Episodios

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/584

    Discover the latest in AI-driven advancements and managed environments within Microsoft's Power Platform in our latest episode of the Copilot Show. We had an enlightening chat with Ryan Jones, a partner director of product management at Microsoft, who shared his incredible journey from the Common Data Service days to the robust Dataverse. Ryan's passion for enhancing enterprise-scale applications and integrating AI with Copilot shines through as he shares exciting updates on governance and security advancements made over the past year. Get an insider's look at the balance Ryan maintains between his professional life and personal time at his beach cabin or hosting large gatherings at home.

    Unlock the secrets behind Microsoft's extensive IP security investments specifically designed for financial institutions and enterprises. Ryan takes us through the alignment of security controls with established models, policy-based configurations, and the innovative environment routing that offers developers personalized environments with tailored security policies. These advancements reduce dependence on default environments, elevating overall governance and security. We delve deep into the specific measures like customer-managed key vaults, HSMs, and virtual network connectivity to ensure comprehensive risk management.

    In our discussion on licensing, we break down the tangible benefits of premium licenses over basic ones within managed environments. With examples ranging from historical hypervisor wars to modern tools like Power Automate Desktop, we illuminate the critical balance between fostering creativity and maintaining control. Ryan provides strategies for persuading organizations to adopt premium licenses, showcasing how they can harness richer security features and manage their environments more effectively. To wrap things up, Mark extends an invitation to listeners to suggest future guests from Microsoft, ensuring our content remains engaging and community-driven.

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/583

    What does it take to become an MVP in the dynamic world of Power Platform development? Join us as we host Mantas Umbrasas, Lithuania's first BizApps MVP, who illuminates his path to this prestigious title. From his early explorations in SharePoint configurations to his inspirational journey with Microsoft's Power Apps and Power Automate, Mantas shares the pivotal moments and community support that propelled him forward. He also offers a personal glimpse into his passions, from savouring the finest Indian cuisine to his excitement over Lithuania's recent Michelin reviews. Mantas paints a vivid picture of Lithuania's serene landscapes, making it a compelling travel destination for nature enthusiasts.

    In this episode, we also dive into the heart of the MVP journey, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting the dedication needed to achieve this honour. Mantas recounts encouraging community events and discusses his significant contribution to a government project during the pandemic with a Power App prototype for online voting. As your host, Mark Smith, I express my gratitude for your continued support and invite you to engage further by supporting the show. Tune in for a compelling blend of professional insights and personal narratives that promise to inspire and inform.

    OTHER RESOURCES:
    Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP
    90 Day Mentoring Challenge 10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

    Support the Show.

    If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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  • Send me a Text Message here

    FULL SHOW NOTES
    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/582

    Ever wondered how AI can revolutionize your daily tasks and business strategies? Join us live from the Dynamics Minds conference in Porto Roche, Slovenia, where we kick off with a deep dive into the vibrant energy of the event. You’ll hear all about the creative showcases by exhibitors and a hilarious recount of Chris Huntingford's unexpected travel escapades. Plus, get an inside look into the highly successful "Ecosystems 101" course by Andrew and Mark, complete with real stories of impressive participant engagement and the enriching group exercises.

    Switching gears, we tackle the vital issue of AI data integration, outlining both the lucrative benefits and serious risks. Discover why investing in premium power platforms is essential, and the dangers of relying solely on basic Microsoft 365 capabilities. We delve into the critical importance of data hygiene and the pitfalls of security by obscurity, especially with AI's ability to exploit poorly managed data. Learn why advanced tools like Purview and Sentinel are indispensable, despite their costs, to sidestep potential regulatory nightmares like GDPR.

    Finally, imagine a world where AI agents proficient in C++ code and testing can drastically speed up development cycles. We explore groundbreaking applications of AI across various sectors, from marketing to everyday life tasks like booking travel and concierge services. Hear our humorous critique of Microsoft Copilot and insights on the rapid advancements in machine learning. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how these AI innovations can transform both your business operations and personal life.

    Join Ana Welch, Andrew Welch, Chris Huntingford and William Dorrington in this insightful episode of Ecosystems Show.

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/581

    How does a seemingly ordinary career transform into a technological odyssey? Join us on the Power Platform Show as we sit down with Ruben Ruiz, the dynamic Power Platform practice lead at International Workplace Group. From his charming family life and love for mountain biking to his passion for home automation and sweets, Ruben's multifaceted personality shines through. Find out how his journey from Malaga, Spain, to Lisbon, Portugal, and his deep appreciation for Portuguese culture and festivals like Saint-Jean and Saint-Antonio, have influenced both his personal and professional life.

    Ruben's professional saga is equally compelling. He reveals the remarkable scale of Power Platform adoption within his company, uncovering a landscape of over 40 environments, 2,000 flows, 750+ power apps, and more. Learn how this discovery catalyzed the formation of a dedicated team to govern and optimize the platform, transforming simple apps into robust systems integrated with Dynamics F&O. Ruben shares invaluable insights on making these apps highly configurable, leveraging tools like Dataverse, SharePoint, Canvas Apps, Power Automate, and RPA, and the critical role of effective communication in managing large-scale implementations. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about driving business transformation through technology.

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/580

    Imagine discovering a whole new career path through unexpected turns and community support. That’s exactly what happened to our special guest, Heidi Jordan, an MVP from South Dakota and manager at Avanade. From an aspiring math teacher to a problem-solving business analyst and finally a tech leader in business intelligence and SharePoint, Heidi's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Listen in as she shares the pivotal moment in 2016 when she stumbled upon the Power Platform and how it propelled her into the tech world. Heidi’s personal anecdotes about her love for cooking, family time, and enduring South Dakota winters add a heartfelt touch to her remarkable story.

    In this episode, Heidi also opens up about the challenges and triumphs she faced while transitioning to the Power Platform, including becoming a "Flowmaster" and dealing with complex migrations without prior experience. The importance of community support and mentorship becomes evident as she recounts how impactful mentors and opportunities like attending conferences helped shape her career. Heidi reveals why she moved from the customer side to the partner side of the tech industry, driven by a desire to stay dynamic and avoid repetitive projects. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about how unexpected career paths and community involvement can lead to extraordinary achievements.

    OTHER RESOURCES:
    Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP
    90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/

    Support the Show.

    If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/579

    Say goodbye to the traditional IT project! The tech industry's landscape is rapidly changing, pushing past long-term contracts to embrace agile and continuous collaborations. Join Anna, Mark, and Chris as they explore this transformation, sharing humorous and insightful anecdotes—like Chris's memorable Government Day laptop mishap—to illustrate the move from isolated projects to ongoing managed services. They're diving into the impact of rapid technological advancements, especially in AI and large language models, reshaping how businesses approach IT today.

    In the latter half of our episode, we tackle the evolving business models in IT, discussing the shift from traditional managed services to cloud-based solutions. Drawing from the DevOps Institute's insights, we highlight the challenges faced by partners and consultancies, including resistance to change. Finally, we examine the dynamics between customers and partners, particularly around Microsoft’s Dynamics and Power Platform. Is flexible budgeting better than fixed-price contracts? How can incremental investments in AI ensure real progress? Tune in to find out and arm yourself with the knowledge to navigate this ever-evolving tech landscape!

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/578

    Unlock the secrets to becoming a top-tier solutions architect with our special guest Sean Astrakhan, a team lead for solution architecture at Microsoft and a celebrated YouTuber course creator. Join us as Sean takes us through his fascinating career journey, from teaching to engineering, while sharing his love for Mexican cuisine and diverse dance genres like salsa, merengue, and hip hop. Discover how his international experiences in Mexico, Spain, and St. Petersburg, Russia have shaped his personal and professional life, and how his passion for coding has opened new doors for him.

