Microsoft Directions North America 2024 | Day 1
Explore key insights from the Directions North America 2024 keynote, focusing on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and AI innovations.
The opening keynote at Directions North America 2024 set an exciting tone for the conference, with a strong focus on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Mike Morton, Vice President of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, quoted Abraham Lincoln’s visionary statement, “The best way to predict the future is to create it,” emphasizing Microsoft’s commitment to leading AI advancements.
AI: A Core Technology for Partners and Businesses
The message was clear: Microsoft isn’t just keeping pace with AI, they’re leading the charge. The core AI technology and scenarios they develop will empower partners to create innovative solutions across industries and geographies.
Mike emphasized the importance of getting hands-on with AI. He suggested using it in your daily routines to gain a deeper understanding. Microsoft 365 Copilot was presented as a perfect starting point, promoting increased efficiency and productivity across various applications like sales and Business Central. He even mentioned Copilot’s ability to offer suggestions on employee performance, showcasing its expanding functionalities.
AI in Action: Dynamics 365 Business Central
Jannik Bausage, Principal Group Program Manager, and Horina Serbanescu, Director of Business Central Clients Engineering at Microsoft, showcased Dynamics 365 Business Central Copilot and how the software has transitioned from “jobs” to “projects,” reflecting a shift toward a more project-based work style.
Microsoft: The Undisputed Leader in Field Service
Another key takeaway was the focus on frontline workers. Hector Garcia, General Manager of Frontline Apps at Microsoft, acknowledged their vital role in the economy and how AI can positively impact their lives. AI-powered automation can free up frontline workers, ultimately improving their quality of life. He highlighted how AI can assist with education, training, and industrial maintenance, streamlining their workflow.
He also reinforced Microsoft Dynamics 365 Field Service as the #1 ERP vendor in both field service capabilities and overall functionality across various user personas. The new native integration between Dynamics 365 Field Service and Business Central further strengthens this position.
A Glimpse into the Future: Dynamics 365 Business Central Roadmap
Microsoft also provided a sneak peek of the Dynamics 365 Business Central roadmap for release wave 2, offering insights into upcoming features and functionalities that will further empower businesses.
Leader in Small Business ERP Solutions
Adding another feather, Microsoft was named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape, Worldwide SaaS, and Cloud-Enabled Small Business ERP Applications 2024! This recognition solidifies their position as a frontrunner in providing robust and innovative ERP solutions for small businesses.
Overall, the keynote at Directions North America 2024 painted a compelling picture of a future powered by AI, with Microsoft at the helm and its partners at the forefront of innovation. By embracing AI and utilizing tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot and Dynamics 365 Business Central Copilot, businesses are well-positioned for success in the ever-evolving technological landscape.