Microsoft Partner Network Bloggers

Upgrade Strategies for SharePoint 2010

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:55:48 GMT

RDA Corp writes "[by Steve Mann]...If you missed the Quest webcast on SharePoint 2010 migrations (featuring Joel Oleson), I highly recommend viewing the recorded session which can be found here...A few main points..." more

Microsoft Dynamics ERP Pricing and Licensing Light User Announcement

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:52:36 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "Passing along an important update regarding new changes to our Microsoft Dynamics ERP pricing and licensing that you definitely need to ensure you are up to speed on...We are restructuring our Microsoft Dynamics® Client for Microsoft Office® (DCO) offering as a suite...Starting September 1, 2010, Business Ready Licensing customers have..." more

Using SQL to Retrive Info From Dynamics GP

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:46:59 GMT

Rose Business Solutions Inc writes "[by Steve Chapman]...Retrieving information from Dynamics GP for reporting purposes is so easy to do because there are several great tools available...Victoria Yudin writes a blog in which she generously shares SQL code that allows you to easily create SQL views to retrieve information from Dynamics GP...Execute the query and it will create..." more

Delivering a Smooth Transition to OCS

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:27:32 GMT

Aspect writes "[by Serge Hyppolite]...There are several ways to plot a comfortable learning curve for contact center agents beginning to use UC capabilities...Fear of the unknown is no match for the contagion of enthusiasm. After phone-only users shift to an empowered UC platform experience like Microsoft Office Communications Server (OCS) they quickly..." more

Governing Information Over the Long Term

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:08:05 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Brian Babineau]...IT staff’s responsibilities now extend well beyond running systems. They are now mired in business process, compliance, and litigation support...The expansion of IT responsibilities...dictates the need for IT to change their strategies when looking for and evaluating information management solutions...IT frequently takes a shortsighted tactical approach to information management without..." more

Springboard Virtual Roundtable: Migrating from IE 6 to 8

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:55:57 GMT

Benchmark Learning IT Blog writes "...many companies have not made a step out of Internet Explorer 6...However as support for Windows XP fades...these companies are biting the bullet as they move to Windows 7...Microsoft’s Springboard website announced they are having a Virtual Roundtable discussion about migration strategies...Click on Save the Date and..." more

HP Datavault and SBS MVP Kevin Royalty Roadshow

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:20:49 GMT

Susan Bradley writes "Hewlett Packard NEW Datavault (Vail) and SBS MVP Kevin Royalty Roadshow - coming to a city near you...Join Microsoft SBS and Home Server MVP Kevin Royalty...for an evening Roadshow event in conjunction with Hewlett Packard that is focused on the “New” upcoming..." more

Tips on Taking the Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 Applications Exam

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:18:44 GMT

Customer Effective writes "[by Patrick Picklesimer]...I am currently working to become a Microsoft Certified IT Professional for Microsoft Dynamics CRM...The purpose of this blog is to outline my experience in preparing for this exam and provide readers with some helpful tips, training methods and resources...Here’s a recap of some of the types of training I utilized..." more

The Future of Risk and Compliance

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:03:36 GMT

Sai Sireesh writes "...the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission adopted a final rule entitled “Facilitating Shareholder Director Nominations”...Under the new SEC final rule, management is not required to include shareholder nominees for more than 25% of the total board seats...From an information technology point of view, this may result..." more

Distributed Co-Creation Moves to the Mainstream

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:51:40 GMT

NewsGator writes "[by Melissa Risteff]...Lists of things you desperately need to know are a dime a dozen...we always snap to attention when they come from the thinkers at McKinsey...who just released a compelling list of 10 tech-enabled business trends to watch...seven out of 10 executives say Web communities regularly create value...Importantly, for such Web communities to succeed..." more

Now Available: Infrastructure Planning and Design Guide for Windows USV!

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:01:15 GMT

Venkat Ganti writes "...Windows User State Virtualization (USV) helps IT get started with planning a Windows USV solution. It can be difficult for IT to find the right balance between centralized management of business-critical data and a rich user desktop experience. Reduce time and planning costs by following..." more

Enlightening Customer Survey on Green IT

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:34:30 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Kathrin Winkler]...It is conventional wisdom that our customers and employees want us to be socially and environmental responsible...At the end of last year, we added a new question to our standard customer survey...Skeptics who wonder whether "Green IT" or "sustainability" are self-delusional corporate fads really need to take a couple of hours to read through..." more

