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microsoft power platform
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What is Microsoft Power Platform?

microsoft power platform

In today’s fast-paced business environment, companies need tools that enable them to stay competitive and efficient. Microsoft Power Platform is a suite of applications that helps businesses automate processes, analyze data, and build custom apps with minimal coding. The Power Platform consists of four main components: Power BI, Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power Virtual Agents. These tools work together to provide comprehensive solutions for business automation and data analytics.

 

The importance of Microsoft Power Platform in today’s business landscape cannot be overstated. It empowers organizations to transform their operations by automating routine tasks, gaining insights from data, and creating tailored applications that meet specific business needs. This platform enables both technical and non-technical users to innovate and improve efficiency, making it an asset for any business.

In this blog, we will explore the key components of Microsoft Power Platform and highlight their features for enhancing business efficiency.

Understanding Microsoft Power Platform

What is a Power Platform?

Microsoft Power Platform is a suite of low-code tools that empowers users to create custom business solutions, automate workflows, and analyze data without extensive programming knowledge.

Power Platform offers inclusive and highly accessible technologies for daily business use, allowing users to develop comprehensive end-to-end solutions that provide value to stakeholders and foster business growth.

It comprises five key components:

 

  • Power BI
  • Power Apps
  • Power Pages
  • Power Automate
  • Power Virtual Agents

Together, these applications enable organizations to automate business processes, analyze data, and create new apps, websites and virtual agents.

Power platform is designed to integrate seamlessly with various Microsoft services and other third-party applications, providing a cohesive environment for digital transformation.

Components of Power Platform

The five components of Power Platform can be utilized separately or in combination to drive innovation and develop efficient, flexible business solution solutions. When used together, these tools leverage the platform’s built-in security, management and compliance features.

Power BI

Power BI is a powerful business analytics tool that allows users to visualize and share insights from their data. It helps businesses make informed decisions by providing real-time data analysis and interactive visualizations. Enterprise teams can use it to extract useful, intelligent andtimely insights from diverse data sources. It captures real-time data from other Power Platform tools, including Power Apps, Power Virtual Agents, and Power Automate.

 

  • Itsupports data integration from a wide range of sources, including Excel, SQL Servers, Cloud services, and APIs, enabling users to consolidate data from multiple systems into a unified view.
  • It provides advanced analytics capabilities, including data modeling, DAX calculations, and integrations with machine learning models, to perform complex data analysis.
  • It supports collaborative features such as sharing dashboards and reports with team members, setting up workspaces and integrating with Microsoft Teams for seamless communication and collaboration.

Power Apps

Power Apps is a low-code application development platform that enables users to build custom apps tailored to their business needs. It simplifies the app development process, allowing even those with minimal coding experience to create functional applications.

 

As a key component of the Power Platform, it allows both business and non-technical users to:

 

  • Design professional applications tailored to address specific business needs and challenges.
  • Automate manual processes by creating workflows that streamline operations and improve efficiency.
  • Integrate diverse data sources to enable comprehensive business decision-making and data management.
  • Embed interactive dashboards within applications to provide actionable insights and support optimization efforts.
  • Customize and extend app functionality using a range of pre-built templates, connectors, and components to meet unique business requirements.

Power Pages

Microsoft Power Pages is a secure, enterprise-grade software as a service platform for creating, hosting, and managing modern external-facing business websites. Whether you are a low-code user or a professional designer, you can configure, design, and publish websites that work across all web browsers and devices.

 

  • For professional developers, Power Pages includes tools such as Visual Studio Code, GitHub, and Azure DevOps to extend functionalities and support advanced website development needs.
  • It includes RBAC features to manage user permissions effectively and maintain a secure website environment.
  • Built-in analytics tools offer insights into website performance, visitor behavior, and engagement metrics to drive data-informed decisions.
  • Users can connect with Microsoft Dataverse to collect, manage, and store data from site visitors and share it with externals audiences.

Power Automate

Power Automate, formerly known as Microsoft Flow, is a software tool that allows users to create automated workflows between various apps and services. It helps automate repetitive tasks and manual processes in both Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Azure, with the goal of boosting productivity.

 

  • Provides a user-friendly, no-code environment with drag-and-drop tools for creating workflows.
  • It includes AI builder for advanced automation capabilities, allowing users to build intelligent workflows and embed powerful language models.
  • It offers a range of prebuilt connectors and templates for easy integration with various apps and services.
  • Automations can be scheduled to run at specific times or triggered by events such as receiving an email or updating a record.

Enables real-time notifications and alerts for timely actions and updates.

Power Virtual Agents

Power Virtual Agents is a no-code tool that enables users to create intelligent chatbots for engaging with customers and employees. These chatbots can be integrated into websites, apps, and other channels to provide automated support and services.

  • Build intelligent chatbots without any coding using a user-friendly graphical interface and built-in AI features.
  • Create bots for different scenarios, available in multiple languages and deployable across digital channels like websites, mobile apps, and Microsoft Teams.
  • Manage environment with centralized administration and built-in security roles for secure scaling and consistent governance.
  • Automatically track critical key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor chatbots performance and effectiveness.
  • Leverage self-learning AI and natural language processing (NLP) for continuous improvement and enhanced chatbots interactions.

Connecting to Dynamics 365 and Microsoft 365

How do we connect Power Platform with our existing systems?

To connect the Power Platform with your existing systems, you can use Power BI, Power Apps, or Power Automate as standalone applications. However, the real potential of these tools is unlocked when you integrate them into a unified ecosystem. By connecting them with Dynamics 365 and Microsoft 365, you can achieve a more powerful and cohesive experience that enhances data flow, process automation, and overall productivity.

 

These connections can be made not only with Office and Microsoft 365 applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Outlook, but also with your Dynamics 365 solution and Microsoft Azure.

Power Platform with Dynamics 365 Business Central

The Power Platform integrates effectively with Dynamics 365 Business Central, offering numerous benefits:

Power BI: You can embed Power BI reports directly within Dynamics 365 Business Central, allowing you to view and interact with data without leaving the application. Conversely, you can retrieve data from Business Central to create detailed and customizable reports and dashboards in Power BI, providing real-time insights and flexible visualizations.

Power Automate: Workflow functionalities in Power Automate can be incorporated into Business Central. Although they are separate workflow systems, you can create Power Automate templates and integrate them into Business Central workflows. By adding Dynamics 365 Business Central as a data source in Power Automate, you can develop various automation flows from pre-built templates or create new ones from scratch.

Power Apps: You can build canvas or model-driven applications using Power Apps and share these applications across your organization or publish them online. This integration allows you to extend Dynamics 365 Business Central’s capabilities and build customized solutions for diverse business needs.

Benefits of Power Platform

Microsoft Power Platform offers significant advantages for organizations seeking to create robust digital tools and capabilities quickly and with minimal coding.

Here are some benefits of Microsoft Power Platform:

  • Efficient and Cost-Effective Solution Development: Power Platform’s low-code environment allows users to quickly create solutions for business challenges with minimal coding, accelerating results and reducing costs.
  • Seamless Integration with Microsoft and Third-Party Apps: The tools connect with Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, Azure, and hundreds of other apps to build flexible, end-to-end business solutions that are efficient and scalable.
  • Comprehensive Data Connectivity: Connects to hundreds of data sources through a wide range of connectors and Microsoft Dataverse, bringing data together to uncover valuable insights for better decision-making.
  • Native Extensibility Across Microsoft Azure Cloud: The tools are designed for integration across the Microsoft Azure Cloud and connect with custom or legacy systems to strengthen existing tech stacks and increase tech ROI.
  • Adaptable for Various Business Needs: Power Platform’s tools are versatile for developing apps, automating processes, and creating data dashboards, catering to diverse business requirements.
  • Empowers Non-Technical Users: Provides a user-friendly interface and low-code features that enable non-technical users to build and manage solutions independently.
  • Supports Continuous Improvement: Tools like Power BI and Power Automate offer built-in features for monitoring performance and refining processes, supporting ongoing improvements and optimization.

These benefits demonstrate how Power Platform supports efficient, scalable, and adaptable solutions for a wide range of business needs.

In Conclusion

Power Platform stands out as a powerful suite of tools designed to streamline business processes, enhance productivity, and enable data-driven decision-making. Its seamless integration capabilities and user-friendly interface make it an ideal choice for organizations looking to innovate and scale efficiently.

 

Embracing Power Platform is crucial for businesses aiming to stay competitive in today’s dynamic market. Its versatile tools and robust integrations empower organizations to solve diverse business challenges effectively. By leveraging Power Platform, companies can drive growth, improve productivity, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Ready to elevate your business with Microsoft Power Platform? Contact us to learn more about our services and training programs. Our experts are here to help you harness the full potential of Power Platform, ensuring you maximize its benefits and achieve your business goals. Start your Power Platform journey with us today and revolutionize your operations.

Contact Us to Explore Microsoft Power Platform Solutions!

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power bi vs jet reports
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Power BI vs. Jet Reports: 11 Key Differences

power bi vs jet reports

Power BI vs. Jet Reports: the ultimate comparison between two powerful tools that cater to different aspects of data analysis and reporting, each with its strengths and unique features. 

 

Power BI, developed by Microsoft, is a comprehensive business analytics tool that enables users to visualize and analyze data through interactive reports and dashboards. It excels at creating interactive dashboards and reports for tailored insights. However, Power BI does have some limitations when it comes to financial and operational reporting. Creating reports is complex, requiring DAX scripting and technical knowledge. It lacks drill-down capability to Dynamics NAV/365 Business Central, and needs detailed transactions in the data model. 

 

While Jet Reports is a business reporting solution designed to work with Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems, such as Dynamics NAV and Dynamics 365 Business Central. It provides fast, flexible financial and business reporting within Excel environment. It simplifies access to information by enabling real-time reporting on Microsoft Dynamics data and allows easy sharing of reports across your organization. 

Power BI and Jet Reports: What's the difference?

Both Power BI and Jet Reports are complementary tools in the realm of data analysis and reporting, but they have core differences in their functionality and focus. 

Aspects 

Power BI 

Jet Reports 

Purpose

Microsoft’s robust analytics, best for data visualization and dashboards with interactive visuals.

Focused on detailed financial and operational reporting from Dynamics ERP.

Interface  

Uses Power BI Desktop, requires learning for new users.

Integrates with Excel, familiar for finance professionals.

Visualization

Offers rich, interactive visuals with numerous chart types.

Basic visualizations, prioritizing details on transactions.

 

Data Integration  

Connects to various on-premises, cloud, and third-party sources.

Optimized for Microsoft Dynamics ERP data.

Customization

Strong visual customization, limited for detailed formatting.

High flexibility in formatting and layout via Excel.

 

 

User Base

Used by executives and analysts for high-level insights.

Preferred by finance teams for detailed reporting.

 

Security 

Robust security with role-based access and Azure integration. 

Utilizes the NAV-BC security model, eliminating the need to manage a separate security model. 

Real Time Reporting

Supports live data and frequent refreshes.

Real-time data from Dynamics ERP. 

Drill-down Capabilities 

Advanced drill-down on interactive dashboards.

 Excel-based drill-down functionality.

Report Scheduling and Distribution 

Automates report sharing via Power BI Service.

Reports scheduled and distributed directly from Excel.

Dimensions 

 Supports dimensional analysis for detailed data slicing.

Works seamlessly with Dynamics dimensions.

 

In Conclusion

In conclusion of Power BI vs. Jet Reports; both offer valuable solutions for data analysis and reporting, each has its own strengths and focus. Power BI is a comprehensive tool suitable for users working with diverse data sources, offering advanced data visualization and analysis capabilities. On the other hand, Jet Reports, is specifically designed for reporting of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems, providing a more streamlined and tailored reporting solution. 

 

The core differences between Power BI and Jet Reports lie in their functionality and integration capabilities. Power BI requires manual or scheduled refreshes for its data model and lacks real-time reporting directly from the ERP. In contrast, Jet Reports enables real-time reporting by directly refreshing reports against the live ERP system, providing a more seamless and integrated reporting experience within the Dynamics environment. 

 

Ultimately, the choice between Power BI and Jet Reports depends on the organization’s specific needs and requirements. Power BI is ideal for users who require extensive data visualization and analysis capabilities, while Jet Reports is more suitable for users within the Dynamics ERP environment who need a specialized reporting solution. Integrating these tools can enhance an organization’s data analysis and reporting capabilities, especially for those leveraging Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. 

 

Still exploring which solution is right for you? Our experts are here to help! Contact us today to discuss your unique business needs and find the perfect fit. 

 

Our team will guide you through the features and benefits of both Power BI and Jet Reports, helping you understand how each solution aligns with your goals. Whether you need advanced data visualization and analysis capabilities or a specialized reporting tool for Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems, we’ll help you make an informed decision. 

 

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Contact us today and discover which tool; Power BI vs. Jet Reports leads you to winning data transformation!

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Data Mining
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What is Data Mining?

Data Mining

Data mining refers to the process of extracting valuable patterns, information, and knowledge from large datasets. It involves uncovering hidden trends, correlations, and associations within the data, providing organizations with actionable insights for informed decision-making.

How Data Mining Works?

  • Data Collection: This involves gathering relevant data from various sources, such as databases, logs, and external datasets. The richness and diversity of the data contribute to the effectiveness of the mining process.
  • Data Cleaning: Identifying and rectifying errors, inconsistencies, and missing values in the dataset is crucial. Clean data ensures the accuracy and reliability of the mining results.
  • Exploratory Data Analysis: Before diving into the modeling phase, analysts perform exploratory data analysis to understand the structure, relationships, and potential patterns within the dataset. This step guides subsequent modeling decisions.
  • Model Building: Mathematical models or algorithms are created in this step to identify patterns and relationships within the data. This phase requires a deep understanding of the dataset and the goals of the analysis.
  • Pattern Evaluation: The effectiveness of the models is evaluated in terms of their ability to reveal meaningful insights. This step ensures that the patterns identified are relevant and reliable.
  • Knowledge Deployment: Implementing the discovered knowledge is the final step, where insights gained from the analysis are applied to drive decision-making and improve business processes.

Data Mining Techniques

Data mining employs various techniques, including:

 

  • Classification: This technique categorizes data into predefined classes or groups based on identified patterns. It is often used for tasks such as spam filtering or customer segmentation.
  • Clustering: Grouping similar data points together helps identify inherent structures within the dataset. This technique is valuable for market segmentation and anomaly detection.
  • Regression: Predicting numerical values based on identified relationships within the data. It is widely used in areas such as sales forecasting and risk assessment.
  • Association Rule Mining: This technique discovers relationships and patterns that frequently co-occur in the dataset. It is applied in areas like market basket analysis in retail.

The Process of Data Mining

  1. Data Collection: Gathering relevant data from diverse sources sets the foundation for meaningful analysis. The more comprehensive the dataset, the richer the insights.
  2. Data Preprocessing: Cleaning and transforming the data for analysis is essential for accurate results. This step involves handling missing values, outliers, and ensuring data consistency.
  3. Exploratory Data Analysis: Understanding the characteristics and relationships within the dataset guides subsequent modeling decisions. Visualization tools are often employed to aid in this exploration.
  4. Model Building:Developing algorithms or models to identify patterns requires expertise in both the domain and the intricacies of the data. This step is crucial for accurate and meaningful results.
  5. Validation and Testing: Evaluating the model’s performance on new data ensures its generalizability. Techniques like cross-validation help in assessing the model’s robustness.
  6. Implementation: Deploying the knowledge gained from the analysis for practical use completes the data mining process. This step often involves integrating insights into existing business processes.

Applications of Data Mining in Business Intelligence

The data mining process is fundamental to strengthening business intelligence, offering a range of applications that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency:

  1. Strategic Decision-Making: Leveraging data-driven insights enables organizations to make well-informed decisions, fostering strategic planning and optimizing resource allocation for sustained success.
  2. Customer Segmentation: Identifying and comprehending diverse customer segments are pivotal. Data mining facilitates targeted marketing strategies and cultivates personalized customer experiences, driving customer satisfaction and loyalty. The reporting capabilities of business intelligence tools, such as Jet Analytics, offer a robust solution for creating customer-centric reports. By delving into customer data, organizations can tailor their strategies enhancing overall customer satisfaction.
  3. Fraud Detection: Uncovering anomalies and unusual patterns in financial transactions is a critical aspect of business intelligence. Data mining plays a crucial role in proactively identifying fraudulent activities and safeguarding financial integrity.
  4. Market Analysis: In a dynamic business environment, analyzing market trends and predicting future conditions is indispensable. Data mining empowers businesses to stay competitive by providing insights that aid in adapting to changing market landscapes. Integrated reporting solutions, such as Jet Reports, for visualizing and interpreting market data. Organizations can generate reports that highlight key market trends, enabling them to make proactive decisions and stay ahead in dynamic market scenarios.

Data Mining Uses

Data mining finds applications across various industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, and manufacturing. It is utilized for:

 

  • Healthcare: In healthcare, data mining is instrumental in predicting disease outbreaks and optimizing patient care. By analyzing vast datasets, it contributes to improved public health initiatives, early detection of health trends, and personalized treatment strategies.
  • Finance: Data mining plays a crucial role in the financial sector by identifying fraudulent transactions and predicting market trends. These insights aid in effective risk management, fraud detection, and the formulation of sound investment strategies, contributing to the stability of financial systems.
  • Retail: In the retail industry, data mining is employed to analyze customer behavior and optimize inventory management. Understanding consumer preferences and purchasing patterns enhances the overall retail experience, enabling businesses to tailor their offerings and improve customer satisfaction. This can be further visualized with Power BI Dashboard that can be custom made for your preference.
  • Manufacturing: For manufacturing, data mining is utilized to improve production processes and predict equipment failures. By analyzing data related to machinery performance, production workflows, and quality control, manufacturers can enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and make informed decisions to optimize operations.

Pros and Cons of Data Mining

Pros:

  • Informed Decision-Making: The insights gained from data mining empower organizations to make informed decisions, leading to strategic advantages. This results in a more agile and adaptive approach to changing market conditions.
  • Efficiency: By optimizing processes and identifying areas for improvement, data mining contributes to increased operational efficiency. Streamlining workflows and resource allocation enhances overall business productivity.
  • Predictive Analysis: The ability to predict future trends and behaviors enables proactive decision-making and planning. Businesses can anticipate market shifts, customer preferences, and potential challenges, staying ahead of the curve.
  • Innovation Catalyst: Data mining often sparks innovation by revealing hidden patterns and opportunities. Organizations can uncover novel ideas and strategies that drive product development and business growth.

Cons:

  • Privacy Concerns: The use of personal data raises ethical and privacy concerns, necessitating careful handling and compliance with regulations. Striking a balance between data utilization and privacy protection is an ongoing challenge.
  • Complexity: Implementing data mining processes can be complex, requiring skilled professionals and significant resources. The intricacies of algorithmic models and the need for specialized expertise may pose challenges for some organizations.
  • Data Accuracy: The accuracy of results is highly dependent on the quality and precision of the input data. Ensuring data accuracy remains a perpetual challenge, as inaccuracies in the input can lead to misleading insights and flawed decision-making.
  • Integration Challenges: Integrating data mining into existing systems and workflows can be challenging. The process may disrupt established routines, requiring careful planning and effective change management to mitigate potential disruptions.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, data mining is a dynamic process that transforms raw data into actionable intelligence, driving informed decision-making in various industries. While offering numerous benefits, careful consideration of privacy and data accuracy is essential. As businesses continue to leverage data mining for strategic advantage, a balanced approach that addresses both the advantages and challenges will be crucial for success in the data-driven landscape.

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Business Central vs Finance and operations
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Business Central vs. Finance and operations

Business Central vs Finance and operations

Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers a range of powerful business management solutions, each tailored to meet the specific needs of different types of businesses. Two of the most popular offerings in the Dynamics 365 suite are Business Central and Finance and Operations.

Key Differences: Business Central vs. Finance and Operations

While both solutions are designed to help businesses manage their operations more effectively, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will help you to explore detailed differences for Business Central vs. Finance and Operations to help you determine which solution is right for your business.

Functionality

D365 Business Central

 D365 Finance and Operations

Microsoft Positioning

Business management solution for small and medium-sized businesses, offering tools to manage finances, operations, sales, and customer service effectively.

Solution for medium to large enterprises with complex business processes, offering advanced financial and operational management capabilities

Type of Companies

Ideal for small and medium-sized businesses across various industries

Geared towards medium to large enterprises with complex business processes

Customization and flexibility

Flexible and customizable for different industries, enabling operational excellence and digital transformation.

Suitable for a wide range of industries including manufacturing, retail, distribution, and services, providing tailored solutions for complex business processes.

Depth of Manufacturing

Offers robust manufacturing functionality, including production planning, shop floor control, and quality management, suitable for managing manufacturing processes effectively.

Provides deep manufacturing functionality supporting various modes like make-to-stock, make-to-order, and assemble-to-order, along with advanced features

Capabilities and Integration

Provides comprehensive capabilities for financial management, sales, and customer service, integrating seamlessly with other Dynamics 365 components for a unified platform.

Offers advanced capabilities for managing financials, supply chain, manufacturing, and operations, seamlessly integrating with other Dynamics 365 components

Minimum Number of Users

1

20

License Cost

$70 to $100 per user / month

$115 to $210 per user / month

Availability

 Available as a cloud-based solution in 33 countries

Available as a cloud-based solution in 140 countries

Localization

 localized to comply with regulatory requirements of different countries and regions, making it suitable for global operations.

Localized to comply with the regulatory requirements of different countries and regions, ensuring compliance and ease of use in various markets.

Business Analytics

Provides powerful analytics capabilities, offering insights into operations and supporting informed decision-making.

Offers advanced business analytics capabilities, providing valuable insights into operations and enabling informed decision-making across the Organization.

Scalability

Scalable to accommodate business growth, allowing for easy expansion of operations as the business expands.

Scalable to support business growth, enabling organizations to expand their operations easily as their business grows.

Deployment

Offers flexibility in deployment options, including cloud-based deployment for ease of access and management.

Provides flexibility in deployment options, including cloud-based deployment for improved accessibility and management

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Business Central vs. Finance and Operations are both powerful business management solutions, each offering unique functionalities tailored to meet the specific needs of different types of businesses.


While Dynamics 365 Business Central is ideal for small and medium-sized businesses looking for a comprehensive and cost-effective solution, Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations is more suited for medium to large enterprises with complex business processes and a need for advanced financial and operational management capabilities. Whether you’re a small retail business or a large manufacturing enterprise, Microsoft Dynamics 365 has the right solution to help you streamline your operations, improve efficiency, and drive growth.

Choose the Right Solution for Your Business Needs!

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Microsoft 365 Copilot
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Microsoft 365 Copilot: Revolutionizing Your Productivity

Microsoft 365 Copilot

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital productivity tools, Microsoft 365 stands tall as a comprehensive suite that empowers businesses worldwide. Among its many offerings, Microsoft 365 Copilot emerges as a transformative solution, promising to revolutionize the way organizations manage their Microsoft 365 environment.

What is Microsoft 365 Copilot?

Microsoft 365 Copilot is a revolutionary management tool designed to simplify the administration of Microsoft 365 services including those crucial for customer relationship management (Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM), finance and operations (Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O), and business central management (Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC).

It comprises three main components: Microsoft 365 apps (like Word, Excel, Teams), Microsoft Graph (incorporating files and data across the M365 environments), and OpenAI models (including ChatGPT-3, ChatGPT-4, DALL-E, Codex, and Embedding), all hosted on Microsoft Azure. Unlike traditional management methods, Copilot offers a more efficient and streamlined approach, allowing organizations to focus on their core business activities.

Microsoft 365 Copilot Features:

The Copilot offers many features for vast business community such as;

  • Effortless Automation: Microsoft 365 Copilot improves productivity by automating repetitive tasks and workflows, allowing employees to focus on more strategic initiatives.
  • Reduced Cost and optimizing Resources: It helps organizations save costs and optimize resources by streamlining Microsoft 365 management processes.
  • AI-powered insights: It leverages AI to unlock valuable insights from your Dynamics 365 state. Gain real-time customer behavior trends in Dynamics 365 CRM or identity financial optimization opportunities in Dynamics 365 F&O.
  • Streamlined Collaboration: Microsoft 365 Copilot fosters seamless collaboration within Dynamics 365 applications. Imagine teams working together on sales proposals in Dynamics 365 CRM or project plans in Dynamics 365 Business Central with real-time edits and suggestions.
  • Enhanced Security: It empowers businesses to maintain robust security within Dynamics 365. Leverage advanced monitoring and threat detection to keep your data safe.

Microsoft 365 Copilot

How Much Does Microsoft 365 Copilot Cost?

Microsoft 365 Copilot is available as part of the Microsoft 365 Enterprise subscription, which offers a range of plans tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. The cost of Copilot varies depending on the specific plan chosen, with pricing starting at $30 per user per month for the basic plan. Find how Microsoft Dynamics transform your business with: Microsoft 365. Future plans include tailored Microsoft 365 Copilot for Dynamics 365, Power Platform, security suite, and Windows OS.

How many Modes of Interaction are in Copilot?

  • Microsoft 365 Copilot system offers two main interaction modes: Direct engagement within applications like Word and Teams, and accessibility through Microsoft 365 Chat in Teams
  • Within applications, users seamlessly integrate M365 Copilot for tasks like drafting documents and summarizing meetings in real-time.
  • The second method of interaction is through Microsoft 365 Chat, functioning as a chatbot within Teams. Microsoft 365 Chat serves as a versatile tool for natural language interactions, enabling users to search across diverse sources.
  • Microsoft 365 Copilot enhances productivity in Word by offering text suggestions, facilitates collaboration in Teams with real-time meeting summaries, and streamlines PowerPoint presentations.
  • In addition to automation, Microsoft 365 Copilot also provides advanced monitoring and reporting capabilities, allowing you to keep track of service health and performance metrics. This information can help you identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring that your Microsoft 365 copilot environment remains stable and reliable.

In Conclusion

Copilot is a transformative tool that empowers businesses to unlock the full potential of Dynamics 365. With its innovative cutting-edge functionality and user-friendly interface, Copilot is empowering teams to collaborate more effectively and achieve their goals efficiently. To experience the benefits of Microsoft 365 Copilot for your business and drive growth, contact us at Global Data 365 today. Our team is ready to help you leverage this powerful tool to take your productivity to new heights.

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Management Reporter Jet Reports
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Management Reporter vs. Jet Reports

Management Reporter Jet Reports

Importance of Reporting Tools in Business Management

In today’s dynamic business environment, the significance of robust reporting tools cannot be overstated. Efficient financial reporting software and business intelligence reporting play a pivotal role in business management; aiding organizations to make informed decisions, monitor performance, and strategize for the future. Two prominent players in the reporting tools arena are Management Reporter vs. Jet Reports. 

What Is Management Reporter?

Management reports are essential components of business intelligence, providing a comprehensive overview of an organization’s financial performance. Management Reporter, a powerful financial reporting tool, stands out with its versatile report designer, enabling the creation of dynamic reports tailored to specific needs. 

We are going to give you three scenarios where a user should consider switching to Jet Reports or Jet Analytics: 

What is Jet Reports?

Jet Reports, on the other hand, is a dynamic business intelligence tool that goes beyond conventional financial reporting. With its user-friendly interface and Jet Dashboard Designer, organizations can leverage its capabilities for comprehensive financial reporting and analysis. Jet Reports is known for its adaptability and ease of use, making it an asset for businesses aiming to enhance their reporting processes. 

We are going to give you three scenarios where a user should consider switching to Jet Reports or Jet Analytics: 

Management Reporter vs. Jet Reports: 7 Key differences

Management Reporter (MR) is a standalone application from Microsoft that pulls data from Dynamics GP, while Jet Reports is an Excel add-in that pulls data into Excel from Dynamics GP. Jet Reports works with Microsoft Dynamics GP 9 (November 2005 release) and later. Both tools were designed specifically for working with Microsoft Dynamics data and integrated seamlessly with Dynamics GP, but between Management Reports vs. Jet Reports there are several key differences. 

- Building reports

MR reports are built in components one-by-one, starting with defining rows, then defining columns and trees, while Jet Reports are built in whole, not in components, cutting in half or more the time it takes to create a report. 

- Adding new accounts

When a new account is added in Dynamics GP, it must be manually added to Management Reporter. Due to the way MR is structured, not all data changes in Dynamics GP will be tracked on the change tracker and do not update the data mart, which is the tool that syncs MR with Dynamics GP. At times there might be hard coding involved to change how the data mart pulls data from Dynamics GP. However, Jet Reports can refresh data from Dynamics GP at any time, and new accounts will show up, without any hard coding or manually checking for new accounts. 

- Previewing reports

You cannot preview reports in MR, unless you assign a row to an actual report. In Jet Reports, you can easily toggle between design mode and report mode to check and see if the formatting and formulas you used are working as desired. 

- Data extractions

MR connects directly to your instance of Dynamics GP, however you can only create reports in MR using that data – you cannot pull from any other source. In contrast, Jet Reports allows you to pull data from numerous sources and consolidate it together, rather than just pulling data from Dynamics GP for building reports. Jet Reports can extract any data from Dynamics GP into Excel, and when the data refreshes, so does your pivot table. 

- Working in Excel

When building reports in MR, you can link to an Excel spreadsheet as a reference and pull in data from a spreadsheet. MR users often find themselves switching between MR and Excel when building reports to pull in data from different sources that might have been exported into Excel. With Jet Reports, you’re working directly inside Excel and can pull data from a variety of locations in addition to from Dynamics GP. This creates a smoother workflow and reduces the need to switch between applications to find the necessary data for a report or dashboard. Additionally, with designing Jet Reports inside Excel, you can take advantage of formatting options, copying and pasting, and other functionalities you are used to in Excel.

- Compatibility

The most recent version of MR reporter is Management Reporter 2012, last updated in 2014, and is compatible with Dynamics AX 2009 and 2012, Dynamics GP 2013 to 2018, and Dynamics SL 2011 and 2015. Jet Reports is regularly updated by insightsoftware, and is compatible with all Microsoft ERPs including Dynamics 365 products, Dynamics NAV, Dynamics GP, Dynamics AX, Dynamics CRM, and Dynamics SL. 

- Migrating to a newer ERP system

Dynamics GP is no longer supported by Microsoft and many companies realize they will eventually need to migrate to a newer ERP such as Dynamics 365 or choose a new ERP altogether. MR is not supported by newer Microsoft products, and as such, none of your reports built inside MR will migrate with you to a new system. On the other hand, all work completed in Jet Reports carries over into any ERP you choose since it is an independent platform and can pull data from any source; all you would have to do is update the data connectors. 

In Conclusion

In conclusion, while both Management Reporter and Jet Reports serve essential roles in the realm of reporting tools, but in the comparison of Management Reporter vs. Jet Reports the latter stands out as a superior choice for businesses aiming to elevate their business management with efficient financial reporting and business intelligence capabilities. The decision ultimately hinges on the specific needs and priorities of each organization, but Jet Reports’ user-friendly features and comprehensive functionality position it as a strong contender in the reporting tools landscape. 

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data lake vs data warehouse
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Data Lake vs Data Warehouse: What's The Key Difference?

data lake vs data warehouse

With the rise of big data and the explosion of new data sources, traditional data warehousing approaches may not be sufficient to meet the needs of modern data management and analytics, creating confusions between Data Lake vs Data warehouse. This has led to the development of new approaches, including Data Lake and Data Warehouse. Each approach offers unique benefits and drawbacks, and understanding the differences between them is critical to making informed decisions about data management and analytics.

Data Lake

A Data Lake is a centralized repository that allows businesses to store vast amounts of raw, unstructured, or structured data at scale. It provides a flexible storage environment, enabling organizations to ingest diverse data types without the need for upfront structuring. This unrefined data can then be processed and analyzed for valuable insights, making Data Lakes ideal for handling large volumes of real-time and varied data.

Benefits and Use Cases of Data Lake

Data lakes provide scalable and cost-effective storage, accommodating diverse data types such as raw and unstructured data for flexible analysis. With a focus on real-time analytics and advanced capabilities like machine learning, they support innovation in algorithm development. Cost-efficient storage solutions, often leveraging scalable cloud storage, make data lakes economical for managing large datasets.

 

Use cases range from big data analytics, IoT data management, and ad hoc analysis to long-term data archiving and achieving a 360-degree customer view. In essence, data lakes offer dynamic repositories that empower organizations with flexibility, real-time insights, and comprehensive data management solutions.

Data Warehouse

On the other hand, a Data Warehouse is a structured, organized database optimized for analysis and reporting. It is designed to store structured data from various sources in a format that is easily query able and supports business intelligence reporting. Data Warehouses are characterized by their schema-on-write approach, requiring data to be structured before entering the system, ensuring a high level of consistency for analytical purposes.

