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Business Journals
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Journals
5 steps for organizations to get started with AI
1. AI PRODUCTIVITY: Begin your AI journey by activating AI features already available in your Microsoft suite. Microsoft Copilot integrates directly with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, providing immediate value without requiring new infrastructure. Users can use Copilot to draft documents, analyze spreadsheet data, create presentations, and summarize email threads. These tools can be deployed iteratively across departments, starting with power users who can become internal champions for the rest of the organization. 2. WORKFLOW & DOCUMENT INTELLIGENCE: Some of the quickest areas of ROI in AI comes with exploring. Identify repetitive, rule-based processes that consume significant employee time and automate them using AI-powered tools. Microsoft Power Automate can handle document processing, data entry, approval workflows, and integration between different business systems. Using Power Platform's AI Builder, you can utilize AI models to detect document types and extract data to drive these automated workflows, which can connect to Microsoft SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, and many other third-party applications. 3. AI STRATEGY & GOVERNANCE: Create a foundation for AI success by establishing clear data governance, ethical AI guidelines, and implementation standards. This includes data quality assessments, privacy compliance, and defining acceptable AI use cases for your organization. This can consist of leveraging Microsoft Purview for data discovery and classification across your M365 environment and utilizing the Microsoft 365 Security and Compliance Center to enforce AI governance rules and monitor compliance across all AI implementations. 4. LAUNCH AI PILOTS: Select specific business challenges and use cases where AI can deliver measurable value with minimal risk. Customer service or internal facing chatbots, document summarization, or predictive maintenance are excellent starting points that can provide a clear ROI while building organizational AI experience. Plan to start small with several experiments before determining which use cases and AI solutions should proceed to the pilot stage. 5. BUILD INTERNAL EXPERTISE: Invest in developing your team's AI literacy through structured training programs, workshops, and hands-on experience with AI tools. Create centers of excellence that can guide AI adoption across different departments and maintain best practices. Eventually, the input and experiences of these teams will create a cycle of evaluation and updating of your organization's AI strategy and governance plans.
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
Key Traits of Reliable Dynamics 365 Partners
Deploying Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a major step for businesses looking to integrate CRM and ERP systems, streamline operations, and enhance customer engagement. However, the true success of this deployment depends heavily on choosing the right partner. With numerous vendors claiming to offer expertise, it becomes essential to distinguish the truly reliable dynamics 365 implementation partners from the rest. A reliable partner is not just a technical service provider—they are a strategic ally who helps businesses optimize workflows, improve user adoption, and drive measurable results. So, what sets dependable partners apart? Here are the key traits to look for when selecting the right implementation team for your Dynamics 365 project. Reliable dynamics 365 implementation partners possess deep knowledge of the entire Microsoft ecosystem, not just Dynamics 365. This includes Power Platform, Azure, Microsoft 365, and other integrations that are often crucial to enterprise solutions. Certified technical teams are well-versed in customizing modules like Sales, Customer Service, Finance, Supply Chain, and Project Operations. A strong grasp of data modeling, workflow automation, security configurations, and API integrations enables these partners to build robust, scalable solutions tailored to your unique business requirements. One of the strongest indicators of a partner's capability is their experience within your industry. A reliable partner understands the specific challenges, compliance requirements, and workflows relevant to your sector, whether it's manufacturing, retail, healthcare, logistics, or finance. Partners with vertical specialization often provide pre-configured templates, accelerators, and best practices that reduce implementation time and increase project success rates. They don't just install software—they implement business solutions designed for your market. A well-defined implementation methodology is a hallmark of dependable dynamics 365 implementation partners. These methodologies include clear phases such as discovery, planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and post-launch support. Reliable partners apply agile or hybrid methodologies that involve continuous stakeholder engagement, iterative testing, and regular checkpoints. This structured approach helps manage scope, timelines, and budgets effectively, while also keeping the client involved and informed at every stage. Beyond technical implementation, successful deployment relies heavily on effective project management. Reliable partners assign experienced project managers who coordinate tasks, mitigate risks, and maintain communication between teams. They ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget while quickly resolving any roadblocks. Regular progress reports, milestone tracking, and clear documentation are signs of a partner that values transparency and accountability. A trustworthy partner doesn't disappear after go-live. Post-deployment support is a key component of long-term success. This includes troubleshooting, user training, performance monitoring, system updates, and feature enhancements. The best dynamics 365 implementation partners offer managed services, helpdesk support, and optimization audits to ensure the system continues evolving as business needs change. Long-term collaboration often results in better ROI and increased user satisfaction. No matter how advanced the software, it will fail without proper user adoption. Reliable partners place strong emphasis on training and change management. They deliver personalized training programs, create documentation, and offer hands-on workshops to help employees become comfortable and confident using the system. They also recognize that change is more than technical—it's cultural. Effective change management strategies help overcome resistance, increase engagement, and drive productivity across the organization. A proven track record is one of the clearest indicators of reliability. Reputable partners are happy to share case studies, testimonials, and client references that demonstrate their success. These real-world examples offer insight into the partner's strengths, approach, and ability to deliver value. If a partner has successfully completed multiple projects in your industry or business size, it's a strong signal that they can handle your requirements too. The best dynamics 365 implementation partners are not just implementers—they're innovators. They stay updated with Microsoft's evolving features, participate in industry events, and continually invest in their own capabilities. This commitment ensures your organization benefits from the latest tools, integrations, and strategies. A reliable partner brings fresh ideas to the table and helps future-proof your investment in Dynamics 365. Choosing the right implementation partner is one of the most critical decisions in your Dynamics 365 journey. The platform itself is powerful, but without the right guidance, its capabilities can remain underutilized. Reliable dynamics 365 implementation partners offer the technical skills, industry experience, and collaborative mindset needed to turn a software deployment into a business transformation. By focusing on the traits above, organizations can identify partners who not only meet their needs today but also support their growth and success well into the future. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Hi Dubai
20-06-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
DEWA Strengthens Digital Transformation with Microsoft to Advance AI and Sustainability goals
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has deepened its partnership with Microsoft UAE to accelerate its digital transformation, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and sustainable innovation across the utilities sector. HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, met with Naim Yazbeck, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, to explore new areas of collaboration that align with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the UAE Net Zero by 2050 initiative. The discussions highlighted the use of Microsoft's advanced technologies to drive operational efficiency and support next-generation infrastructure development. Al Tayer reaffirmed DEWA's ambition to become the world's first AI-native utility by fully integrating AI and cloud-based tools into its core operations. 'Our collaboration with Microsoft is instrumental in transforming DEWA into a model of sustainable, intelligent utility services,' he said. Yazbeck echoed the sentiment, stating Microsoft's commitment to supporting the UAE's digital economy by co-developing smart energy solutions that strengthen resilience and sustainability. DEWA's digital journey includes early adoption of AI since 2017 and the implementation of Microsoft's Power Platform and 365 Copilot. These tools have enhanced internal processes, boosted service quality, and improved customer satisfaction, reinforcing Dubai's position as a leader in innovation and green energy. News Source: Dubai Media Office
Time Business News
18-06-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
No-Code Revolution: How Dynamics 365 Partners Empower Citizen Developers
In the rapidly evolving landscape of enterprise software development, the rise of no-code (LCNC) platforms is transforming how businesses operate and innovate. Among the leaders championing this movement are microsoft dynamics implementation partners, who play a crucial role in enabling organizations to empower their citizen developers—non-technical employees who can now build apps and automate processes without deep programming skills. This revolution is not just about democratizing software development; it's about redefining digital agility across all levels of the business. no-code platforms are visual development environments that allow users to create applications through drag-and-drop interfaces, pre-built templates, and configuration options. The aim is to reduce the time and technical complexity associated with traditional development cycles. Microsoft's Power Platform, which integrates seamlessly with Dynamics 365, is one of the most powerful LCNC toolsets available. It includes Power Apps for app development, Power Automate for workflow automation, Power BI for data visualization, and Power Virtual Agents for chatbot creation. Together, these tools enable rapid innovation—particularly when deployed by a skilled Dynamics 365 partner who understands the nuances of enterprise integration. Citizen developers are business users who understand their department's specific needs and use low-code tools to develop solutions independently or in collaboration with IT. They are typically professionals in HR, sales, marketing, finance, and operations—not coders by training, but innovators by necessity. Instead of relying solely on IT departments bogged down with backlogs, citizen developers can build applications that solve day-to-day problems quickly and efficiently. This shift frees up IT resources for more strategic initiatives, while driving a culture of innovation across the organization. A Dynamics 365 partner is far more than just an implementation vendor. They are strategic enablers who: Provide governance frameworks for LCNC adoption for LCNC adoption Offer training programs for citizen developers for citizen developers Ensure proper integration with enterprise systems with enterprise systems Monitor compliance and security Guide app lifecycle management and scaling Let's dive into the specific ways Dynamics 365 partners empower organizations in the no-code era. One of the biggest risks of unregulated LCNC development is app sprawl—when too many untracked applications are built without proper oversight, leading to security, compliance, and performance issues. Dynamics 365 partners help organizations set up governance models to: Define who can build what Monitor app usage and performance Ensure that data connectors comply with internal policies Prevent duplication of effort and reduce shadow IT By establishing center-of-excellence (CoE) models, partners ensure LCNC success is scalable, repeatable, and secure. While low-code tools are easy to use, getting real value from them requires best practices and contextual knowledge. Dynamics 365 partners provide: Custom training programs tailored to different departments Online learning paths through Microsoft Learn and partner-specific platforms Hackathons and app challenges to spark interest and experimentation Mentorship between IT teams and business users These efforts help nurture an empowered and confident base of citizen developers who know how to use tools responsibly and effectively. Building an app is only part of the story. For an app to be valuable, it must integrate seamlessly with existing enterprise systems like CRM, ERP, HRMS, and third-party data sources. This is where a Dynamics 365 partner adds significant value. Partners bring architectural insight and experience to: Map data flows between Power Platform and Dynamics 365 modules Connect apps to finance, operations, or supply chain modules Integrate third-party APIs for additional functionality Implement Single Sign-On (SSO) and ensure compliance with Active Directory policies This integration expertise ensures that citizen-developed solutions are not siloed but embedded within enterprise ecosystems. LCNC tools democratize development, but they can also open new security vulnerabilities if unmanaged. Dynamics 365 partners help clients configure: Data Loss Prevention (DLP) policies policies Environment-level restrictions on app publishing on app publishing User roles and permissions to ensure least-privilege access to ensure least-privilege access Audit logs and monitoring tools to track changes and identify anomalies Partners also ensure compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, SOX, and other industry-specific regulations, which is critical in regulated sectors like healthcare, banking, and government. Creating a single app for a department is easy. But what happens when the app becomes mission-critical or needs to scale across geographies or business units? Dynamics 365 partners guide organizations through: Version control and change management and DevOps for Power Platform , using tools like Azure DevOps or GitHub Actions , using tools like Azure DevOps or GitHub Actions Testing and deployment pipelines Migration strategies from MVPs to enterprise-grade solutions This ensures that citizen-developed solutions can evolve into robust business applications without disruption or risk. In many organizations, IT and business departments operate in silos. LCNC adoption supported by Dynamics 365 partners creates an opportunity to bridge this gap. By involving both IT and business units in the co-creation of solutions, partners help: Build mutual trust and collaboration Ensure that business apps meet security and data integrity standards Drive digital transformation from the ground up This fusion development model, where IT and citizen developers collaborate in an agile environment, leads to faster delivery and better business outcomes. Perhaps the most transformative impact of no-code tools is the acceleration of innovation. Dynamics 365 partners help organizations: Build customer-facing portals faster Automate repetitive tasks with Power Automate Enable real-time dashboards for smarter decision-making Launch chatbots for customer support using Power Virtual Agents All of these capabilities allow businesses to adapt quickly to market changes—an essential trait in today's competitive environment. A large retail chain worked with a Dynamics 365 partner to roll out Power Apps across its store network. Store managers were trained to create their own inventory management and shift scheduling apps. Within six months: Over 60 custom apps were built by non-technical users Manual tasks reduced by 40% IT support requests dropped significantly Data entry errors decreased by 25% The Dynamics 365 partner provided governance, training, and lifecycle management, transforming the retailer's workforce into a team of innovators. The no-code revolution is not a passing trend—it's a foundational shift in how software is created and consumed. Citizen developers are becoming central to digital transformation, but their success hinges on strategic enablement. A Dynamics 365 partner is the catalyst that turns potential into performance. From governance to training, integration to lifecycle management, partners ensure that low-code adoption is not only efficient but also secure, compliant, and scalable. By empowering citizen developers, Dynamics 365 partners are helping organizations unlock untapped innovation and achieve digital agility like never before. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