Insights on SEO and URL Management

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:50:59 GMT

SiteWorx writes "[by Shadee Sedghi]...Our August SEO webinar shared insights on the impact that your website’s information architecture and URL structure have on your performance in search engines...access the webinar recording, SEO and URL Management: The What and How of Website URLs, or download the SEO webinar presentation slides... Below you’ll find..." more

A Better Setup for Data Loss Prevention

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 01:03:22 GMT

SHBO Technologies writes "[by WAtheras]...43 percent of companies that lose data in a disaster never reopen, and 90 percent are out of business within two years...How can you prevent data loss-without the hassle and expense of staying on top of the latest technology...if you’d prefer your IT staff to work on revenue-producing projects, you may want to consider..." more

Bookmark the FY11 Microsoft Dynamics Offer Summaries

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 01:00:23 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "...you know it is important to not lead with pricing during the sales process...To aid you, we've developed some new offers from both prospects and existing customers...The FY11 Q1 Microsoft Dynamics Offer Summary Sheet is now available...Remember to add..." more

Tricky Moments Building a Windows Phone 7 Control

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:15:56 GMT

Telerik writes "[by Georgi Atanasov]...Yesterday Microsoft announced that more than 300 000 developers have already downloaded the WP7 Developer Tools Beta. Based entirely on Silverlight, phone development has never been easier...I want to reveal some tricky moments in developing a simple DatePicker control for WP7. The control should mimic..." more

Aurora Beta: Hot Tip on Creating a Group Policy

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:22:43 GMT

Susan Bradley writes "One of the things you notice upon cracking open the current beta of Aurora is that while it has the Group policy management console it does not have group policy predone for you...But no worries you can export them from SBS 2008 and put similar ones in Aurora...To export... and import into Aurora do the following..." more

Dynamics CRM: When to Use a Marketing List

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:23:22 GMT

Customer Effective writes "[by Joel Lindstrom]...A common question when building a list of records in Microsoft Dynamics CRM is “should I use a view or a marketing list?” This question doesn’t always have a straightforward answer...A common misconception ...is that you HAVE to use a marketing list...Here are the main differences..." more

Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:53:50 GMT

BCG Systems Inc writes "[by Jo Ann Wetzel]...Microsoft recently outlined their vision of the future - Cloud Computing...I've not only seen a tremendous amount of interest around this solution, but also a lot of questions around it...So what are the 3 most frequently asked questions?...With any technology, there are always..." more

SBSC: Earn $500 Marketing Development Funds from Microsoft!

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:28:37 GMT

Eric Ligman writes "...the U.S. Team has just announced a great offer for the Microsoft Small Business Specialist (SBSC) partners located within the United States to earn marketing development funds directly from Microsoft...funds are available for you to drive demand generation efforts...To see all of the details behind this promotion..." more

Welcome to Desktop as a Service

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:38:28 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Jas Dhalliwal]...I talked about a golden opportunity for organizations to move to virtual desktop infrastructures (VDI) instead of following a traditional desktop OS upgrade path...Whether replacing or upgrading PCs...the dynamics of our time almost mandate a complete rethink of the traditional ‘it’s time to refresh our desktop..." more

5 Steps for Successful Social Knowledge Networks

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:08:44 GMT

Inmagic writes "[by Phil Green]...The success of your Social Knowledge Network strategy is measured by the outcome...But a successful output is contingent upon quality input...we've identified five key steps to ensuring a successful output...In it I explain..." more

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Exams are Available

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 20:50:31 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "With the new release of Microsoft Dynamics GP general availability announced back in April at Convergence...the Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 exams are now here!...Exam Numbers are as follows:.." more

Microsoft Partner Network Transition Tool Walk Through

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 19:23:25 GMT

Eric Ligman writes "...new tool called the “Microsoft Partner Network Transition Tool” designed to help make the transition for the existing Gold Certified Partners and Certified Partners...I put together a virtual walk-through...of how this tool works so that partners can quickly and easily use this for their organizations today. First, navigate to..." more

Fix for CRM Pre-Filtered Reports and SSRS P1 Error

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 19:19:11 GMT

Customer Effective writes "[by Joel Lindstrom]...A few weeks ago, we upgraded some environments to SQL 2008 R2. After that upgrade, we started to see a strange issue when uploading a report with pre-filtering to CRM. The report will upload fine, but when you run the report, you get an error regarding parameter P1...here’s how you can get them to work correctly:..." more

Microsoft Office Communicator vs Google Video Chat

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 21:10:52 GMT

Catapult Systems writes "[by Joe Stocker}...Since Google now offers the ability to have IM/Presence/Voice/Video within a web browser, I thought I would compare the bandwidth usage of a video call against Microsoft Office Communicator....Conclusion..." more

Learn how the Changes to the Microsoft Partner Network will Affect You

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:41:49 GMT

Richard Tubb writes "...The webinar is aimed at both existing Small Business Specialists and Registered partners interested in Small Business Specialist status, and will provide an overview of the Microsoft Partner Network for Small Business Specialists including detail of the new Small Business and Medium Solution Provider competencies..." more

Can You Meet the Growing Requirements of the New Consumer 2.0?

