Microsoft Innovation Podcast

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https://podcast.nz365guy.com/610
Francis Msangi Masera, a passionate Chief Innovation Officer from Nairobi, Kenya, takes us on a fascinating journey through his career in the tech world. From his initial spark of interest in computers during high school to becoming a Microsoft MVP in 2024, Francis' story is one of dedication and innovation. We explore his transition from being a C-sharp developer to specializing in Navision and Business Central, emphasizing his impactful role in implementing these solutions locally and internationally. With the rising popularity of Business Central and Power Platform in Kenya, especially among SMEs and large organizations, Francis provides valuable insights and shares a glimpse of Nairobi's vibrant culture, including the culinary delight of Nyama Choma.
Our conversation shifts to the exciting integration of AI tools like Microsoft's Copilot in Business Central, and how Azure OpenAI service is enhancing functionalities for businesses. Francis sheds light on the importance of prompt engineering in optimizing these technologies, offering practical examples like invoicing with specific item queries. He also shares strategic tips on becoming a Microsoft MVP, emphasizing the significance of community contributions and effective showcasing of work. His experiences, including speaking at events like Experts Live Kenya, highlight his commitment to community engagement and knowledge sharing. Join us to discover how Francis's expertise is helping businesses unleash the full potential of ERP platforms through AI advancements.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP
90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/

In 2024, we celebrated seven years of the Microsoft Business Applications podcast. Now, we step into 2025 with a fresh new name.
Welcome to the Microsoft Innovation podcast! Our new name reflects a broader vision, exploring the intersection of people, business, technology, and AI.

Justin Welsh
Justin Welsh’s LinkedIn Operating System—the guide to finding your voice on LinkedIn.

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.
Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Send me a Text Message here

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://podcast.nz365guy.com/639
Discover the transformative journey of Douglas Daley from Sydney as he shifts from a tech-focused career at IBM to a more business-centric role at PwC. Gain insights into how this evolution is not just a career pivot but a holistic change that enhances both professional and personal life. Doug's tale is as much about embracing business perspectives to boost organizational performance as it is about balancing these insights with passions outside work, like his love for pre-industrial furniture making. This episode unpacks how traditional crafts can offer a much-needed antidote to burnout culture, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Explore how AI is revolutionizing technology consulting, with a focus on creating a diverse personal knowledge base. This episode sheds light on the tools that are shaping the field, from ChatGPT to Midjourney, and emphasizes the significance of adopting AI-enhanced methods for capturing and organizing information. We also discuss the pressing need for creativity and caution against becoming overly reliant on AI-generated content. With Doug's valuable reflections, listeners will understand the impact and potential of AI tools like Notion AI in streamlining business processes and how they are reclaiming time for more profound, creative endeavors.

In 2024, we celebrated seven years of the Microsoft Business Applications podcast. Now, we step into 2025 with a fresh new name.
Welcome to the Microsoft Innovation podcast! Our new name reflects a broader vision, exploring the intersection of people, business, technology, and AI.

90 Day Mentoring Challenge
Microsoft Business Applications Career Mentor for the Power Platform and Dynamics 365

Justin Welsh
Justin Welsh’s LinkedIn Operating System—the guide to finding your voice on LinkedIn.

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.
Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Send me a Text Message here

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://podcast.nz365guy.com/597
Get ready to rethink everything you know about AI governance as we dive into the compelling world of chaos engineering in AI. Today's episode of the Ecosystem Show promises to challenge traditional mindsets and spotlight the innovative approaches necessary for managing AI-infused container apps and custom large language models (LLMs). Through real-world examples and ethical discussions, we tackle the complexities of governing non-deterministic AI solutions and emphasize the critical role of transparency and rigorous testing as dictated by the EU AI Act. We also grapple with the thorny issues of liability and accountability when AI-generated content goes awry.
In our next segment, we shine a spotlight on the indispensable role of good data and observability in AI and AIOps, with special insights from Alistair Pugin. You'll learn about the dangers of data exfiltration, the nuances between observability and monitoring, and the imperative for continuous improvement in an AI-driven landscape. As we navigate through the complexities of establishing AI standards in light of new regulations, like the European AI Act, we also delve into the evolving role of citizen developers and how they integrate into this fast-paced world of AI.
Finally, we explore the strategies individuals use to stay updated in the ever-evolving world of AI. From balancing busy jobs and personal lives to leveraging informal learning and engaging with knowledgeable colleagues, we uncover the various ways to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. We introduce "Napkin AI," a tool that transforms written content into visual diagrams, enhancing comprehension and presentations. Wrapping up, we emphasize the importance of retaining skilled low-code Power Platform professionals and dispel the misconception that citizen developers only need advanced Excel skills to succeed. Tune in for a demonstration of Napkin AI and insights into the exciting, yet complex, future of AI governance and collaboration.
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nz365guy)

In 2024, we celebrated seven years of the Microsoft Business Applications podcast. Now, we step into 2025 with a fresh new name.
Welcome to the Microsoft Innovation podcast! Our new name reflects a broader vision, exploring the intersection of people, business, technology, and AI.

90 Day Mentoring Challenge
Microsoft Business Applications Career Mentor for the Power Platform and Dynamics 365

Justin Welsh
Justin Welsh’s LinkedIn Operating System—the guide to finding your voice on LinkedIn.

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.
Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Send me a Text Message here

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://podcast.nz365guy.com/598
Ever wondered how to unlock the full potential of low-code platforms in a global organization? Join us for an engaging conversation with Valentin Mazhar, an MVP awardee and M365 Solution Architect at Zurich Insurance, as he reveals his fascinating professional journey from Paris to Barcelona. Valentin's story is a tapestry of passions—from early love for math to a thriving career in digitalization, all the way to his current role in the Power Platform Center for Enablement. Alongside insights into his career, Valentin brings personal stories to life, sharing moments from his life like his transition from squash and mountain biking to becoming an avid runner on Barcelona's beaches, and his exciting personal milestones including marriage and expecting twins.
In this episode, we dig deep into the critical debate around Power Platform governance and licensing. Valentin shares his expert perspective on the challenges and benefits of managed environments, the cost implications, and when it makes sense to invest in premium capabilities. We tackle the tricky balance between custom tools and out-of-the-box features, and the total cost of ownership (TCO) considerations for organizations. Whether you're a tech enthusiast eager to learn more about the Power Platform or simply someone who enjoys a mix of professional insights and personal narratives, this episode offers a rich blend of both.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP

In 2024, we celebrated seven years of the Microsoft Business Applications podcast. Now, we step into 2025 with a fresh new name.
Welcome to the Microsoft Innovation podcast! Our new name reflects a broader vision, exploring the intersection of people, business, technology, and AI.

Justin Welsh
Justin Welsh’s LinkedIn Operating System—the guide to finding your voice on LinkedIn.

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.
Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Send me a Text Message here

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://podcast.nz365guy.com/559
Unleash the transformative power of low-code development as we dismantle the myths surrounding Microsoft's Power Platform. Our latest episode shatters the stereotype that Power Platform is confined to trivial tasks and asserts its prowess on par with giants like SAP. Our esteemed guest brings to light the critical role of professional developers and architects in revolutionizing the adoption of this innovative technology. Join us for a riveting discussion that promises to alter your perception of what it means to create impactful enterprise solutions and understand the immense value hidden within your Power Platform licenses.
Embark on a narrative journey with a case study from Australian border security, where Power Platform's agility has redefined cost and time efficiencies. In this conversation, we confront the urgent need for enterprise architects to pivot towards embracing low-code as a strategic asset within their ecosystems. We challenge the outdated idea that low-code development isn't "professional" and advocate for the recognition of every coding language as a milestone in the democratization of technology. Listening to this episode guarantees a newfound appreciation for the finesse required in low-code ecosystems and the potential it holds for your organization's strategic IT planning.
In our final discourse, we delve into the intricacies of Power Platform's canvas apps and their evolution, emphasizing the untapped capabilities of AI and automation in application lifecycle management. We argue for a shift in terminology from 'app' to 'solution' to reflect the sophisticated nature of Power Platform tools, and we make a case for the adoption of premium features to fully leverage the platform's potential. Celebrate with us the success of our creative LinkedIn caricature event promotion and engage with our call for guest suggestions and support through buymeacoffee.com. This episode is not just a discussion but a mission to enlighten and inspire you to harness the full scope of technological innovation at your fingertips.

In 2024, we celebrated seven years of the Microsoft Business Applications podcast. Now, we step into 2025 with a fresh new name.
Welcome to the Microsoft Innovation podcast! Our new name reflects a broader vision, exploring the intersection of people, business, technology, and AI.

90 Day Mentoring Challenge
Microsoft Business Applications Career Mentor for the Power Platform and Dynamics 365

Justin Welsh
Justin Welsh’s LinkedIn Operating System—the guide to finding your voice on LinkedIn.

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.
Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith