FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/599   

Ever wondered how a technologist with decades of experience balances a vibrant personal life and a transformative career? Our latest episode features Mark Slosberg, the mastermind behind Hanging Valley Enterprises. With a rich history in the tech world and 42 years of marriage, Mark shares his love for cooking in a kitchen tailored for two type-A chefs, his passion for smoking meats and fish, and his joy in hosting family pizza nights. Outside the kitchen, Mark and his wife are committed hikers and gardeners, transforming their property near Seattle into a low-maintenance haven filled with native plant species.

Mark's professional journey is equally compelling. He recalls advocating for SQL Server 2008 at Chevron and spearheading the Microsoft practice at PwC, which significantly integrated Power BI and early PowerApps adoption. His story doesn't end there; after leaving PwC, Mark took on groundbreaking projects using PowerApps and Azure AI, including a successful application for a major seed distributor. His insights reveal how these tools have revolutionized business processes and data management, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of technology in consulting.

In a detailed case study, Mark illustrates the power of custom solutions in business technology. He recounts developing a seed distribution app for an agriculture firm struggling with an outdated JD Edwards system. By prototyping with Power Apps and Power BI, Mark's team enhanced data access and streamlined sales operations. Furthermore, he shares a transformative experience with a billion-dollar firm, where leveraging SQL Server and standardizing data views turned around an underperforming Cognos implementation. Tune in to learn how integrating Power Apps with JD Edwards using APIs can revolutionize backend operations and ensure long-term system efficiency.

Resources Mentioned
First solution in the Microsoft AppSource online solution catalog - https://appsource.microsoft.com/en-us/product/dynamics-365/hangingvalleyenterprisesllc1645487787841.salesenable  

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/CopilotAdoption

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Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith