Last week at Microsoft Inspire, I chatted with Microsoft employees and partners about the changes Advanced Analytics and Artificial Intelligence are having on the Microsoft Data Platform.
One common theme that resonated throughout these discussions is that it’s the business, rather than IT, driving these new Data Platform capabilities. The differentiation between traditional IT and the business has diminished as access to tools and technology has become readily available and widely accessible.
Today, organisations are using data to drive their businesses in a variety of ways. From retailers using data insights to predict which products customers will want in the future and charities using data to inform how funding can be more effectively spent.
With SQL Server 2017 being the first Data Platform to have AI available out of the box, even more people will have access to the tools than ever before. If you would like to know more about how you can start to leverage this new capability, contact WARDY IT Solutions today.
As always, here’s my top picks for July:
Free eBook: SQL Server Licensing Optimisation
We know that reading the ins and outs of SQL Server licensing isn’t going to be the first thing on your to-do list but having a basic understanding of how it works can leave you with a much healthier IT budget. That’s why we’ve put together this free eBook to explain what you really need to know to get the most from your licensing agreement.
$99 +GST Power BI Session
We’re pleased to announce that Dashboard in a Day is back! Designed by Microsoft, delivered by WARDY IT Solutions, Dashboard in a Day is a 1-day session including the latest features of Power BI for only $99 +GST per person. Limited spaces available. Find out more and register.
Video: How to create a Running Total YTD using Microsoft Power BI
Our very own Data Analytics Consultant Don Aldridge has put together this step by step video, explaining how to create a measure that will correctly calculate a running total Financial Year to Date – showcasing some of Power BI’s newest features including Quick Measures, Data Bars, Colour Scales and Responsive Visual.
New Microsoft Certification – MCSA: BI Reporting
Back in April, Microsoft announced a number of changes to the certification program, introducing brand new MCSA’s and MCSE’s including the latest edition of an ‘MCSA: BI Reporting’. This certification consists of 20778 – Analysing Data with Power BI and 20768 – Developing SQL Data Models. All course bookings include an exam voucher so you can sit your exams at no additional cost.
Session from Data Insights Summit
Last month the Microsoft Data Insights Summit was held in Seattle. There were a number announcements about the future of Power BI and countless sessions on how to leverage the Microsoft Business Intelligence services and platforms. These sessions are publicly available and free for you to watch at your leisure.
Enterprise Cloud Strategy
Enterprise Cloud Strategy is the second release of the popular eBook that outlines how cloud can be leveraged as a technology that can transforms the scope of IT and business operations. This free eBook details the best practices on how to begin your journey to the cloud and what applications to start with.
Stop Overpaying for Microsoft Licensing
Our Data Platform consultants have written up their top 5 tips for saving money during the annual True Up process. After reading this post, along with the SQL Server Optimisation eBook, you’ll be fully equipped for your next True Up.