Benefits and Use Cases of Data Warehouse

Data warehouses offer a multitude of benefits, including optimized structured data analysis for improved query performance and efficient reporting. They preserve historical data for time-series analysis and audit trails, enhance business intelligence through data consolidation and dashboard creation, ensure data quality and consistency through cleansing processes, and provide scalability to handle growing data volumes.

 

Common use cases encompass business performance analysis, customer relationship management, supply chain optimization, financial reporting and compliance, and human resources analytics.

Find the visual representation and difference between: Data Lake vs Data Warehouse.

Data Lake vs Datawarehouse: Key Differences

Features 

Data Lake

Data Warehouse 

Purpose 

 

Used for storing vast amounts of diverse data types for future analysis. 

Optimized for large-scale analytical queries, storing historical data for reporting and analysis. 

Data Type 

 

Stores raw, unprocessed data in its native format. 

Stores summarized, aggregated, and historical data. 

Data Structure 

Schema-on-read, allowing for flexibility in data storage. 

Optimized for read-heavy operations (OLAP – Online Analytical Processing). 

Users 

 

Primarily used by data engineers, data scientists, and machine learning teams. 

Mainly used by business analysts, data scientists, and decision-makers for insights and reporting. 

Data Volume 

Holds vast amounts of unstructured and structured data. 

Handles large volumes of historical data from various sources. 

Performance 

 

Performance can vary; optimized for large data ingestion rather than query speed. 

High performance for complex queries and large-scale data retrieval for analysis. 

Schema Design 

Uses a flexible schema design; data is often stored without a predefined schema. 

Denormalized schema (e.g., star or snowflake schema) for faster query performance 

Data Processing 

 

Processes a wide variety of data types, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data. 

Processes complex  queries requiring significant data aggregation 

Concurrency 

Supports high concurrency for data ingestion and retrieval.

 

Supports a lower number of users. 

Storage Cost 

 

Typically cheaper to store vast amounts of data due to lower storage costs. 

 

Higher storage costs due to large datasets and complex processing requirements. 

 

Example Use Cases 

 

Data exploration, machine learning, real-time analytics. 

Business intelligence reporting, trend analysis, forecasting, decision support. 

Data Source 

Captures data from various sources, including social media, IoT devices, and unstructured data. 

Aggregates data from multiple sources, including databases, external systems, and log files. 
  1. Data Type:
    Data Lake: Stores raw, unprocessed data in its native format.
    Data Warehouse: Stores summarized, aggregated, and historical data.
     
  2. Purpose:
    Data Lake: Used for storing vast amounts of diverse data types for future analysis.
    Data Warehouse: Optimized for large-scale analytical queries and historical data analysis.

  3. Data Structure: 
    Data Lake: Schema-on-read, allowing for flexibility in data storage.
    Data Warehouse: Optimized for read-heavy operations (OLAP – Online Analytical Processing).

  4. Users:
    Data Lake: Primarily used by data engineers, data scientists, and machine learning teams.
    Data Warehouse: Mainly used by business analysts, data scientists, and decision-makers.

  5. Data Volume:
    Data Lake: Holds vast amounts of unstructured and structured data. 
    Data Warehouse: Handles large volumes of historical data from multiple sources.

  6. Performance: 
    Data Lake    : Performance can vary; optimized for large data ingestion rather than query speed. 
    Data Warehouse: High performance for complex queries and large-scale data retrieval.

  7. Schema Design:
    Data Lake: Uses a flexible schema design; data is often stored without a predefined schema. 
    Data Warehouse: Denormalized schema (e.g., star or snowflake schema) for faster query performance.

  8. Data Processing:
    Data Lake: Processes a wide variety of data types, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data. 
    Data Warehouse: Processes complex queries requiring significant data aggregation.

  9. Concurrency:
    Data Lake: Supports high concurrency for data ingestion and retrieval. 
    Data Warehouse: Supports a lower number of users.

  10. Storage Cost:
    Data Lake: Typically cheaper to store vast amounts of data due to lower storage costs.
    Data Warehouse: Higher storage costs due to large datasets and complex processing.

  11. Data Source:
    Data Lake: Captures data from various sources, including social media, IoT devices, and unstructured data. 
    Data Warehouse: Aggregates data from multiple sources, including databases, external systems, and log files.

  12. Example Use Cases: 
    Data Lake: Data exploration, machine learning, real-time analytics. 
    Data Warehouse: Business intelligence reporting, trend analysis, forecasting. 

Finding the Right Fit: data lake vs data warehouse

Is there room for both Data Lake and Data Warehouse in your data strategy? Explore the benefits of adopting a hybrid approach, seamlessly integrating the strengths of both solutions for comprehensive data management. Discover the factors to consider when choosing between Data Lake and Data Warehouse solutions. From cost considerations to scalability needs and varying data types and formats, find the perfect fit with Global Data 365 for your business’s unique requirements by contacting us now.

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Why is Building a BI Strategy Important
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Why is Building a BI Strategy Important?

Why is Building a BI Strategy Important

Many business executives face the ongoing challenge of obtaining straightforward and reliable reporting from their business software systems. While they recognize the vast amount of data at their disposal, the processes of extracting, organizing, and evaluating that data often seem unnecessarily complex. This is where Global Data 365 comes in. We are committed to simplifying the reporting process through a robust BI Strategy, making it more efficient and accessible for everyone in the organization. 

 

Business intelligence is the method of transforming raw data into actionable information. It helps you to gather data from various sources, arrange it, and then analyse it. In recent years, BI has exploded in popularity among small and mid-sized businesses (SMEs), owing to advances in technology that have made powerful analytics accessible to businesses of all sizes. 

 

When you realize the real business advantages that powerful reporting can offer, BI resources provide a very good return on investment. A BI strategy will let you solve all your data problems and requirements, create a coherent structure, and sustain it. What happens if you begin BI implementation without a plan? In other words, if you are focused on making those graphs but no one in the business understands why or how to use them. 

 

There is no one-size-fits-all solution because every other organization is unique. In the end, it’s all about figuring out where the company is now, where you want it to go in the future, and how you will get there. 

Why Stock Reporting Tools Are Not Effective

Most businesses already use a variety of monitoring methods, and they may not even be aware of how disorganized their processes are. Consider the different tech platforms that your company employs. Most businesses use an ERP system to manage their financial and operational activities daily. Some companies have their own CRM system that may or may not be integrated with the ERP. Others use a digital marketing automation tool to generate and develop leads, improve customer interaction, and increase brand recognition and reputation. 