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:41:10 GMT

Aspect writes "[by Gary Barnett]...Consumers are increasingly troubleshooting support issues with their peers, voicing their opinions and seeking product information through social networks and online communities. This presents an opportunity and a challenge for companies, as the consumer’s newfound collective intelligence puts the customer in the power seat. This next-generation consumer expects to interact with companies how and when they want...astute organizations are developing and deploying strategies to..." more

How to Build a SharePoint Community

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:41:02 GMT

Bamboo Solutions writes "[by John Anderson]...Mark described the evolution of an evangelist for a community as beginning as a lurker, prior to moving on to their initial participation when they feel compelled to participate. Continued participation, and the acknowledgement and recognition that come with regular participation evolves into becoming a de facto evangelist for the community...begin your community-building initiative by identifying the biggest pain points..." more

How to Navigate the Microsoft Partner Network Portal More Efficiently

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 21:34:56 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "...In the Microsoft Dynamics world, we continue to drive partners to PartnerSource as your "go-to" website. What challenges do you run into when trying to locate the proper information, sales & marketing tools, etc. within PartnerSource..." more

Getting Maximum ROI From Your Dynamics GP System

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 21:32:11 GMT

BCG Systems Inc writes "[by Robert Elliott]...Are you getting the maximum return from your Dynamics GP system? As a manufacturer you’ve embraced Lean Manufacturing practices, tightened your supply chain and may have implemented Kaizen principles or Six Sigma methodology to stay competitive...The typical manufacturer has been on Dynamics GP for at least 3 to 5 year and the users can be described as:" more

Very Useful Instructions on OSD Imaging Web Page

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:06:38 GMT

Catapult Systems writes "...how to create a web page that allows OSD users to setup imaging themselves without having to use the System Center Configuration Manager 2007 console..." more

Code and Instructions on how to Toggle SharePoint 2010's Ribbon

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:06:32 GMT

Concurrency writes "[by Jourdan Laik]...For unauthenticated users the ribbon makes no sense and is irrelevant...we still need the functionality for users who are authenticated...so we can’t get rid of it...There is a solution that fits the needs of designers, developers, their clients and their end-users...the SP2010 Ribbon Toggler! Toggle it with a keystroke, querystring, or a button. Let’s implement it..." more

Tip when Running Hosted Web Core in Windows Azure

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:06:16 GMT

Active Web Solutions, Ltd. writes "[by Richard Prodger]...how to run IIS Hostable Web Core is Azure is a great starting point for simple hosting in an worker role. However, I struggled to get this working locally and kept getting 'module not found errors'. A quick look in the event log and it turns out..." more

Have You Seen the Exchange 2010 Insufficient Access Error? If not, you will

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:05:40 GMT

Catapult Systems writes "[by Tim Harrington]...This is one of the most common errors and can be seen while performing a variety of functions within Exchange 2010...Exchange needs specific rights on AD objects that it manages. If it doesn’t, then all sorts of issues will arise. Not only does this check box need to be checked for the user object, but..." more

True or False? Upgrading MOSS 2007 To SharePoint 2010 is Easy?

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:48:17 GMT

Sogeti writes "[by Edward Nelms]...introduction to allow you to get comfortable with your options. It’s actually pretty decent what Microsoft has provided for completing this task successfully...There are two ways you can upgrade SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint 2010. You can do an in-place or database attach...The second way allows you to attach SharePoint 2007 backups to a SharePoint 2010 Web Application and the databases will be upgraded automatically..." more

Microsoft Cloud Computing & Services is so much more than just BPOS

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:05:27 GMT

Eric Ligman writes "...BPOS (Business Productivity Online Services) is a component of Microsoft cloud computing / Microsoft cloud services; however, it is not the holistic, all encompassing definition of Microsoft cloud computing / Microsoft cloud services, it is merely one offering available. Let’s take a look in a little more depth at what Microsoft Cloud Computing / Microsoft Cloud Services is and offers…" more

Is there more to Surface than Games? Imagining a Disruptive Bus App.

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:01:17 GMT

IdentityMine writes "[by Lu Silverstein]... received the latest Microsoft Surface treasure chest...What’s so special about the treasure? The objects are tagged with clear, invisible-to-the-naked-eye codes that unlock a unique function when placed on the Surface...Here’s the challenge - even people who love the Surface concept struggle to see a business application...to produce a disruptive and highly profitable user experience (UX) that works commercially. Developers have chalked their challenge up to..." more

Solution to Reporting Services Error After Creating a SharePoint Site

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 23:37:28 GMT

Second Foundation Intelligence writes "[by John White]...create a site that isn’t named either Reports or ReportServer, and set it up. The tricky part was deleting a site that I couldn’t navigate to. It would be easy with Server, but this was Foundation. SharePoint designer did the trick nicely...Be aware of existing virtual directory names when creating subsites on the same server..." more

Reaching Customers on Social Platforms is more than "look at me"

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 23:38:09 GMT

Jelecos writes "[by Dawn Sailors]...What many companies fail to consider, however, is that you should understand the do's and don'ts for reaching customers on social platforms, or your social media campaign can backfire in as little time as it takes to click ‘unfollow’...you can't approach it as a way to make a quick sale. Successful integration means connecting with your customers and forming a sense of friendship and trust, providing them with relevant information that helps them make..." more

Are You Skilled Enough for the Era of IT Change?

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 23:33:45 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Chuck Hollis]...we're going through a period where IT is built differently, operated differently and consumed differently...It's clear to me that the legacy specializations we so often find in IT organizations just won't be so much in demand going forward...the most valuable skills going forward are those that can accelerate change within larger organizations -- being able to..." more

How to Embed a Report in an Iframe Available to all CRM Users

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 23:21:00 GMT

Customer Effective writes "[by Joel Lindstrom]...it is possible to embed a report in a form iframe in a way that harnesses the standard CRM report viewer, and also harnesses crm reporting functionality, such as the CRM_URL parameter and pre-filtering. Here’s how to do it...The result will be a report embedded in an Iframe which will be available to all CRM users, no matter their connection type..." more

Handy Chart Rolls Out all the SharePoint 2010 Site Templates

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:16:24 GMT

Concurrency writes "[by Kelly Rusk]...SharePoint 2010 has several built-in site templates which may meet you requirements. The chart below is a list of the available site templates and their intended purposes. Keep in mind that any of these core templates can be customized and re-templated" more

Deep Dive into Exam 70-668 Pro: Microsoft SharePoint 2010 Administrator

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:09:23 GMT

Sogeti writes "[by Edward Nelms]...OK, here is the run down. Below you will find the actual skills measured on this exam, so if you are going to take this one atleast you will know what to expect. This is not the configuring exam that is more concentration on configuration and implementation, it is a little more involved. If you are looking to Microsoft to provide you..." more

Look at How Data Tells a Visual Story with Excel 2010

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:10:13 GMT

Pinnacle writes "[by Joel Chmiel]...The new Conditional Formatting and especially the new Sparklines feature allows me to show visual insight into the meaning of the numbers I am tracking or presenting. If you are looking for a way to quickly and easily make sense of data, but don’t want to spend minutes or even hours preparing charts and metrics, you will be pleased with..." more

Unload Frustration with this SharePoint Tip: Set a Quick List in "My Links"

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:02:05 GMT

Fpweb.net writes "[by Kelsey Wesche]...If you’re a member of several sites, SharePoint navigation can seem even more daunting. However, by creating a SharePoint quick list of links under My Links, you’ll be able to navigate faster to these important pages. Here’s how in just six easy steps." more

Big Enhancements Got My Attention in RMS 2.0 Feature Pack 1

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 22:54:59 GMT

Lanac Technology writes "[by CPage]...With this release Microsoft has stated that RMS 2.0 will have extended mainstream support through 2016, and a second feature pack is scheduled for 2012. This second feature pack will contain big enhancements like destination based taxes, floating cashiers, and central HQ “warehouse” capabilities for your inventory tracking..." more

Microsoft Dynamics: How to Hire a Marketing Professional Web Seminar Series

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:41:32 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "...I used to manage programs at Microsoft to help Microsoft Dynamics partners recruit, hire and train new talent...then, unfortunately, the economy soured...Now that the economy has somewhat picked up, I've heard of some partners driving great recruitment plans...For those of you that struggle...we put together some training to target marketing professionals...Find out how..." more

Getting Clearer on the Cloud

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:33:20 GMT

Inetu Inc writes "[by Jeanine S]...The new hype of web technology is cloud computing...but there is a lack of clarity related to what cloud computing is and how it can benefit your business...You might have seen various acronyms that end in –aaS referred to as “the Cloud” or “in the Cloud.” You also may have heard..." more

The Hidden Data Security Risks of Digital Copiers

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:18:21 GMT

SHBO Technologies writes "[by WAtheras]...While you’re busy making sure your data is safe by encrypting your wireless network, sending emails over a secure connection, and storing your backups...what are the chances that you’re still putting your information at risk?...It turns out that nearly every digital copier made since 2002 stores scans of every image they copy on an internal..." more

Dynamics AX: Interview with DynamicsAnywhere Executives

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:50:43 GMT

Brandon George writes "Back at the start of this year, I did an interview with DynamicsAnywhere'- Joop van Voorthuijsen...Now I have had another (virtual) sit down with Joop, to talk about the progress that has been made by DynamicsAnywhere, where things stand, how things are going, and the future...DynamicsAnywhere enables web based publihsed interactions, that can be consumed..." more

Helping IT People Get That Business Mindset

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:46:29 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Chuck Hollis]...There will always be a need for people who understand the enterprise IT domain...truly valuable IT people not only know their domain, but can tie it back to the business...what will IT be doing that can create unique and differentiated value for the business? Usually it revolves around themes like..." more

Microsoft Dynamics Survey: Chance to Win 1 of 3 Xbox 360 Consoles!

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:48:27 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "...Microsoft is encouraging partners to participate in a survey of leadership and management traits and practices in the US Microsoft Dynamics channel...The intent of the study is to identify specific leadership behaviors...designed to build a 360˚ view of the partner leader and their organization and consists of two online questionnaires..." more

Reducing the Risks of Social Media Tools

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:08:21 GMT

NewsGator writes "[by Eric Sauve]...we wanted to share a couple of interesting things that Merck is doing – socially speaking...Bob discusses an innovative approach of getting people to understand the value and behavior of communities...Employees are going to go out and use social media tools. If we don’t provide them social media tools that meet their needs..." more

Overview of Microsoft Windows InTune

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:28:15 GMT

Bechtle writes "...InTune is the new Cloud based systems management tool from Microsoft, formerly known as “System Center Online” and has been long awaited...The ability to manage multiple locations/organizations from one central, online point is attractive to a lot of people for a lot of reasons...I’m sure you will agree that it already..." more

Top 10 Ways to Lead More Effectively with Humor

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:06:20 GMT

Benchmark Learning writes "Professional skills are becoming increasingly important in today's work world...20 seconds of laughter yield the same benefits as 3 minutes of hard rowing. A...study reported 84% of executives believe a worker with a good sense of humor does a better job...here are the top 10 ways to more effectively lead with humor..." more

A Straightforward Approach to Cloud Security

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:00:19 GMT

Capgemini Group writes "...I can’t begin to count how much I have read on cloud security, and how few real answers I have seen...So imagine my delight when I encountered the first document that lays it all out clearly in a visual model with an understandable and cohesive approach...the Cloud Security Alliance deserves a mention for its recently announced..." more

What is The Fantastic Tavern and Why It Might Appeal to You

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:08:50 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Michelle Flynn]...is a meeting of minds online and at welcoming hostelries; a community of brand and agency digital planners & creatives who share insights, expertise, experience...For each gathering, a theme is selected that we believe is relevant...and will inspire both contributions and debate...There are no real rules for inclusion in the Fantastic Tavern community as we’ve never..." more

Microsoft Dynamics: Making of a Successful Marketing Campaign Web Seminar

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:11:46 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "... many of you expressed interest in the upcoming web seminar where our award winners would share insights to their campaign successes. That web seminar is now scheduled, and registration details are highlighted below...Learn from the successes of your marketing peers in this 90 minutes session where..." more

Consolidation of the IT Industry

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:10:16 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Chuck Hollis]...Dell intends to purchase 3PAR...Not entirely a surprise if you're a close industry-watcher like I am....so I thought I'd offer up some personal observations as well...Our IT industry is rapidly maturing and consolidating. Behind the obligatory "cloud buzz" are strong themes around converged and virtualized infrastructure...The real story...is more about the consolidation of the IT industry, and how..." more

Earn Extra Money with Microsoft Dynamics Lead Referral Program!

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 17:14:10 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "The Microsoft Dynamics Lead Referral fee program helps you earn supplemental revenue...Learn how you can help your customers across a variety of industries connect with the Microsoft Dynamics partners who can deliver...Joining the Microsoft Dynamics Lead Referral program is easy. To be eligible for fees, your organization must meet the following conditions..." more

Dynamics CRM: Bulk Searches Made Easy

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 17:10:35 GMT

PowerObjects writes "Have you ever tried using the advanced find tool, only to find yourself staring at a REALLY long list of field names?...it might be nice to remove the fields that are not being used by your Organization...We found this tool on the MSCRM Tools blog...This tool can search using a filter that determines..." more

Bessemer’s Top 10 Cloud Computing Laws: Mind the GAAP!