    Explore the world of platform architecture as we dive into the essential responsibilities of a solutions architect. Sean provides invaluable insights as he discusses user experience, the importance of integrating platforms like Power Platform, Azure, and M365, and the broader impacts of design choices on business solutions. Learn how to navigate the complexities of today's technology landscape and find fulfillment in balancing team leadership with managing your own projects.

    Get ahead of the curve with our discussion on the newly announced well-architected framework, encompassing cost optimization, budgeting, and licensing. Sean shares his motivations behind his course creation and emphasizes the critical role of communication skills for developers transitioning into architectural roles. Finally, we delve into the evolving influence of AI in solutions architecture, with a focus on the limitations and potentials of tools like Copilot, and the importance of data structuring and Power BI for future-ready solutions architects. This episode is packed with valuable experiences and forward-thinking perspectives you won't want to miss.

    OTHER RESOURCES:
    Link to Sean's Course - https://www.untethered365.com/architects-accelerator
    GitHub: https://github.com/sastrakhan

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge  10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

    Support the Show.

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    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/577

    What role do food, family, and fun play in shaping an IT professional's life? Discover the captivating world of Saurabh Bharti, a seasoned Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations consultant hailing from the UK, as he takes us on a flavorful journey through his Indian heritage. From exploring London's diverse Indian food scene to unravelling the rich tapestry of Indian politics and culture, Saurabh's stories offer a mesmerizing blend of personal and professional experiences. Join us as we dream of future travels to India, sharing our own encounters with its vibrant culinary landscape and contemplating the idea of immersing ourselves in its unparalleled hospitality.

    Our episode also charts Saurabh's fascinating career journey, from his roots in computer science engineering in Bangalore to his current role in the UK. Hear about the pivotal moments that shaped his path, including his introduction to Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 and the invaluable mentorship that deepened his understanding of finance consulting. Finally, we wrap up with an enlightening conversation with Sir AB, a renowned business applications expert, who shares his profound insights on various topics. With gratitude and anticipation, we look forward to more enriching discussions in future episodes.

    OTHER RESOURCES:
    Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge  10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

    Support the Show.

    If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/576

    How can smaller economies like New Zealand and Australia keep up with the cloud technology revolution? Join us on this episode of the Power Platform Show as we uncover the unique dynamics of adopting Microsoft Power Platform in these less densely populated regions. We promise insights into how population density and economic size shape technological adoption and business culture, and debunk the myths surrounding market size and opportunities south of the equator.

    Using New Zealand as a case study, we analyze the economic impact of global trade and technology, spotlighting the success of Green Button. We discuss leveraging Microsoft's Azure, Power Platform, and Fabric for a competitive edge. Our conversation extends to the broader economic landscape, contrasting the US's large internal market, Europe's fragmented economies, and China's export-driven strategy. Learn how geography, market size, and government support forge paths for business innovation and growth.

    Lastly, we explore the transformative power of AI in education, particularly one-to-one tutoring for young children. Imagine reducing learning time while boosting outcomes, allowing families to travel and maintain high educational standards. We also share personal stories about our dream destinations and the practicalities of living abroad in a hybrid work world. From the charm of Tuscany to the vibrant cultures of Portugal, Spain, and Argentina, we provide a fresh perspective on global living and remote work.

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    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/575

    Unlock the power of data transformation in our latest episode as we chat with Scott Sewell, a Principal Program Manager at Microsoft, who shares his journey from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the serene landscapes of Tennessee. Scott's evolution from a Dynamics CRM expert to a Power BI advocate provides a fascinating backdrop for our discussion on the significance of turning transactional data into impactful reports. Discover how these insights can engage decision-makers and highlight the real value within Dataverse.

    We delve into the transformative potential of Microsoft Fabric, a unified platform that streamlines data management by integrating SQL servers, data warehouses, and analytics tools. By reducing complexity, Fabric allows businesses to concentrate on configuring tools to meet specific needs. We also cover the current lifecycle of Fabric, from its preview phase to general availability, and provide an overview of its user-centric licensing model. Scott's insights draw a parallel between the evolution of Fabric and the impactful changes seen in the Power Platform, reinforcing the importance of innovative data solutions.

