Polaris is a production of Synozur – the transformation company. Synozur reimagines business for our clients, navigating the complexities of transformation and strategy with ease.

In this episode of Polaris, Chris McNulty speaks with Sean Squires, Principal Product Manager at Microsoft, about the evolving landscape of software development, particularly in the realm of content management and AI. They discuss the challenges posed by the massive data explosion, the role of AI in enhancing content findability, and the importance of customer empathy in product management. Sean shares insights into the balance between creating minimally viable products and those that are lovable, as well as the impact of AI on product development processes. The conversation also touches on the cultural aspects of technology and personal reflections on creativity and inspiration.

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Polaris is available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Thanks.

Quotes

"Customer empathy is the cornerstone of building a good product." – Sean Squires

"A minimum viable product must quickly become a minimum lovable product." – Sean Squires

"Whenever we build a feature, we ask: where's the magical moment for the user?" – Sean Squires

"Some of the best ideas I've seen come directly from customers and the community." – Sean Squires

References Data and Business

IDC estimates 175 zettabytes of data worldwide by 2025, with ~80% of it unstructured and 90% of unstructured data never analyzed –

Global Intelligent Document Processing market size growing from $1.1B (2022) to $5.2B by 2027 at 37.5%

Major League Baseball – ~63% of surveyed MLB players do not want robot umpires (Automated Ball-Strike system), preferring the human element – https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25204707-mlb-pitcher-says-potential-abs-robot-umpire-rule-change-would-ruin-baseball

Henry Ford's "faster horse" quote – "If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said a faster horse." (Often attributed to Ford to illustrate innovation beyond customer requests; actual origin is apocryphal) – https://quoteinvestigator.com/2011/07/28/ford-faster-horse/

Steven Sinofsky – "Learning by Shipping" – Blog by former Microsoft Windows president Steven Sinofsky, discussing tech, management, and strategies (includes commentary on AI and product development) – https://learningbyshipping.com/

"Unsolicited Feedback" podcast – A weekly product & growth podcast by Reforge, featuring candid discussions between product leaders on recent tech trends and product decisions – https://www.reforge.com/podcast/unsolicited-feedback

Google NotebookLM – An AI-powered research and note-taking tool by Google that can summarize documents and even generate podcast-like audio discussions from your notes (an experimental project formerly known as Project Tailwind) – https://notebooklm.google/

ModuleQ – An "People-Facing AI" startup founded by David Brunner, which integrates with Microsoft Teams to deliver personalized, proactive insights to professionals (example of AI in enterprise workflow) – https://www.moduleq.com/

Pop Culture

"The Pitt" – The Pitt (2025) is a new medical drama TV series set in a Pittsburgh trauma hospital's ER, noted for its realistic portrayal of medical staff and intense single-shift story structure (starring Noah Wyle) – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Pitt

"A Day in the Life" – Iconic 1967 song by The Beatles (from Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band), known for its elaborate production – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADayintheLife

Sir George Martin – Renowned record producer for The Beatles, often called "the Fifth Beatle" for shaping their sound – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Martin

Irving Berlin's transposing piano – Songwriter Irving Berlin used a custom piano with a transposing lever so he could play in one key (F#) and the piano would shift the pitch, allowing him to accompany in any key – https://www.straightdope.com/21343780/if-irving-berlin-couldn-t-read-or-write-music-how-did-he-compose

The Ministry of Time (novel) – The Ministry of Time is a 2024 science fiction novel by Kaliane Bradley, exploring time travel and identity. It gained attention as one of Barack Obama's recommended summer reads in 2024 – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TheMinistryofTime(novel)

Leon (Leon Bridges album) – Leon (released October 2024) is the fourth studio album by R&B/soul artist Leon Bridges. The album blends retro soul with folk and country influences and has received positive reviews for its storytelling and style – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leon(LeonBridges_album)

The Intrazone podcast – The Intrazone is a Microsoft 365 podcast (hosted by Mark Kashman and oft-co-hosted by Chris McNulty) that ran from 2018–2025, covering SharePoint and Microsoft 365 topics. (It announced a pause after 220+ episodes in mid-2025) – https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/36825055

Events

Business Strategy Master Class | June 17, 2025 (Teams Online) Synozur's own Matt Shaffer will present our new master class on how to develop and sustain business strategy with the Synozur Company OS. https://aka.synozur.com/strategy-masterclass

TechCon 365 Seattle | June 23-27, 2025 (Seattle Convention Center)

FY26 Forward - Microsoft Partner Success Strategies - July 29, 2025. A fireside chat about Microsoft's plans for its new fiscal year and how partners can align for success.

TechCon 365 Atlanta | August 11-15 at the Georgia World Congress Center.

TechCon 365 Dallas - | November 3-7, 2025 (Dallas, TX). Irving Convention Center

Microsoft Ignite 2025 – Nov 17-21, 2025 (San Francisco, CA).

ESPC25 (European SharePoint Conference 2025) | Dec 1-4, 2025 (Convention Centre Dublin (CCD) Dublin, Ireland).

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sean Squires and His Role at Microsoft

06:53 The Role of a Product Manager

09:18 A Day in the Life of a Product Manager

12:25 Navigating Product Development Challenges

15:29 The Balance Between MVP and MLP

18:02 Creating Delightful User Experiences

21:07 Customer Needs vs. Innovative Solutions

24:15 The Importance of Customer Feedback

27:11 Working with Familiar vs. New Tech Stacks

30:02 AI's Impact on Product Development

32:34 Staying Inspired in Product Management

38:58 Introduction to Upcoming Events

40:27 Reflections on Podcasting and Future Directions

Polaris is a production of Synozur – the transformation company. Synozur reimagines business for our clients, navigating the complexities of transformation and strategy with ease.

Summary

In this conversation, Chris McNulty and David Wilhelm discuss the challenges of AI adoption in enterprises, emphasizing the importance of training and expertise. They explore the evolution of TechCon 365, highlighting the benefits of mid-sized tech events, community engagement, and the diversity of attendees. The discussion also covers the direct engagement opportunities available at these events and the upcoming plans for future conferences.

Sound Bites

"At a 600-person event, you're not just a number – attendees feel seen and heard." — David Wilhelm

"As Microsoft's world grows, our community grows with it. We just give them more to explore at each event." — David Wilhelm

"Not everyone can fly to Vegas or SF for a mega-conference. Regional events open the door for folks who'd be left out otherwise." — David Wilhelm

"A conference isn't just sessions. Like a great local restaurant, it can become a place where everybody knows your name." — David Wilhelm

References News and Data Points

Gartner (July 27, 2023) – Press release reporting that 52% of organizations say risk factors are a critical consideration when evaluating new AI projects. https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2023-07-27-gartner-survey-finds-55-of-organizations-that-have-deployed-ai-take-an-ai-first-strategy-with-new-use-cases

IBM (Jan 10, 2024) – IBM Global AI Adoption Index 2023 research found limited AI skills and expertise is the top barrier to AI adoption (~33% of enterprises cite this). https://newsroom.ibm.com/2024-01-10-Data-Suggests-Growth-in-Enterprise-Adoption-of-AI-is-Due-to-Widespread-Deployment-by-Early-Adopters

SS&C Blue Prism (Mar 28, 2025) – Global survey of business leaders: 35% cite lack of AI skills/expertise as a major barrier to adopting AI (tied for #1 barrier). https://www.blueprism.com/resources/blog/ai-agentic-agents-survey-statistics/

Microsoft Global Community Initiative (MGCI) – Microsoft's program to support community-led events worldwide (e.g., Community Days). https://adoption.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-global-community-initiative/

Social: David Wilhelm | LinkedIn

Pop Culture

Chef's Table (Netflix series) – Documentary series showcasing world-class chefs; referenced as an analogy for community building. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chef%27s_Table

Cheers (TV sitcom) – 1980s sitcom set in a bar "where everybody knows your name"; referenced to describe a welcoming community vibe. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheers

The Bear (FX/Hulu series) – TV series about a Chicago restaurant, popularized the phrase "Yes, chef." Referenced humorously in the episode. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bear_(TV_series)

Events

Mastering Your AI Rollout: Success Strategies | June 12, 2025 (TribalHub Online)

Business Strategy Master Class | June 17, 2025 (Teams Online)

TechCon 365 Seattle | June 23-27, 2025 (Seattle Convention Center)

FY26 Forward - Microsoft Partner Success Strategies - July 29 (Teams Webinar)

TechCon 365 Atlanta | August 11-15 (Georgia World Congress Cente)r.

TechCon 365 Dallas - | November 3-7, 2025 (Irving Convention Center)

Microsoft Ignite 2025 – Nov 17-21, 2025 (San Francisco, CA).

ESPC25 | December 1-4, 2025 (Convention Centre Dublin (CCD) Ireland)

Fabric Community Conference (FabCon) – Microsoft Fabric Community Conference (upcoming event focusing on Microsoft Fabric and data/A.I.). https://fabricconf.com

Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Polaris is available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Thanks.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Wilhelm and Tech Conferences

04:12 The Evolution of Tech Conferences

07:32 Transitioning from SharePoint to Microsoft 365

11:51 The Benefits of Mid-Sized Events

15:25 Diversity and Accessibility in Tech Events

18:29 Engagement Opportunities for First-Time Attendees

21:37 Upcoming Events and Future Plans

24:43 Community Building Through Food and Events

26:44 Staying Connected with David Wilhelm

27:40 Conclusion

Generative AI is reshaping the business world by accelerating sales and customer engagement. In this episode of Polaris, Zack Zeller shares how thought leadership and engaging content can fuel the AI-powered revenue flywheel. From practical frameworks to emotional resonance in marketing, Zack explores how AI can amplify authenticity, streamline content creation, and drive meaningful business outcomes.

📌 Key Takeaways

AI as a Catalyst: AI is not just a tool—it's a catalyst for deeper customer connections and more efficient marketing systems.

The Revenue Flywheel: Thought leadership and personalized content can accelerate the sales cycle and deepen engagement.

Authenticity Wins: In a sea of generic AI content, uniqueness and personality are key to standing out.

AI as Actor, Not Expert: Zack likens AI to an actor—it performs best when given strong direction and context.

Voice-Driven Campaigns: With the right prompts, a voice note can be transformed into a full marketing campaign.

Books as Brand Builders: Long-form content like books helps establish credibility and deepen trust.

Misconceptions About AI: Many overestimate AI's capabilities; success depends on specificity, iteration, and context.

Marketing Systems Over Funnels: Zack emphasizes building holistic systems over isolated conversion tactics.

🧠 Soundbites from Zack

"Generative AI isn't just a tool—it's a catalyst for deeper customer connections."

"The revenue flywheel powered by AI is revolutionizing how businesses think about growth."

"Every piece of thought leadership today can be amplified with AI, driving real results."

"AI bridges the gap between efficiency and engagement, unlocking new possibilities for sales."

"If you don't have uniqueness, you're just warming up your audience to buy from your competition."

"Procrastinate on the right stuff—focus on one thing that pierces the market."

References About Zack Zeller:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackzeller22

Free Gift at FixYourList.com

Research

AI in Sales: According to a recent report by Gartner, 75% of B2B sales organizations will augment traditional sales playbooks with AI-based guidance by the end of the year. Gartner Predicts 75% of B2B Sales Organizations Will Augment Traditional Sales Playbooks with AI-Guided Selling Solutions By 2025

Microsoft, the AI powerhouse, is also addressing this trend. In March, they announced two new agents. Sales Agent works autonomously to expand pipeline, engage customers, and even complete a sale, while Sales Chat can help guide revenue teams to the next best action. Finally they've introduced a new AI accelerator to drive CRM system migration and help with adoption. New sales agents accessible in Microsoft 365 Copilot help teams close more deals, faster | Microsoft 365 Blog

Content Marketing: A study by Forbes highlights that 70% of marketers are actively investing in content marketing, with a focus on creating high-quality, engaging content to attract and retain customers. Top Content Marketing Statistics – Forbes Advisor

Other

Poe - AI Chat

Primal (Adult Swim) from Genndy Tartakovsky

Andy Warhol's Soup Cans from the Museum of Modern Art, New York

The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement Book Summary by Eliyahu M. Goldratt

Events

European Collaboration Summit | May 26-28, 2025 (Düsseldorf, Germany)

Mastering Your AI Rollout: Success Strategies | June 12, 2025 (TribalHub Online)

Business Strategy Master Class | June 17, 2025 (Teams Online)

TechCon 365 Seattle | June 23-27, 2025 (Seattle Convention Center)

Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Polaris is available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Thanks.

Chapters

00:02 – Introduction: Generative AI and the Revenue Flywheel

03:04 – Meet Zack Zeller: From College Hustle to AI Marketing Expert

05:00 – Post-Pandemic Economics and the Rise of Precision Marketing

07:22 – AI's Role in Reach, Engagement, and Conversion

09:41 – Breaking the Pattern: Authenticity in AI Content

12:11 – Conversion and the Emotional Side of Sales

14:07 – Tools and Tactics: Using AI to Support Sales Agents

17:19 – Visual AI: Spotting the Real from the Rendered

19:26 – Case Study: AI-Assisted Book Creation with Richard Vanderbloom

21:00 – Why Thought Leaders Should Write Books

24:28 – Zack's 3-Step Framework: Facts, Thesis, Mechanism

26:05 – Finding Your Voice and Market Entry Point

27:43 – AI Misconceptions and the Importance of Context

29:43 – Voice Notes to Campaigns: Zack's Prompting Strategy

32:02 – Future of AI in Marketing: Systems Thinking

36:23 – Pop Culture Pick: "Primal" and the Power of Wordless Storytelling

38:36 – Connect with Zack: LinkedIn and FixYourList.com

Polaris is a production of Synozur – the transformation company. Synozur reimagines business for our clients, navigating the complexities of transformation and strategy with ease.

Summary

In this episode of Polaris, Mark Kashman and Chris McNulty explore the evolution of the Microsoft 365 community, emphasizing the importance of personal engagement. They discuss the role of internal advocates in technology adoption, the excitement surrounding new features, and the value of the TechCommunity. The conversation also touches on automation, collaboration, and the significance of events like the Microsoft 365 Community Conference, highlighting the joy of audience interaction during AMAs and the cultural insights gained through personal growth.

References Microsoft and the Community

• Community Days.org is the home to find or create on of the dozens of Microsoft community events held around the world every year.
• You can always join the Microsoft Tech Community here.

Mark Kashman

• LinkedIn
• X/Twitter
• The KashBox on Substack
• Mark is also an author of many children's books, also available on Amazon.

Pop Culture

• Mark Kashman is a fan of Frederik Backman, the prolific Swedish author perhaps best know for A man Called Ove, also made into the Tom Hanks film A Man Called Otto
• Smartless is the podcast voice of Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes, who have not yet been guests on Polaris.

Events

• Microsoft 365 Community Conference | May 5-8, 2025 (MGM Grand, Las Vegas)
• Microsoft Build | May 19-22 (Seattle Convention Center)
• European Collaboration Summit | May 26-28, 2025 (Düsseldorf, Germany)
• Mastering Your AI Rollout: Success Strategies | June 12, 2025 (TribalHub Online)
• Business Strategy Master Class | June 17, 2025 (Teams Online)
• TechCon 365 Seattle | June 23-27, 2025 (Seattle Convention Center)

Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Takeaways

• Mark Kashman has been with SharePoint for over a decade.
• Community engagement is crucial for technology adoption.
• Understanding when to use specific tools is essential.
• Internal advocates play a vital role in technology adoption.
• The TechCommunity provides a platform for engagement and feedback.

Sound Bites

• "If we can get a good ear to that evangelist who isn't just an MVP, but maybe is to hopefully scale through thousands or hundreds of people within their organization. That's where we really focus on."
• "Business should ensure that [advocates] have a seat at the table. They should know the direction of the business. What are we trying to accomplish? What tools do we have? They'll be able to provide guidance, they can be that internal trusted advisor."
• What makes a customer exec take notice of new technology? "A big one is around what can you do inside of Microsoft Teams?"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mark Kashman

08:21 Mark's Role at Microsoft

11:27 Navigating Microsoft 365 Tools

17:16 Understanding Task Management Tools

20:35 Engaging with Microsoft Customers

23:45 Empowering Internal Advocates

25:31 Exciting Tools in Executive Briefings

29:59 Exploring the Tech Community

31:56 Practical Insights for Tech Users

36:05 Automation and Rules in Microsoft 365

38:41 Sports and Community Engagement

41:11 Microsoft 365 Community Conference Overview

47:24 The Joy of AMAs and Audience Engagement

51:13 Cultural Reflections and Book Recommendations

56:29 Upcoming Tech Events and Conferences

58:35 The Importance of Community in Technology

58:42 Reflections

01:00:53 Reflections and Closing Thoughts

Polaris is a production of Synozur – the transformation company. Synozur reimagines business for our clients, navigating the complexities of transformation and strategy with ease.

In this episode of Polaris, Chris McNulty engages with Dr. John Hillen, author of 'The Strategy Dialogues', to explore the complexities of business strategy. They discuss the common misunderstandings surrounding strategy, the importance of dialogue in strategy development, and how to bring strategic thinking into everyday business practices. Dr. Hillen emphasizes the need for clear definitions of strategy, the distinction between strategic planning and thinking, and the critical questions organizations should ask to define their strategic direction. The conversation also touches on the significance of values, the role of networking in strategic relationships, and innovative approaches like blue ocean strategy. Finally, they address the pitfalls of annual strategy cycles and the importance of measuring strategic success.

Dr. John Hillen is a versatile leader with an impressive background spanning business, government, the military, and academia. As a CEO, Board Chairman, and former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, he's navigated complex strategic landscapes and shared his insights through teaching at notable institutions like Duke University and George Mason University. An author of several influential books, including 'What Happens Now? Reinvent Yourself as a Leader Before Your Business Outruns You,' Dr. Hillen has also contributed to prestigious publications such as Forbes and The New York Times. He also holds two masters' degrees, a Ph. D from Oxford, and a Fulbright Scholarship.

Polaris is available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Thanks.

References Interview Notes

Our guest, Dr. John Hillen, is the author of The Strategy Dialogues.

You can get in touch with him through his website, JohnHillen,com

Andrew Ross Sorkin also used narrative dialogue to tell the story of the 2008 financial crisis in Too Big to Fail

"The undiscovered country from whose bourn no traveller returns." – William Shakespeare, Hamlet, Act 3 Scene 1. – see AllGreatQuotes.com

Norm Augustine, Lockheed Martin CEO, looked at the business implication of Shakespeare's work in Shakespeare in Charge: The Bard's Guide to Leading and Succeeding on the Business Stage

Lee Iacocca thought about the minivan at Ford, but made it a reality at Chrysler in 1983 - The History of the Minivan – Smithsonian Magazine 2013

Cirque du Soleil is known for their global stage shows and traveling performances – learn more about their origin at How Cirque Du Soleil's Strategy Reinvented The Circus (Instrategia)

Heidi Roisen is legendary for making strategic leadership networks through Silicon Valley.

Statistics and Data Points

According to a survey conducted by Forbes Coaches Council, 90% of respondents believe a strategy is necessary to carry out business activities. But only 14% of executives indicated they had fulfilled their strategic plan from the prior year. [Source: The Importance Of Strategic Planning For Business Success, Forbes]

Based on a study by ClearPoint, 80% of leaders feel their company is good at crafting strategy, but only 44% feel they are good at implementation. [Source: 50+ Strategic Planning Stats: Boost Your Strategy Success – ClearPoint]

Pop Culture

The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Wikipedia

The Godfather (1972) - IMDb

The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Wikipedia

Slow Horses

Succession – won six Emmys in 2024 to bring its t9tal to 19. - How Many Emmys Did Succession Win in 2024? - Parade

Events

Microsoft 365 Community Conference | May 5-8, 2025 (Vegas)

Microsoft Build | May 19-22 (Seattle Convention Center)

European Collaboration Summit | May 26-28, 2025 (Düsseldorf, Germany)

Mastering Your AI Rollout: Success Strategies | June 12, 2025 (TribalHub Online)

TechCon 365 Seattle - June 23-27, 2025

Takeaways

• Strategy is often misunderstood and misapplied in organizations.
• Dialogue is a powerful tool for developing and understanding strategy.
• Strategic planning is not the same as strategic thinking.
• Key questions like 'What is our winning aspiration?' are essential for effective strategy.
• Building strategic thinking skills is vital for leaders and organizations.
• Networking and relationships are integral to successful strategic leadership.
• Blue ocean strategy encourages companies to seek untapped markets.
• Avoiding the annual strategy trap requires continuous measurement and adaptation.

Sound Bites

• "I think the A question in strategy is not what to do, but what do we not do? What do we not spend?"
• "Trying to see patterns emerging in the future...because the future rarely follows a perfectly linear path...[is what] strategic thinking really is versus the annual corporate budgeting drill is. That's the number one reason why I see people resisting...true strategic thinking and planning."
• "Everybody's got the strategic thinking muscle, even though only a small percentage ... naturally think strategically, but everybody can build that muscle."
• "[On strategic networking] If you wait until you need a [strategic] relationship, it's too late to form it."
• "[Blue Ocean Strategy] Instead of seeking out the most competitive environment where everybody's fighting for the customers and the ocean is red from all the blood in the water, go to where the customers ain't, but you could provide a value proposition that could draw new customers there."
• "Let's go where the enemy ain't."

Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. John Hillen

04:25 Introducing Dr. John Hillen

07:00 The Strategy Dialogues: A Narrative Approach

11:29 Bringing Strategy Down to Earth

15:24 Defining Strategy vs. Goals

18:10 Key Questions for Strategic Thinking

21:24 Success in Strategy: The IKEA Example

24:33 Cultivating Strategic Thinking Skills

29:14 The Power of Networking in Leadership

34:28 Understanding Blue Ocean Strategy

44:08 Avoiding Common Strategic Pitfalls

45:57 Cultural Reflections and Personal Insights

49:47 Staying in Touch

50:57 Upcoming Events

53:04 Wrap-Up and Acknowledgments

Join us as Jeff Teper and Karuana Gatimu discuss how to transform your future at the Microsoft 365 Community Conference ("M365CC"), highlighting key innovations and offering insights into what attendees can expect at this year's event.

Polaris is a production of Synozur – the transformation company. Synozur reimagines business for our clients, navigating the complexities of transformation and strategy with ease.

References

Any time we speak with Jeff and Karuana, you can expect a fairly extensive reference and reading list.

News and Data

Live events are back. According to Allied Market Research, after most events disappeared in 2020 and 2021, the events industry is expected to reach $1,552.9 billion by 2028, growing at more than 11% annually.

Learning how to apply AI correctly is crucial. McKinsey is projecting generative AI can add over $4.4 trillion in corporate profits, with significant boosts to productivity form AI and automations Source: McKinsey

Microsoft 365 Community Conference 2025

Visit the official website to learn more and get $150 off registration with the code SAVE150

Microsoft's quick guide to the M365 Conference from Mark Kashman

History of the M365 Conference and SharePoint Conference

It's Microsoft's 50th anniversary, so we're also looking back at key moments in the history of this conference and its predecessor. We're building an oral history from its origins in 2008 as the SharePoint Conference through 2025. You can share your story and we'll compile the best for future podcasts on Polaris and from Microsoft.

Here are some highlights over the years.

• Bill Gates kicked off the very first SharePoint Conference (SPC) in March 2008 by announcing availability for SharePoint Online and Exchange Online
• Huey Lewis and the news were the entertainment highlights at SPC in October 2009
• SPC 2011 was held at Disneyland in Anaheim, CA, and people literally danced to get in.
• It wasn't "SPC" but Microsoft set the stage for a decade of cloud innovation at the "Future of SharePoint" event in San Francisco, May 4, 2016.
• Jeff also reflected on the return of SPC in 2018, and getting s to share the B-52s with everyone.

Microsoft Resources & Updates

• Microsoft Tech Community – home for discussions, resources and blogs across all Microsoft technologies.
• CommunityDays.org – Odds are good there's 'a Microsoft community event happening near you soon – and this site can tell you where and when,
• SharePoint Hackathon Spring 2025 Details on GitHub, and award winners will be recognized in May 2025 at M365CC.
• January 2025 SharePoint Event – the latest updates on AI, agents and page designs for your intranet.
• Most recently, Microsoft released their new Researcher and Analyst agent to develop deep, rich answers to complex questions, as Jeff discussed on the show.

Culture References

Some of the games and TV shows covered include:

• The Pitt on HBO Max features Noah Wyle from ER in his return to medical television. Recommended by Jeff.
• Hacks is also on HBO Max, and recommended by Karuana.
• Severance on Apple TV has been a brain teaser for many of us this year. What exactly is "Macro Data Refinement"? And if you want to try moving numbers around on a screen for fun, Sudoku may be as close as you get. Until you try the Lumon MDR web site.

Events

• M365 Philly | April 26, 2025 (Microsoft Innovation Hub in Malvern PA)
• Microsoft 365 Community Conference | May 5-8, 2025 (Vegas)
• Microsoft Build | May 19-22, 2025 (Seattle Convention Center)
• TechCon 365 Seattle June 23-27, 2025 (Seattle Convention Center)

Summary

In this conversation, Chris McNulty speaks with Jeff Teper and Karuana Gatimu about the upcoming Microsoft 365 Community Conference. They discuss the innovations in Microsoft products, the importance of community engagement, and how technology impacts personal and professional growth. The conversation also touches on the future of AI and its applications in the workplace, emphasizing the significance of understanding the 'why' behind technology. The discussion concludes with excitement for the conference and the opportunities it presents for networking and learning.

Takeaways

• The Microsoft 365 Community Conference is the best place to connect with the best community in technology today.
• Community engagement is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Understanding the 'why' behind technology enhances its value.
• Networking at conferences can significantly impact careers.
• Microsoft fosters a culture of support and opportunity.
• The conference will showcase new features and innovations.

Sound Bites

"We can't wait to see everyone there."

Jeff Teper

· One thing that's great about this place is we can reflect and celebrate and be nostalgic, but don't feel like you need any of that shared history. Let's go invent the future together. And this will be the best place to do that too. Not just celebrate.

· It is just unbelievable to work in a team on a product that has that kind of impact on people. I mean, you're supposed to leave the planet better than you found it. And it's not just about winning some technology race. It's about helping people have a sense of fulfillment and purpose that really, at the end of the day, gets me most motivated.

· Sometimes I'm up there thinking, if there's one person, just one person in the room who has no idea why they showed up to this conference, their boss made them and they're sitting like, what is this thing? If we can inspire that one person to use technology, to have an impact on others so they can have an impact on themselves, that's kind of what we're trying to do.

Karuana Gatimu

We have a community lounge…and there we have a tremendous amount of meetups, a facilitated way that you can meet other IT professionals. We'll have community reporters throughout the event, doing interviews and recaps. We'll have some fantastic interviews with the product group folks.

Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:39 Background on the Microsoft 365 Community Conference

01:12 Terms and Data Points

02:31 Welcoming Jeff Teper and Karuana Gatimu

04:54 The Evolution of Microsoft Collaboration Tools

06:50 Understanding the M365 Community Conference

09:41 AI and Innovation in Microsoft Products

12:33 Connecting with the Community

15:11 Maximizing Conference Experience

17:29 The Importance of Community Engagement

19:43 Inspiring Impact Through Technology

21:00 Leadership and Community at Microsoft

21:50 Empowerment and Opportunities in Tech

22:37 Building Partnerships and Community Engagement

24:11 The Future of AI and Its Applications

28:00 Memorable Moments from SharePoint Conferences and M365

30:43 The World of Pop Culture

34:34 Upcoming Conferences and Events

36:32 Contest

37:01 Remembrance of Conferences Past

40:30 Wrap-Up and Acknowledgments

Polaris is a production of Synozur – the transformation company. We reimagine business for our clients, navigating the complexities of transformation and strategy with ease.

In this episode, Mark Struczewski, known as Mr. Productivity, discusses the challenges of maintaining focus in a world filled with distractions, particularly the impact of attention residue. He emphasizes the importance of effective meetings, personal definitions of success, and the hidden forms of procrastination that can hinder productivity. Mark also highlights the role of AI as a powerful tool for enhancing productivity and encourages a growth mindset for continuous improvement.

Sound Bites

• "FOMO is real. We don't want to wait."
• "Attention residue is real."
• "Everybody procrastinates."
• "You can either fight AI or use it."
• "Productivity isn't about doing more; it's about doing what matters most."
• "Efficiency comes from smart strategies, not just hard work."

References Mr. Productivity

You can follow up with Mark through his website, https://misterproductivity.com/ or on LinkedIn.

One of Mark's favorite pieces of pop culture is the time management book The 5AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.: Sharma, Robin: 9781443456623: Amazon.com: Books.

Impact of Digital Distractions on Productivity

According to a study by RescueTime, the average worker spends only 2 hours and 48 minutes per day on productive tasks. The rest of the time is often consumed by digital distractions such as social media, emails, and other non-work-related activities. Source: RescueTime

A report by Udemy found that 70% of workers feel distracted during work hours, with 16% stating that they are almost always distracted. Source: Udemy

Rise of AI Tools in Enhancing Productivity

A recent report by McKinsey & Company highlights that AI adoption has the potential to increase global productivity by up to 1.4% annually. Source: McKinsey & Company

Growing Importance of Personalized Productivity Coaching

The demand for personalized productivity coaching has surged, especially with the shift to remote work. A survey by the International Coach Federation (ICF) found that 89% of coaching clients reported improved work performance and 70% reported improved time management skills. Source: ICF

Multitasking

Think you're a great multitasker? Read on to learn why you're probably not as good as you think. Opinion | A Focus on Distraction - The New York Times]

Events

Microsoft 365 Community Conference | May 5-8, 2025 (Vegas) .

European Collaboration Summit | May 26-28, 2025 (Düsseldorf, Germany)

TechCon 365 Seattle | June 23-27, 2025

Takeaways

• Many people feel overwhelmed due to constant technology bombardment.
• Prioritization is key to achieving goals.
• Reviewing daily tasks can enhance productivity.
• Writing things down can relieve cognitive load.
• People often switch productivity tools unnecessarily.
• Technology can both aid and hinder productivity. Attention residue affects our ability to focus on tasks.
• Defining personal success is crucial for motivation and productivity.
• Procrastination is a common human experience that everyone faces.
• Establishing boundaries between work and personal life is essential.
• Buffer time between meetings can reduce stress and improve focus.
• Effective time management is key to maximizing productivity.

Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Productivity

01:17 Super Bowl Recap

02:02 Trends and Data Points

03:27 Introducing Mr. Productivity

08:43 Understanding Client Needs and Clarity

13:45 The Importance of Prioritization and Time Management

17:46 Technical Mastery

18:40 Navigating Technology and Productivity Tools

20:41 The Impact of Attention Residue

21:50 Rethinking Meetings for Productivity

26:22 Defining Personal Success in Productivity

27:46 Hidden Forms of Productivity and Procrastination

32:07 Embracing AI as a Productivity Tool

34:39 The Importance of a Growth Mindset

37:33 Upcoming Events

38:36 Conclusion

Polaris is a production of Synozur – the transformation company, navigating the complexities of strategy and planning with ease.

In this conversation, Chris McNulty and Michael Cutajar explore the transformative potential of AI-powered interactive avatars in business. Michael is the CEO and founder of InteractiveAvatars.AI. They discuss the current state of the digital avatar market, the capabilities of avatars, and the challenges of customer acceptance. Michael shares insights on how avatars can enhance customer experiences, the ethical considerations surrounding their use, and the importance of understanding customer needs. The discussion also touches on generational shifts in technology acceptance, the future of augmented reality, and personal reflections on memory and passion.

Keywords

Takeaways

• Interactive avatars are becoming essential for customer engagement.
• The digital avatar market is rapidly growing.
• Avatars can provide multilingual support.
• Customer satisfaction is key to avatar success.
• Younger generations are more accepting of avatars.
• Ethical considerations are crucial in avatar deployment.
• Historical figures as avatars generate interest.

Sound Bites

"We've got our avatars in 20 languages. So with the switch of a button, you could have them speak English, then French, then Chinese, and Arabic."

"There are a couple of articles on the internet about our release of Cleopatra. So from a bust to an image, to an image, to a live video, from a live video to interactive live video. We're working with some professors from universities to make sure that we're getting things right."

References

Michael shared his appreciation of the Making Sense Podcast with Sam Harris.

According to Grandview Research the global digital avatar market reached over $18 billion in 2023 and is growing at a 49% clip between now and 2030. Digital Avatar Market Size, Share & Growth Report, 2030 Interactive AI powered Avatars comprise over the half the market and are growing even faster.

Six years ago, Forbes was presenting the idea that avatars would soon come to dominate customer service. What Is An Ideal Customer Avatar? Microsoft rolled out solutions like the HoloLens, Microsoft Mesh and even SharePoint Spaces. (SharePoint Spaces is being shut down this year.)

But there's been a lot less attention focused on avatars of late, with the attention paid to generative AI. However, GenAI solutions are making overall avatar experiences richer and more interactive.

And there's a lot of investments in Gen AI. Bloomberg project the Generative AI market will hit the $1 Trillion mark in just over five years Generative AI to Become a $1.3 Trillion Market by 2032, Research Finds | Press | Bloomberg LP

You can see an example of Michael's interactive Cleopatra on YouTube.

Events

• Microsoft 365 Community Conference | May 5-8, 2025 (Vegas)
• SharePoint Intranet Festival (SWOOP Analytics) | May 21, 2025 (Online)
• European Collaboration Summit | May 26-28, 2025 (Düsseldorf, Germany)
• TechCon 365 Seattle Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Interactive Avatars

01:28 Context and Data Points

05:06 The Evolution of Metaverse Technologies

06:34 Identifying Client Needs and Use Cases

09:02 The Unique Advantages of Avatars

10:59 Overcoming Reluctance Towards Avatars

12:44 Generational Shifts in Avatar Acceptance

14:42 Ethics and Transparency in AI Avatars

16:35 Customer Engagement and Avatar Deployment

19:48 Success Stories with Historical Figures

21:30 Understanding the Technology Behind Avatars

23:22 Defensibility in the Avatar Business

26:20 Future Trends in Avatar Technology

28:29 Personal Reflections on Memory and Passion

31:34 Upcoming Events in AI and Collaboration

33:10 Insights on AI-Powered Avatars and Customer Experience

In this episode of Polaris, Chris McNulty and Michelle Boyd discuss the importance of delivery excellence in project management. They explore the definitions of projects and delivery management, common misconceptions, and the significance of methodologies like Agile and Waterfall. The conversation highlights the role of kickoff meetings, tools, and templates in ensuring successful project delivery, as well as strategies for rescuing troubled projects. They also touch on the impact of technology and AI on project management and share insights from successful deliveries.

Takeaways

• Delivery excellence is crucial for organizations.
• A project is defined as a temporary endeavor with specific objectives.
• Miscommunication is often the root cause of project failures.
• Kickoff meetings are essential for aligning expectations and success criteria.
• Agile methodologies are not always the best fit for every project.
• Technology can enhance project management but is not a panacea.

Sound Bites

• "Projects are more about people than processes."
• "Flexibility within a framework is the true essence of effective project management."
• "Technology should be an enabler, not a dictator, of project success."

