Microsoft Learn

There is a new approach to learning, with hands-on training at Microsoft Learn.  At the Ignite keynote, Scott Guthrie announced the availability of Microsoft Learn. This new learning site says it will help you achieve your goals faster. Microsoft have launched more than 80 hours of learning for Azure, Dynamics 365, Power BI, PowerApps, and Microsoft Flow. IT is module based. The new learning platform should help up-level your skills, prepare for new role-based certification exams, and explore additional training offerings such as instructor-led training and Pluralsight.  There are 2 tracks so far. Learn Azure and Learn Business Applications. To save the progress of your learning you need to first logon and your username, display name, achievements and activities will be publically visible https://techprofile.microsoft.com/en-gb/

There are learning learning options. Microsoft Virtual Academy (MVA) which is video based. EDX also provides other courses where you can learn about Microsoft technologies and follow  different career paths.

The Data Relay Journey

This year I was Head of Marketing and Social Media for Data Relay, the conference previously known as SQL Relay. It is a privilege to be able to help put on an event which in 5 consecutive days, travels to 5 different UK cities across the breadth of the country. This year we invested a lot of time trying to improve the conference. We re-branded to Data Relay to be more in keeping with the breadth of the Microsoft Data Platform. We introduced a Code of Conduct to help encourage diversity at the conference and several other things. Our aim is to keep improving the conference.

I was the Bristol Venue Event Owner and this time delivered a session about the end to end process of data management, things to consider when improving data quality and data science in industry, based on findings from my PhD research. The session also covered data collection areas, that are often led by marketing teams. I shared details of my research findings about the complexity of managing database systems, the use of the Microsoft data platform for research and the possible future AI developments to help people manage database systems with greater ease.

Ignite 2018 key announcements

The Microsoft Ignite 2018 news and highlights from the event.

Research skills for industry experts

It is great to see the name of the SQL Relay conference change to Data Relay. The conference encompasses the full breath of the Microsoft data platform and provides free Microsoft Data, AI & Analytics training conferences on your doorstep.

I am privileged to be speaking on Friday at Data Relay in Bristol to share my experience of providing high quality data analytics for my research using the Microsoft Data Platform. 

SQL Relay 2018

I am speaking at SQL Relay 2018 in Bristol, Friday 12 October. My session is: Research skills for industry experts.

Abstract
It is becoming ever increasing the need to present analytic outcomes. Analytics are only ever as good, as the robustness of the data collection and analysis. This session will cover the raft of research skills that can be applied in industry to improve the quality of your investigative work.

MVP Wall

At Microsoft Ignite 2018 Microsoft devoted an entire wall to list all the names of the MVPs. I felt very humbled to have my name on the MVP wall with so many amazing people. It is such a privilege to be a part of the Microsoft Data Community. #datafamily #MVPbuzz

hashtag

And there is my name.

SQLBits 2019

SQLBits 2019 has been announced. It is in the heart of Manchester. The last time it was in Manchester was in 2009. I am already excited about this next event.