10-06-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Why Your Managed Service Provider Should Also Be a Cloud Solution Provider
As businesses increasingly migrate to the cloud, working with the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) can make a substantial difference—not just in IT support but also in cost savings, flexibility, and strategic advantage. If you're working with an MSP in London, you may not realise that your provider can also act as a Cloud Solution Provider (CSP)—reselling Microsoft and other cloud-based subscriptions, often at better rates than buying directly. But not all MSPs are created equal. In this article, we explore what it means for an MSP to be a CSP, the types of licences available, and what you need to know about Microsoft's New Commerce Experience (NCE). We'll also look at how licence discounts work—and why some Managed Service Providers pass those savings on to clients, while others quietly pocket the margin. A Cloud Solution Provider is an IT partner authorised by Microsoft (and other vendors) to sell cloud services and licences directly to businesses. This includes everything from Microsoft 365 and Azure to more specialised services like Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and Intune. When your MSP in London is also a CSP, they can manage the entire lifecycle of your cloud subscriptions, from billing and provisioning to support and renewal. This approach provides businesses with one point of contact for both day-to-day IT needs and cloud licensing—reducing administrative overhead and improving accountability. Purchasing your licences through a CSP linked to your Managed Service Provider offers several practical advantages: Simplified Billing: One consolidated monthly invoice for all cloud services. One consolidated monthly invoice for all cloud services. Direct Support: The same trusted team supporting your network also manages your cloud licences. The same trusted team supporting your network also manages your cloud licences. Flexibility: Easier to scale licences up or down as business needs change. Easier to scale licences up or down as business needs change. Cost Efficiency: Potential access to better pricing and discounts than buying directly from Microsoft. At Proxar IT Consulting, we've found that combining cloud licensing and IT support creates a more efficient, integrated experience for our clients—particularly in regulated or high-demand sectors. When working with a CSP, businesses gain access to a broad catalogue of licences tailored to different roles and industries. These typically include: Business Basic / Standard / Premium Enterprise plans (E1, E3, E5) F1/F3 for frontline workers Pay-as-you-go infrastructure and services Reserved Instances for longer-term savings Microsoft Defender for Endpoint / Cloud Microsoft Purview for governance Sales, Customer Service, Marketing, etc. Microsoft Teams Rooms licences Power BI Pro & Premium Visio, Project, and other productivity add-ons Many MSPs also offer bundled packages tailored to industry sectors, combining support services with licensing in a single monthly cost. Microsoft's New Commerce Experience (NCE) has changed the way cloud subscriptions are purchased and managed. Launched to simplify and standardise commercial licensing, NCE offers three key subscription terms: Monthly Commitment: Higher flexibility, higher cost Higher flexibility, higher cost Annual Commitment: Lower pricing, but fixed for a year Lower pricing, but fixed for a year 36-Month Commitment: Longest-term savings, ideal for stable teams Under NCE, businesses need to commit more deliberately to licence volumes and terms. While it introduces some rigidity, it also encourages better forecasting and budgeting. When working with an MSP who understands NC, businesses receive clear guidance on choosing the right term and avoiding unnecessary over-provisioning. Cloud licence pricing from Microsoft is subject to a partner discount structure. While MSPs typically receive anything upto 15% off the Recommended Retail Price (RRP), what they pass on to clients varies. Some MSPs absorb the discount as profit, charging clients full RRP without transparency. Others, however, pass the savings on—either in full or in part—helping their clients keep operational costs down. Not all providers offer the same level of service or ethics when it comes to cloud licensing. When choosing a Managed Service Provider in London, look for: Authorised CSP Status Ensure the provider is certified by Microsoft as a direct or indirect CSP. Ensure the provider is certified by Microsoft as a direct or indirect CSP. Transparent Pricing Ask for a breakdown of licence costs and what discounts (if any) are being passed on. Ask for a breakdown of licence costs and what discounts (if any) are being passed on. Expert NCE Knowledge Navigating NCE can be complex. Your provider should offer advice tailored to your business model. Navigating NCE can be complex. Your provider should offer advice tailored to your business model. Integrated Support Licensing should be part of a holistic IT strategy, not an isolated service. Licensing should be part of a holistic IT strategy, not an isolated service. Scalability As your business grows, your IT partner should help scale licensing efficiently. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
