Introducing Copilot+ PCs

Introducing Copilot+ PCs 

by with No Comment Artificial IntelligenceMicrosoft 365

Introducing Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft Build 2024 brought about dynamic technologies like CoPilot and Neural Processing Units (NPUs). Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft introduced CoPilot+ PCs in Microsoft Build. 

Windows, Systems, Silicons and Chips have been built to provide the fastest, most ready AI Windows PCs ever built.  

Microsoft has worked with AMD, Intel, Qualcomm, and every major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Dell, HP, and Lenovo to create silicons and AI PCs. 

 

The Power of CoPilot+ PCs

Copilot has evolved beyond what one would think possible in just a very short period after its release. CoPilot PCs are the most powerful PCs in the world. This provides access to CoPilot across Windows. 

CPU, GPU and recently NPUs power the system architecture of Windows. These NPUs run at 40+ trillion operations per second (TOPS) which is quite incredible.

Take for example, if you were to push up a button forty trillion times at the rate of 10 times per second, it would take 126,840 years to complete that task. This is something the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) can do in a single second. Amazing! 

A common pitfall of fast PCs is always poor battery capacity. However, the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) solves this problem beautifully. The battery of Copilot+ PCs is two times more powerful than previous generations of laptops. This means it can last a whole day.

Windows is the most open platform for AI. Windows 11 has been rearchitected to optimize performance and battery with CoPilot. CoPilot is now added as a key on the keyboard of these PCs to start it. 

The first wave of Copilot+ PCs integrated into Microsoft Surface, Lenovo, HP, Dell, Asus, Acer, Samsung and others were released on June 18, 2024 and are now available.

 

Key features in CoPilot+ PCs

These are the key features of the Copilot PCs. 

1. Hardware requirements

Hardware requirements for CoPilot+ PCs to function with PCs like Dell include at least 16GB of RAM, 256GB SSD storage, and a 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second) Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This powerful hardware enables advanced AI capabilities.

2. Operating system

While regular PCs can run Windows 11, Copilot+ PCs have been specifically designed and optimized for AI integration at the OS level.

3. Recall

Copilot+ PCs come with exclusive AI features like Recall, which provides a “photographic memory” of your PC activities that you can search through using natural language. You no longer need to remember what file folder it was stored in, what website it was on, or scroll through hundreds of emails trying to find it.  Copilot+ PCs can take snapshots of your screen and remember everything you’ve seen, allowing you to search for and retrieve past information and files.

4. CoCreate

An AI-powered tool that can enhance your digital artwork and photos without any waste of time. By using the Neural Processing Units (NPUs), new innovative experiences are added to applications like Paint and Photos. 

5. Live Captions and Translation

Copilot can automatically caption audio and translate between over 40 languages, even when offline.

6. Integrated with Creative Apps

Copilot integrates with programs and is coming soon on Adobe Creative Cloud – PhotoShop, LightRoom, Firefly, Illustrator, and Premier Pro, to provide AI-powered assistance and capabilities. CoPilot is also integrating with DaVinci Resolve Studio to increase video editing and filmmaking effects. 

 

CoPilot+ PCs and Microsoft 365 

With CoPilot+ PCs integrated with Microsoft 365, CoPilot can reply to emails adequately within Outlook. 

With CoPilot, you can generate PowerPoint slides required for a pitch or presentation. This can be generated within a few minutes with ease and with a click. 

Join Evolve Connect’s Mastering CopIlot for Everyday Tasks with Microsoft 365. Register here.

 

The Future of AI

Microsoft’s partnership with Open AI will bring about the integration of GPT4o in CoPilot. This means interactions with PCs can be done with ease via text, audio, and videos. CoPilot PCs are changing the way we work and interact with technologies. 

Want to learn more about CoPilot? See Frequently Asked Questions about CoPilot. 

 

Women in Tech Webinar by Evolve Connect

by with One Comment Microsoft 365

Welcome to the Women in Tech by Evolve Connect — your go-to platform that brings together support engineers and businesses, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and growth opportunities. 

In today’s Women in Tech Minute, we highlight the key learnings from the Women in Tech Webinar. 

Thriving as a Woman in Tech Session by Ijeoma Mbaneme

The secrets to success are hard work and consistency.