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:57:21 GMT

Dr. Petri I. Salonen writes "The ninth law...is all about accounting and how to recognize revenue...but in this case we will be looking at how the overall revenue recognition is seen in the SaaS world...This law has a direct impact on both Cost Structure (CS) and Revenue Streams (RS) as the law has to do with money and how..." more

SharePoint 2010: Be Careful Upgrading

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 23:47:52 GMT

John White writes "Anyone that has worked with SharePoint for some time will tell you that setting it up using the Basic or default install is a big no no....It is much better to do a proper farm install...There is however one business case where the basic install has historically been the right approach...The SharePoint 2010 changes mean..." more

Is Aurora the Next Small Business Server?

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 23:11:23 GMT

Susan Bradley writes "...the new kid on the block, code named Aurora with an on premises server and cloud based SharePoint and Exchange is getting closer to a public beta...Aurora is another SMB server but technically it's not the next Small Business Server...Bottom line ...technology is still not plug and play. Small businesses still need" more

New Enterprise Collaboration Tools to Have on Your Radar

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 22:55:05 GMT

Inmagic writes "...Barb Mosher put together a round up of technologies organizations are using for enterprise collaboration...Her list is especially insightful, because she breaks down tools that have an established base...followed by new, more highly evolved collaboration approaches...it's clear to me that the enterprise is moving to a more social, multi-way workplace in which employees communicate..." more

Learn About the Cool New Features in Excel 2010

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 22:44:23 GMT

Harbor Computer Services writes "By now most of you have installed a copy of Office 2010...There are so many changes...that it’s not possible to list them...what I’m going to do is just post what’s brand new...So now that you’re overwhelmed how about a little training? Microsoft has free bite-sized training bits available online. Here are two that you should..." more

Fragmentation of Enterprise Contract Management

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 22:30:15 GMT

Darrin Poole writes "...It’s reasonable to conclude that Contract Management (ECM) solutions would follow the path of other technology life cycles...In a recent survey by AIIM...they reported that 36% of organizations surveyed have no ownership at the senior executive level...But, we are seeing changes here...Those departments who have the most to gain or lose..." more

Microsoft Dynamics SPC and MPC FY11 Kick Off Events!

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 18:02:20 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "It's that time again...of the new Microsoft fiscal year that many of our Microsoft Dynamics partners' salespeople and marketers look forward to. The official kickoff of the Sales Professional Community (SPC) and Marketing Professional Community (MPC)!!! Your opportunity to sign up for some key training...Whether you are new to Microsoft Dynamics or a tenured veteran, these programs..." more

Enterprise 2.0: To Pilot or Not to Pilot?

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:51:37 GMT

Inmagic writes "A few months ago I wrote a post on our blog about why we should kill E2.0 pilots. If you were looking for more of a drill-down on my argument, you've come to the right place!...The short answer? Yes and no. That's because every company is unique, and while launching a pilot..." more

Microsoft Partner Network Portal Shifts Gears

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:37:15 GMT

Eric Ligman writes "How many of you find yourselves looking for certain information you need and thinking, “How can I find this quicker?” In this post, I will show you to do just that...Earlier this year, the Worldwide Partner Group made an entire shift in the search engine on the Microsoft Partner Network portal to help..." more

Insights from Interns on Social Media

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:25:06 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "Today I was invited to talk to the interns of EMC’s Education Services organization. They wanted to know...what it means to do social media for a job...Of course, I couldn’t resist asking these digital natives a few questions...They asked me..." more

The Benefits of Microsoft Dynamics Health Plan Sales Solution

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:03:46 GMT

Ignify writes "Microsoft has introduced an integrated framework to enable health insurance plans to use Microsoft Dynamics® CRM...In addition to this new framework, Microsoft Dynamics CRM also helps healthcare providers overall...by streamlining these six critical areas...Microsoft Dynamics integrated healthcare management solutions make it easier..." more

Top 10 Cloud Computing Laws and the Business Model Canvas

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:31:39 GMT

Dr. Petri I. Salonen writes "I am now in the eight law in Bessemer’s Top 10 Computing Laws with an emphasis how to be able to monetize and utilize the data asset that the SaaS vendor is accumulating...This law (#8) is a reminder to me of the changes in business models and how cloud can provide new business model opportunities...Let’s view how this law impacts..." more

PartnerSource System Changes Coming August 14th!