 

These structures have their own set of reporting features. Unfortunately, such methods are frequently intended to be effective. They meet the basic reporting criteria, but they are limited in terms of versatility and complexity. Those tools, in many cases, lack the ability to generate custom reports. 

 

Frequently, current reports cannot be modified to benefit the organization’s strategic, complex business processes. 

 

ERP software, in general, is infamous for requiring specialized IT skills for report creation and customization. This entails allocating limited IT resources to the task or hiring costly outside contractors to complete the task. Accounting, inventory, sales, and buying are the only areas where ERP reports can provide details. There is some consumer data there, but it is likely to be minimal. 

 

To some degree, integration can help with the issue of information silos, but it can only go so far. However, some companies have begun to realize that time-consuming workarounds are inevitable disadvantages. The process of running reports through two to three different systems, then exporting the information to Excel, and forming a report takes time and manual errors. 

 

BI systems must address the differences between the software systems that business leaders rely on to control their businesses and to deliver genuinely accurate reporting that offers a unified view of the business. A successful BI platform should deliver data in real-time and be simple enough to use so that everyone in the company can create and change reports without needing specialized skills. 

Cloud ERP

As companies move toward Cloud ERP, they must think about the consequences of reporting and analytics. Most tech providers have taken the requisite measures to change the way you access data as they have moved to a cloud-first approach. Businesses that used a cloud ERP framework will no longer render direct database queries using structured query language due to security concerns. This is a technological transition, but it has far-reaching consequences for business intelligence. 

 

As companies move to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Supply Chain Management from Microsoft Dynamics AX, for example, they will have a variety of options for accessing data and running reports. A better solution for businesses looking for a dependable BI platform with a low total cost of ownership is to look for a robust, validated reporting and analytics product that is optimized for high performance and ease of use. 

Building Powerful BI Strategy

In any company, BI can be used to effectively improve operations.  Everyone will concentrate on the same goals, collaborating with the same KPIs to push action and develop procedures, when the whole team is working from the same strategy and has access to a common source of reality. Although technology is a part of every discussion about business intelligence, it should not be the baseline. Building an effective BI strategy must address the requirements of the organization’s financial and operational decision-makers. It should meet financial and operational reporting needs with powerful and adaptable tools that enable everyone in the company to create and adjust ad hoc reports without requiring advanced training or IT skills. 

 

At Global Data 365, we provide effective business intelligence solutions to meet your company’s needs. Some major questions that make their BI strategy effective are: 

 

– What are the record systems of your business data? 
These are typically the starting point for creating a cohesive approach to reporting, putting together data that provides business leaders with a comprehensive picture, a unified understanding of what’s going on in the company. 

 

– In the company, how does your team use reporting? 
Which reports do decision-makers consult on a regular, weekly, or monthly basis? What happens if you need an urgent report? 

 

– Are the financial reporting systems capable of completing period-end closing quickly and efficiently? 
Is there a way to make the period-end process more efficient and automated? Do the numbers in the general ledger and sub-ledgers of the ERP method immediately connect to the reconciliations and supporting worksheets? 

 

– When do the stakeholders receive the information? 
Have you ever had a situation where you wanted details right away but couldn’t get them? What were the consequences of the delay? 

 

– Is your company thinking of shifting to cloud ERP or cloud CRM system? 
If it is so, you must link with a provider who can meet your needs both now and, in the future, when you migrate to the cloud. 

 

When you answer these questions, it can help you figure out what you want to do with BI in the coming years, as well as the kinds of benefits your company will reap in the short and long run. 

 

Usually, when companies are implementing a BI plan, the finance department’s specific reporting requirements are ignored, but with Global Data 365 onboard that won’t happen, as we prioritize customer satisfaction. 

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How can IT be removed from Financial Reporting
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How can IT be removed from Financial Reporting?

How can IT be removed from Financial Reporting

Financial reporting plays a crucial role in providing real-time insights, especially in crisis scenarios. If you are asked to present up-to-the-minute information on cash flow, chances are you will create a worst-case scenario based on some new assumptions, such as a 20% decrease in sales and a 15-day delay in collections. Even though you’ve generated hundreds of cash flow reports, you’ve never been asked for this exact version before. It requires some additional details, such as a sales pipeline review and improvements to the aging study. Almost anyone who has ever worked in finance or accounting has encountered a situation like this at some stage. With the coronavirus outbreak, business leaders couldn’t bear to have inefficiencies slowing their access to the information as they tried to evaluate the situation and react quickly. 

Eradicate the Chokepoints

To produce or change system reports, the finance and accounting department has mainly focused on IT experts or costly outside consultants. Many accounting and ERP frameworks provide report design tools that are inflexible and require a steep learning curve. This raises a variety of difficulties. For starters, it establishes a reliance on a third-party department. Cross-team dependencies are common in most organizations, but when one department’s goals vary from those of others, conflict or chokepoints occur, preventing work from being accomplished quickly and efficiently. 

 

When a particular department is overburdened with conflicting interests, problems may occur. Many IT divisions were preoccupied with tasks related to the enablement of remote staff as the coronavirus crisis unfolded, for example. This occurred at precisely the moment when C-level executives required the most urgent access to financial data and analysis. Businesses can try to remove these forms of dependencies as much as possible as a long-term strategy, so those cross-functional collaboration strategies will concentrate on areas where teamwork and diverse viewpoints add real value. 

Enhance Flexibility

The second issue with conventional reporting tools is that they often lack the versatility that finance and accounting users need. Because of its immense strength and versatility, most F&O users tend to work in Excel. Excel is an excellent tool for manipulating, analyzing, and visualizing data. Almost every finance expert knows how to make good use of it. The finance and accounting department will kill two birds with one stone by allowing real-time data from various software systems to be accessed directly inside Excel. 

 

The second issue with conventional reporting tools is that they often lack the versatility that finance and accounting users need. Because of its immense strength and versatility, most F&O users tend to work in Excel. Excel is an excellent tool for manipulating, analyzing, and visualizing data. Almost every finance expert knows how to make good use of it. The finance and accounting department will kill two birds with one stone by allowing real-time data from various software systems to be accessed directly inside Excel. 

 

For starters, they may reduce their reliance on technology. Second, they will enable finance and accounting professionals to create reports and conduct analyses using a single, strong, and familiar tool. Many businesses have found interest in implementing web-based dashboards so that leaders around the enterprise can have real-time access to a shared collection of business metrics. A few of these web-based dashboard platforms follow a common user-empowerment philosophy, allowing the finance department to set the agenda and implement a strategy for carrying out corporate dashboards without relying on the IT department in the long run. 

