCES:Collab365: https://collab365.com/author/devendravelegandla/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/542   Embark on an enthralling journey with Pir Khurram Rashdi, the tech virtuoso recently crowned MVP from Saudi Arabia and current CIO at Ali Arrafi. Our latest chat with Pir peels back the curtain on his 23-year voyage through the technology landscape, offering an authentic glimpse into the life of a professional whose expertise spans the Power Platform to the subtleties of AI in supply chain management. His story isn't just about bits and bytes; it's steeped in the universal language of food, a testament to his roles across various industries and a passion he savours just as much as technology itself. With Pierre, every tale from garments to coffee is infused with a rich blend of personal endeavour and professional acumen, seasoned with glimpses into his hobbies that paint a picture of a man who not only leads in the boardroom but also in education—guiding fresh graduates through the complexities of ERP on his YouTube channel.Discover the pivotal moments that propelled Pir to MVP status, beginning with his early brush with Dynamics AX in the Air Force and transitioning into a functional wizard who seamlessly bridges the gap between software and its real-life applications. Our conversation navigates the twists and turns of Pierre's ascent from a keen project manager to the strategic heights of a CEO, all the while emphasizing the transformative power of AI and digitalization in today's business world. His narrative is a striking example of self-driven learning and community contribution, culminating in his rise to prominence during the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic—an inspiring tale for anyone looking to carve their path to excellence in the realm of technology. Join us for a session that not only celebrates Pierre's achievements but also imparts the wisdom and drive needed to reach for the stars in the tech universe.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

Andrew and Anna discuss navigating the AI landscape in 2024, covering business strategies, copyright controversies, and personal AI adventures. They delve into how businesses are embracing AI, the challenges of copyright in AI models, and the need for legal updates. The podcast explores the ethical considerations of AI development, the evolution of AI, and the importance of balancing progress with security measures.

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/540   Embark on a remarkable journey with Nigeria's very own tech wizard, Oluwatobi Yusuf, as he pulls back the curtain on his ascent to becoming a Microsoft MVP powerhouse. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone fascinated by the transformative role of technology in shaping careers and communities. Oluwatobi takes us through his academic endeavours in engineering, his adeptness in programming languages, and the serendipitous moment he stumbled upon the Power Platform. But Oluwatobi's narrative is more than code and tech talk; it's a celebration of Nigerian cuisine, his love for the beautiful game of football, and the art of networking that fuels his zest for community building.The heartbeat of this episode lies in the explosive growth of the Power Platform community in Nigeria, a testament to the potential that lies within focused collective efforts. Witness the community's evolution from its humble beginnings in Lagos, now spreading its influence across nine states. Through Oluwatobi's eyes, we see the importance of nurturing talent with systematic bi-monthly meetings, diving deep into strategies that progress member skills with a hands-on approach. His story culminates with the prestigious MVP title, shining a light on the exclusive perks of the role and the indelible impact of his community contributions. Join us for a session that not only educates but also celebrates the spirit of innovation and camaraderie that is rewriting Nigeria's tale in the tech world.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/539  When life throws a curveball, like the mysterious absence of our guest Will Darrington, it's all about the pivot—a theme that resonates throughout our latest episode. We kick things off with a spontaneous round table, riffing on the unexpected nature of life's ups and downs. From Chris Huntingford cautiously navigating the 'trap' of discussing his recent joys to me opening up about a tough day's vital resilience lessons, this conversation peels back the curtain on the very real emotional landscape we all navigate. We then veer into lighter territory with Anna Demeny and Andrew Welch, who regale us with tales of over-the-top festive decor and the undeniable allure of reality TV as a mental vacation.Ever pondered how AI could flip entire industries on their heads? We sink our teeth into that juicy topic, examining the profound influence AI could have on fields grounded in mathematics. Expectations meet reality as we scrutinize Microsoft's strategic AI manoeuvres and consider how these advancements are reshaping roles like executive assistants. Plus, we don't shy away from the bigger picture, tackling the exciting yet risky business of integrating AI into operations. This episode is a melting pot of tech insights, from the promise of AI customization to the parallels drawn with the historic adaptation of tools like Microsoft Office.As our festive episode winds down, we don't just hang up our stockings and call it a night. Instead, we delve into the pressing issues of a two-tier economy emerging from disparate tech adoptions, the ethical crossroads of consulting, and the nostalgia of technology past. We even manage to sprinkle in our tech wish list and the profound potential of Azure Integration Services, all wrapped up with a bow of early morning Christmas cheer. So pour some eggnog, settle in with your family—or your cheese plate—and join us for a conversation that's as rich as fruitcake and as sparkling as the holiday lights.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