    Finally, we explore the interplay between AI, Fabric, and Dataverse. Scott sheds light on how structured data sources are essential for efficient AI model training, making it easier for businesses to create intelligent models that can predict outcomes and identify patterns. We also touch on the democratization of AI tools, ensuring advanced technologies are accessible to more users. To wrap up, we share our anticipation for the upcoming Power Platform Conference in Vegas, where networking opportunities abound and the latest advancements in data management will be unveiled. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge that promises to enhance your business processes and decision-making.

    OTHER RESOURCES
    Author of The CRM Field Guide: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B009ITN8M6/about?ingress=0&visitId=79d0a409-1a38-425f-980c-fcc47ec2858a
    Power Community: https://events.powercommunity.com/speaker/scott_sewell/
    CRMrocks: https://crmrocks.com/2023/01/14/power-bi-and-dataverse-with-scott-sewell/

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    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/574

    Unlock the secrets to navigating an unconventional tech career as we sit down with Michael Roth from Germany, a manager of Experience Tech at Avanade and a Power Platform governance MVP. From educational science to IT consulting, Michael’s journey is anything but typical. He takes us through his transformation, sharing the pivotal experiences and influential mentors that guided him. Hear the story behind his first project, a seemingly simple tea timer app, and discover how his passion for in-person workshops using pen and paper played a crucial role in his professional development. This episode is a testament to the power of personal connections and real-world interactions in forging a successful career.

    But that's not all. We dive into the transformative power of blogging within the IT community, illustrating how documenting personal solutions can lead to broader recognition and professional growth. Michael shares insights on the critical importance of Power Platform security and AI governance, emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures and thoughtful AI integration. This discussion underscores the increasing necessity for effective data handling and governance strategies as technology evolves. Tune in for a compelling mix of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and actionable advice from Michael’s remarkable journey.

    OTHER RESOURCES:
    Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge  10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

    Support the Show.

    If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/573

    Have you ever had a brush with fame on a train or bumped into royalty at a bookstore? Join us for a laughter-filled episode of the Power Platform Show where William Dorrington, Andrew Welch, and I, Mark Smith, share our hilarious celebrity encounters, featuring stories about Ryan Cunningham, Kevin McLeod, and even a chance meeting with Queen Elizabeth. Amid our humorous banter, we introduce the intriguing concept of "anchor apps," a term coined by Steve Mordew, to explore applications that are so integral to business operations they become irreplaceable.

    Then, we take a deep dive into the world of enterprise agreements and ERP systems, reminiscing about the days of lengthy update cycles and discussing the significant shifts brought by enterprise licenses. We tackle the rise of low-code/no-code apps, playfully dubbed "craplets," that can fall short of delivering substantial value. The conversation highlights the need to focus on robust, mission-critical applications that seamlessly integrate with organizational infrastructure, ensuring continuous growth and adaptability. We also touch on the Five Eyes alliance, providing a fascinating context to understand the dynamics of deploying large-scale apps in enterprise settings.

    Lastly, we navigate through the Power Platform ecosystem, detailing how certain applications rise to the status of anchor apps and their pivotal role in business operations. We categorize apps into productivity, important, and critical tiers, emphasizing the urgency for better recognition of Power Platform as a formidable enterprise solution. Our discussion includes captivating tales of legacy tech solutions, like a sophisticated system for the US and New Zealand mission to Antarctica, and a critical test management app in the UK. These stories illustrate the lasting impact of enterprise-grade apps across various sectors, blending humor, insight, and real-world technology triumphs.

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/572

    What if you could effortlessly manage your development infrastructure while ensuring robust security and compliance? Join us as we sit down with Raphael Pothin, a Lead Power Platform Reliability Engineer at Manulife, who is revolutionizing governance processes and streamlining administrative tasks with the Power Platform. Raphael shares his passion for DevOps and dives into the game-changing potential of the Terraform provider for Power Platform, bringing infrastructure as code to new heights.