References

The Rise of Agile Methodologies in Non-Software Industries:

According to a recent report by the Project Management Institute (PMI), organizations that prioritize delivery management are 30% more likely to meet their project goals and stay within budget. This highlights the critical role of delivery management in achieving project success. Source: Pulse of the Profession | PMI

Agile methodologies, traditionally used in software development, are now being adopted by various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. A study by McKinsey & Company found that 75% of organizations in these sectors have implemented agile practices to improve efficiency and adaptability. Source: 17 Agile Statistics You Need to Know in 2025

The Impact of AI and Automation on Project Management:

The integration of AI and automation tools in project management is transforming the way projects are planned, executed, and monitored. Gartner predicted that by 2025, AI will automate 80% of project management tasks, leading to increased productivity and reduced human error. [They now say it wil late until 2023.] Source: AI in project management: A no hype guide for teams

Events

• Association for Intelligent information Management AI+IM Summit | March 31- April 2 (Atlanta)
• Microsoft 365 Community Conference | May 5-8, 2025 (Vegas)
• European Collaboration Summit | May 26-28, 2025 (Düsseldorf, Germany)
• TechCon 365 Seattle | June 23-27, 2025 (Seattle)

Production

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley. Creative inspirations from Mark Kashman.

Chapters

00:00 Opening

01:32 Trends and Data Points

03:06 Introducing Michelle Boyd

05:57 Defining Projects and Their Characteristics

08:31 Project Management vs. Delivery Management

11:49 Project Methodologies - Agile, Waterfall and Hybrid

17:04 The Importance of Kickoff Meetings

19:34 Effective Communication Strategies in Projects

20:15 Tools and Templates for Successful Delivery

21:53 Understanding the RAIDD Log

23:59 Project Rescue: The First Steps

26:16 Common Reasons Projects Go Off Track

27:13 New Technologies in Project Delivery

27:52 The Role of Technology in Project Management

32:06 Delivery Management Success

32:42 A Successful Delivery Case Study

34:55 Cultural Reflections and Personal Insights

35:41 Upcoming Events in Information Management

37:32 Closing

Polaris is a production of Synozur - an advisory agency focused on transforming business for our clients, navigating the complexities of transformation and strategic planning with ease.

In our latest episode of Polaris, we sit down with Dennis Meador, CEO of the Legal Podcast Network. Dennis has a front-row seat for the evolution of modern marketing techniques in the professional services sector, particularly within the legal industry.

He explores the importance of influencer marketing, the role of podcasting in building authority, and how attorneys can leverage digital platforms to connect with their ideal clients. Dennis also shares insights on simplifying the podcasting process for lawyers, the significance of specialization, and the future of marketing in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Keywords

modern marketing, professional services, legal industry, podcasting, branding, influencer marketing, digital marketing, content creation, Web3, AI

Takeaways

• Modern marketing techniques are essential for professional services.
• Podcasting can significantly enhance a lawyer's authority and reach.
• Attorneys need to embrace digital marketing to stay competitive.
• Specialization in legal practice areas is crucial for success.
• Earning attention is more effective than traditional advertising.
• The future of marketing involves embracing new technologies and AI.
• Podcasting should be viewed as a means to generate client engagement, not just views.

References

A study by Edelman and LinkedIn revealed that 55% of decision-makers use thought leadership content to vet organizations they are considering working with - and nine of ten decision-makers and C-suite executives say they are moderately or very likely to be more receptive to company that consistently produces high-quality thought leadership. 2024 Edelman-LinkedIn B2B Thought Leadership Impact Report | Edelman

Events

• AI+IM Summit 2025 Atlanta Georgia March 31-April 2 https://aiim.org
• Microsoft 365 Community Conference | May 5-8, 2025 (Las Vegas)
• TechCon 365 Seattle - June 23-27, 2025 - Synozur will be sponsoring and speaking at TechCon 365 Seattle. https://www.techcon365.com.

Sound Bites

• "Data is the new oil, and those who can harness it will lead the marketing revolution."
• "Personalization isn't just a trend; it's the future of customer engagement."
• "Collaborating with the right influencers can be a game-changer for your brand."

Production Credits

Polaris is produced with the help of our friends at Riverside.fm. Our theme song, "Alternative Dream" is provided courtesy of Adobe. Additional music and sound provided by IndieGuy Records. Graphic design by Josh Brantley.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dennis Meador and His Journey

01:21 Trends and Data

01:24 News and Trends

05:12 The Rise of Podcasting in the Legal Industry

06:58 Modern Marketing Techniques for Law Firms

09:53 Creating Seamless Content for Attorneys

13:00 Niche Specialization in Legal Podcasting

15:00 Success Stories: Transforming Legal Practices

17:32 Establishing a Strong Online Presence

20:25 Content Strategy and Distribution Channels

21:45 Understanding Digital Languages in Marketing

23:38 The Role of Podcasting in Modern Marketing

25:59 Navigating Remote Work Culture

26:09 Embracing New Technologies and Trends

31:04 Chat about SideCoach.AI

31:20 Revolutionizing Productivity with AI Tools

32:36 Future Directions for Legal Marketing

34:17 Upcoming Events in 2025

36:04 Closing and Thanks