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:17:49 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "...we strive to make PartnerSource a top notch resource for managing your orders and customer service plan renewals. These key enhancements to PartnerSource...are available for partners to review..." more

Five Useful Tools to Track Your Twitter Quitters

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:11:16 GMT

Fpweb.net writes "[by Kelsey Wesche]...one of the biggest features of micro-blogging service Twitter is...However, the downside is that it’s hard not to feel a slight sting of rejection when someone decides to unfollow you or your company. While there’s no cure...there is a way to track who stops reading your tweets and possibly..." more

Manage your Software Licenses More Effectively

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 01:00:24 GMT

Venkat Ganti writes "The Microsoft Assessment and Planning (MAP) Toolkit has a new Software usage tracking capability so that partners can help customers evaluate their Server and CAL licensing needs...Software Usage Tracking is a unique feature of the MAP 5.0 toolkit that helps customers determine the license compliance and simplifies..." more

Microsoft Dynamics GP Update!

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:39:53 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "...Are you thinking about offering Microsoft Dynamics GP in the cloud? This new White Paper discusses the best practices for planning, building, and deploying a hosting service for Microsoft Dynamics GP...For additional information, be sure to read..." more

Get Ready to Build and Deploy SharePoint Solutions in the Cloud!

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:59:08 GMT

Bamboo Solutions writes "...I want to spend a few paragraphs sharing a vision of what the next release of BPOS might mean to you - especially in the SharePoint space...the next release...will set off another huge wave of opportunity...The huge change...will be centered on applications that are built in SharePoint 2010 running in BPOS. These apps will blow competing..." more

Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP Beta

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 18:55:14 GMT

Benchmark Learning IT Blog writes "...helps keep your PCs and servers on the latest support level, provides ongoing improvements to the Windows Operating System...by including previous updates delivered over Windows Update as well as continuing incremental updates...In order to download and install the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 Beta you must..." more

Microsoft 50% Off N-2 Discount Promotion Extended!

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 18:36:08 GMT

Eric Ligman writes "Remember the Big Announcement! 50% Off Up-To-Date (UTD) Discount Extended to Office XP and Windows XP owners worldwide made on New Year’s Day?...this promotion has been extended through September 30, 2010!...it is a promotion that lets you move from your current version of Windows or Office...through the Open Value Subscription program, which means..." more

10 Reasons Not to Ban Social Media

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 18:25:49 GMT

EMC Corporation writes "[by Gina Minks]...Jane Hart posted a satirical video – 10 reasons to ban social media the other day. Shortly thereafter, she challenged everyone to come up with 10 reasons NOT to ban social media. Of course I can never just follow the rules, so here is my contribution with a twist..." more

Why is a Single Accounting Software System Better?

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 18:18:10 GMT

Lanac Technology writes "A single software system can definitely improve process operations. Multiple ERP Solutions that aren’t integrated throughout your business cause more headache than they save...With a single ERP point of control, the following benefits come true...Microsoft Dynamics® GP simplifies your business with a single solution that connects..." more

Announcing Worldwide Availability of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail!

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 18:01:46 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "Here's another "in case you missed it" news item that was announced last week...Congratulations to the Microsoft Dynamics AX and Retail teams for the release this new solution!...for midsized specialty retailers that offers a deep level of integration across..." more

Eight IT Disasters that Mean Real Money

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 17:33:08 GMT

Pinnacle writes "[by Eric Huggins]...I’ll never forget my first true IT disaster...I was congratulating the team when...The IT department soon informed me the new storage system had failed...and said one of the few things you never want to hear from the technology department...The wide-spread use of technology is all sectors of our lives increasingly adds..." more

Great News for MS Volume Licensing Customers

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:54:51 GMT

Eric Ligman writes "…who may need access to older versions of some of their Microsoft products. In September, several N-2 versions of products will be available for download on the Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) site…As of July, 2010, Microsoft has made available two N-2 version products…Now, starting in September…" more

Managing the 3Cs of Social Participation

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:50:13 GMT

MicrosoftPartnerNews writes "In a professional environment, it is easy to be overwhelmed by the three “Cs” of social media engagement — contacts, content and connections…Dawn Foster recently penned an excellent post…that presents a series of best practices she employs to manage…" more

SharePoint Best Practices Conference!

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:37:30 GMT

Bamboo Solutions writes "...There is no better place to put this into action than at the Best Practices Conference coming up this August 24-27 in Washington D.C. The number and quality of speakers is truly amazing…they will be surprised at how rapidly they can advance their knowledge about what is possible with SharePoint…There is another great thing happening…" more

Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011: The Power of Productivity Roadshows

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:35:29 GMT

Kevin Machayya writes "The release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, formerly ‘CRM5’, is coming soon and promises to deliver The Power of Productivity to customers and partners…We are excited to host our partners and begin to prepare them for this monumental new product…The training takes place September through October 2010 in multiple cities…" more

What Questions Do You Have About the Cloud?

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:30:59 GMT

BCG Systems Inc writes "[by Ken Klika]...I’m asked about Cloud Computing on a regular basis by my clients and prospects…Everyday someone dreams up another use, but I’ll classify most of them in three general categories…It’s exciting to see how our general acceptance of the internet as a business and IT resource has lead us to this point…organizations look to leverage…" more

Microsoft Windows Intune Information and Resources

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:48:19 GMT

Eric Ligman writes "Windows Intune is another one of the exciting announcements made at WPC10 this year that had a lot of people talking and asking for more…Based on the very high interest at #WPC10 in Windows Intune, plus the continued interest since WPC10, I am putting this post up with resources…" more

Partner Interview with Microsoft's Doug Kennedy

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:46:07 GMT

Brandon George writes "…WPC 2010 is now behind us, along with Microsoft's FY2010. With that, it's time for another interview with Microsoft's own Doug Kennedy, Vice President, Microsoft Dynamics Partners…Recently I virtually sat down with Doug, and posed a few questions about the Dynamics Partner Ecosystem, work Microsoft is doing to help Partners, and his advice…" more

Office 2010 Top Ten Favorite Features

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:36:40 GMT

Pinnacle writes "[by Joel Chmiel]...Why would I list the Ribbon as my number one loved feature in Office 2010 when the Ribbon was introduced in Office 2007?...in Office 2010, it’s been truly perfected and included in all Office products… But my favorite new reason to love the Ribbon is that it’s been added…" more

MS Dynamics CRM Email Router Spam Fix

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:34:19 GMT

PowerObjects writes "[Joe]…After months of careful planning you generate your first email campaign from MSCRM. Many cool dashboards are ready to go to see who is reading which emails and which links are being clicked. Then…you watch with dismay as many of the emails start bouncing back…as ‘spam’. Following these items should greatly…" more

SharePoint Business Connectivity Services is all About Connecting to External Data

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 01:22:12 GMT

Apps4Rent writes "You have a portal? Want to integrate some external data into your portal in a meaningful way? Nothing to worry! Here’s Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007’s Business Data Catalog (BDC) to facilitate…Key Components that comprises Business Connectivity Services include the following…" more

Windows 7 Game Changer: Goodbye VPN!

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 01:17:03 GMT

SWC writes "[by Pete Lee]...With Microsoft’s release of Windows 7, users now have more flexibility than ever before to work remotely-and your IT staff can better manage security and compliance across desktops anywhere, anytime…This is where Direct Access, a new feature available with Windows 7, changes the game. Now through Active Directory, users simply…" more

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Named a Leader by Two Independent Research Firms

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 01:13:41 GMT

Customer Effective writes "[by Mike Rogers]…Microsoft Corp. today announced Microsoft Dynamics CRM has garnered recognition as a Leader from two leading independent research firms, Gartner Inc. and Forrester Research Inc…These acknowledgements follow recent placements for Microsoft Dynamics CRM among the Leaders in…" more

What is PLM Data Obfuscation and Why Should I Care?

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 01:14:14 GMT

Aras writes "[by MarcL]...Master is not called / labelled “Part” – it’s labelled “0034543908543TG324” or something else confusing like that... the data are sometime split into different tables so that access is non-intuitive. This is “obfuscation” and it’s done by design. PLM systems have traditionally..." more

New Study on What Makes a Tweet Influential

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 01:14:29 GMT

Hewlett-Packard writes "[by Ethan Bauley]...How is it that certain topics manage to get more attention than others, thus “bubbling to the top" and changing the agenda of an online community?...Dr. Bernardo A. Huberman, the director of HP Labs’ Social Computing Lab, released research on the nature of user influence on social media networks such as Twitter. After analyzing 22 million tweets…" more

SQL Mirroring - Are You Protecting Your Data?

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 01:22:32 GMT

Trigon Technology writes "[by Chad Weaver]...I think SQL is one of the more robust applications, and, while amazingly complex, if your backup plan is implemented correctly, it is surprisingly easy to get your databases and all important data back up and accessible…Now, I finally get to my favorite way to protect data in a SQL server…" more