Eliminate Errors

When finance takes over the reporting role, it will be able to address another issue that most F&O teams are familiar with. Traditionally, manually copying and pasting data from ERP, CRM, and other internal systems into Excel was needed for reporting and analysis. It is a time-consuming procedure that is prone to introducing errors into the reporting process. As data source formats alter (for example, when a new row is added to a General Ledger report), data may be pasted incorrectly into a pre-defined Excel template. Expert spreadsheet users will also incorporate error-checking algorithms or workarounds to avoid incorrect results in this case, but such methods are far from foolproof. 

 

Another major disadvantage of the copy/paste process is that it is time-consuming. It generates reports that are based on out-of-date data. Data extracted from a source system, such as ERP, no longer provides an accurate and up-to-date picture of what’s happening in the industry. Data must be updated, and then copy/paste procedure must be repeated to review reports. Building a reporting strategy focused on real-time data access is a safer option. 

An Alternative Approach

Consider this alternative strategy, in which data is made accessible in real-time by connecting to multiple source networks within the enterprise. Because when the finance department can create reports directly in a familiar method like Excel instead of having to copy and paste data from other systems, it can concentrate on what it does best: compiling and evaluating data to make better business decisions. 

 

The need to refresh content won’t arise since this system enables real-time access to information. Direct links to source systems such as ERP or CRM may be used to automatically refresh data. With less effort, less cross-team dependency, and a lower risk of mistakes, everybody gets a real-time view of what’s going on in the company. 

 

All these advantages are open to companies using several off-the-shelf ERP, CRM, and other software systems due to Global Data 365‘s powerful reporting tools. Reports can be created, updated, and distributed securely within the organization. Users only have access to information they can see due to built-in data protection. The year 2021 will see a renewed emphasis on software automation tools. Automation of reporting and related tasks is a reasonable first step for companies looking to improve efficiencies by doing more with less, and remote workers aim to collaborate easily and efficiently with other team members. 

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Where BI fits into your Data Strategy
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Where BI fits into your Data Strategy?

Where BI fits into your Data Strategy

With the rise of predictive and prescriptive analytics, driven by advancements in machine learning and AI, traditional business intelligence (BI) techniques are evolving. BI is no longer just about historical data insights; it now incorporates features once exclusive to advanced analytics platforms. As organizations build out their data strategies, it’s crucial to understand the distinct roles BI and other analytics tools play. Knowing where BI fits into your data strategy is key to maximizing the value each platform brings and ensuring data-driven decisions are made effectively. 

 

Here, we will look at where business intelligence fits into the current analytics landscape and how business analytics is changing as tools, strategies, and staff requirements change. 

Business Intelligence vs. Business Analytics: What’s the difference?

In the widest sense, analytics refers to any technology-enabled problem-solving activity. Experts classify analytics into four groups on a scale of one to four, with descriptive and diagnostic analytics on the lower end of the scale and predictive and prescriptive analytics on the higher end. When starting an analytics system, most companies start with BI, which is part of the descriptive process. Business intelligence is the method of transforming data into actionable intelligence that helps an organization make strategic and tactical decisions. A good BI strategy, it’s what makes it possible for a company to collect, analyze, and present data. 

 

It’s all about the data, according to Beverly Wright, executive director of Georgia Tech’s Scheller College of Business’s Business Analytics Centre. It isn’t attempting to do something other than telling a story about what the data is showing us. While some business people can associate BI with analytics, Wright says data professionals differentiate between the two. Some define BI as providing insight into what has occurred, while others describe analytics, especially advanced analytics, as predicting what will occur in various future scenarios. 

Business Intelligence for Business Use

BI uses more organized data from conventional business platforms, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) or financial software systems, to provide views into previous financial transactions or other past activities in areas like operations and supply chain management. According to analysts, BI’s importance to companies today stems from its ability to provide insight into such areas and business tasks as legal reconciliation. 

 

According to Wright, BI tools, like many other parts of the business technology stack have developed to become much more intuitive and user-friendly. She describes that in the past, companies used data scientists to use these systems to create dashboards. They’re now completely automated. As a result, companies can more effectively implement data systems that enable non-technical business owners to use BI tools to generate reports. Obtain much of the information they need without involving data professionals in day-to-day operations. Analysts believe that this alone qualifies BI technologies as critical business tools. 

BI as a Gateway to Business Analytics

While reporting solutions and other BI tools have a position in the enterprise, analysts claim they have limited capabilities. Bain & Co., a multinational management consulting company, estimates that more than half of companies use at least three separate analytics providers to produce performance reports in its 2017 study Six IT Design Rules for Digital Transformation.  

 

BI tools don’t offer the kind of in-depth data analysis that can lead to new market opportunities and development. According to John Myers, a senior analyst in business intelligence, “BI is not driving sales and innovation.” Enterprise Management Associates employ intelligence. Even though Myers reports that 20% of US businesses are already at the BI level, he believes that most companies do not want to stop using analytics, and attempts are being made there. Users can begin by looking at sales data and then want that data to be calculated by state or product, according to Myers. Then they’ll like to see their top 10 customers from the previous year, as well as their common characteristics. Forecast which customers will be in the top 10 in the coming year based on that detail. 

BI in Your Data Strategy

While data professionals continue to play important roles in advanced analytics, such as modeling, Myers says their participation varies depending on the business case. To detect possible credit card fraud, for instance, advanced analytics systems rely on unmonitored models rather than data scientists querying the systems. Organizations generally buy off-the-shelf BI products as well as commercial advanced analytics products, Myers adds, but they tend to have their own data professionals build the machine learning and AI capabilities they need because there’s not a set of packages on the market; the products just aren’t there.  

 

Many BI tools, according to Brahm, are bringing in more and better data signals to generate more reliable, informative reports that blur the boundaries between BI and more advanced analytics. He believes that these new technologies are assisting users in making better decisions by answering questions about how to maximize and optimize the business, such as who the company can target, what promotions are available, and which ones are available to whom.  

 

Technology organizations are more advanced in their implementation of advanced analytics capabilities, such as machine learning and AI, and are more likely to have done so already. If you find out more about how BI is helping to transform businesses, and where BI fits into your data strategy?  Contact us.  

How Global Data 365 can help you?

As a premier provider of Power BI services in the Middle East and Africa, Global Data 365 empowers organizations to streamline data management, gain actionable insights, and make smarter business decisions. Our expert team specializes in delivering tailored solutions that address the unique needs of each client, ensuring that Power BI maximizes impact across their operations. By understanding where BI fits into your data strategy, we help you leverage the full potential of business intelligence to drive growth and success. Trust Global Data 365 to elevate your BI capabilities and deliver measurable results.

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We are the authorized distributor of insightsoftware in Middle East. We have worked with 100+ companies in solving their reporting pain points and are committed to providing companies with fast and convenient data access methods from Microsoft Dynamics ERPs using insightsoftware's products and Microsoft Power BI.

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Become a Partner

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