    Discover how Microsoft's Power Platform can transform your development workflow, freeing you from the complexities of maintaining infrastructure. Raphael walks us through the advantages of using Dataverse for data management and integrating backend solutions with Azure services. We discuss the often-debated topic of control versus efficiency, highlighting how Power Platform stands up to enterprise demands while allowing developers to maintain ALM rigor and source control.

    Finally, we explore the rich resources available for developers making the transition to Power Platform. Raphael emphasizes the value of Microsoft Learn and community engagement, and reveals how Microsoft Fabric integrates seamlessly with Dynamics 365 for advanced data processing. Hear firsthand how Manulife leverages the Power Platform on a global scale, navigating data sovereignty challenges in the financial sector. Plus, gain insights into boosting productivity through Power Automate and Power Apps, as Raphael shares personal strategies for overcoming performance challenges. Tune in for an episode packed with actionable insights and expert advice!

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    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/571

    Unlock the secrets of becoming a Microsoft MVP with our guest Tomas Riha, a seasoned business process automation consultant from Prague. Tomas' journey is anything but ordinary, starting from his early days with SharePoint and Nintex, evolving to his current specialization in Power Automate and M365. Tomas doesn't just talk tech; he shares his life beyond the screen, including his new passion for salsa dancing and five-year dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His unique approach to understanding and organizing complex company workflows will offer you practical strategies to streamline your own processes.

    Managing financial logistics and payments from international clients can be daunting, but Tomas breaks down these challenges with practical insights and personal anecdotes. From dealing with various currencies to navigating the quirks of PayPal and paper checks, his experiences offer invaluable lessons for any global consultant. We also delve deep into the essence of becoming an MVP, underscoring the importance of genuine passion and community involvement. Tomas’ story of contributing through forums and blogging during the COVID-19 lockdown serves as an inspiring example of how dedication and consistency can lead to recognition. Tune in for actionable advice, personal stories, and a fresh perspective on achieving success in the tech community.

    OTHER RESOURCES:
    Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge 10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

    Support the Show.

    If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.com/570

    Can AI truly understand and manipulate our realities without us noticing? Join us on this exploration of artificial intelligence as we challenge prevalent fears and misconceptions, often stoked by media sensationalism. Chris emphasizes the importance of educating organizations to dispel these myths and highlights the productivity-boosting capabilities of tools like Microsoft's Co-Pilot. We also delve into the implications of a significant lawsuit involving Elon Musk and OpenAI, which raises crucial questions about the evolving landscape of artificial general intelligence (AGI).

    Imagine a world where AGI operates behind the scenes, subtly influencing our decisions and actions. We discuss the skepticism around AGI's true capabilities and contrast Western notions of privacy with the Chinese acceptance of constant surveillance. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we bring in Daniel Kahneman's insights, discussing how AI can significantly reduce human biases and improve decision-making processes. This chapter not only questions the reality of AGI but also brings to light the potential benefits and ethical considerations of an AI-driven future.

    Are we on the brink of a technological revolution that could rival the advent of electricity? We explore the socio-economic impacts of AI, comparing it to past technological advancements that initially displaced jobs but eventually created new opportunities. The discussion underscores the importance of proactive change and continuous learning in adapting to rapid technological advancements. We also touch on the human aspect, emphasizing empathy and support for those struggling with these transitions. Through historical analogies and personal anecdotes, we illustrate the critical need for societal motivation and the pursuit of new opportunities in an increasingly AI-driven world.

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge  10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

    Support the Show.

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    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.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!

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge  10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

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    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.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/

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge  10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

    Support the Show.

    If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.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.

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.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 MVP
    Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/barretblake
    GitHub: https://github.com/barretb

    90 Day Mentoring Challenge  10% off code use MBAP at checkout https://ako.nz365guy.com

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    Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

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    https://podcast.nz365guy.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!

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