“Continuous learning and improving your skills will help you stand out”

“Embrace mentorship – they can help you grow in your tech career as a woman”

“See challenges and opportunities for growth”

“Focus on becoming an asset and bring the best version of yourself”. 

“The secrets to success are hard work and consistency”

“Having an environment to practicalize is important to wrap up knowledge”

Set Goals – they will propel you to greater heights

“Learn something new to stay up to date with technologies”

“Create a vision board for your plans for the year.”

“Challenge the status quo – Be Different”

“Set priorities and boundaries for work-life balance”

“Have a support system with your employer and family”

Success is not just about professional achievement but also about fostering an environment where work-life harmony is achievable

“Prioritize your mental health so you can be at your best”

“Practice self-care”

“Celebrate your success no matter how small”

“Manage your stress level with sleep, exercise, and relaxation.”

“Take personal branding very seriously – people need to know who you are.”

With fearlessness, strength, hard work, determination and grace, women can dominate and thrive in Tech

Become a Part of Women in Tech Today!

Empowering Women in Tech

by with No Comment Artificial IntelligenceCloud ComputingMicrosoft 365

“If we do not share our stories and shine a light on inequities, things will not change.” – Ellen Pao.

Women have made remarkable contributions to artificial intelligence, and technology as a whole. According to Louisa Zhou, women only represent 33% of the tech-related workforce. 

Women still face significant barriers, including gender bias, limited access to opportunities, and delaying careers to care for families.

 

Views of Prominent Women in Tech 

Karen Sparck Jones, Professor at Cambridge Computer Laboratory

“I think it’s very important to get more women into computing. My slogan is: Computing is too important to be left to men.”

Erin Teague, Director of Product Management at YouTube

“Recognize and embrace your uniqueness…being a black woman, being a woman in general, on a team of all men, means that you are going to have a unique voice. It’s important to embrace that.”

 Anna Radulovski, Founder & CEO at WomenTech Network

“To create a more diverse and inclusive tech world, we need to inspire and empower the next generation of female role models to pursue and develop their careers in technology and become innovators, leaders and entrepreneurs. It’s a process and it’s not always straightforward. It takes time, action and support.

 

Introducing the Webinar: Empowering Women in Tech

To address these challenges and inspire a new generation of female technologists, Evolve Connect is excited to announce an upcoming webinar titled “Empowering Women in Tech,” focusing on resilience and success in the tech industry. This event will feature accomplished women in tech who are leaders. 

Date: Sunday, June 16th, 2024

Time: 2 pm

Platform: Teams 

Registration: Register here. 

 

Featured Speakers

Evolve Connect has brought together an exceptional lineup of women speakers who are knowledgeable and experienced in the tech industry. 

Speaker 1: Yassmina Bou Khuzam, Product Manager for Copilot

Speaker 2: Ijeoma Mbaneme, Global Technology Leader, Business Advisor and Women Empowerment Lead. 

Speaker 3: Anna Valverde, GiG World Wide Program Manager

 

Key Topics and Highlights

  1. Stories of Resilience

The Speakers will share their personal journeys, highlighting the obstacles they faced and how they overcame them. 

  1. Overcoming Gender Bias

The speakers will discuss practical strategies for overcoming gender bias in the workplace. This session will provide valuable advice on how to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in tech.

 

  1. Building a Support Network

Mentorship and networking opportunities for women. The webinar will provide insights on how to find and build a network of mentors and peers who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for career growth.

  1. Future Trends and Opportunities

Looking ahead, the speakers will discuss extensively trends in technology such as AI, and CoPilot. This will also include remote work opportunities. 

  1. Career Advancement Strategies

This session will offer advice on advancing your career in the tech industry.

 

Evolve Connect is offering training for women in tech. Book your slot and be a part of the revolution in tech as a woman, nursing mother and student. 

 

Why Attend?

  1. Inspiration and Empowerment

Listen to inspiring stories from successful women who have made significant impacts in the tech industry.

2. Practical Insights

These speakers will provide valuable knowledge and strategies to navigate and succeed in your tech career.

3. Networking Opportunities

This is an opportunity to connect with professionals, potential mentors, and experts in the field.

4. Support and Community

Evolve Connect has a community dedicated to empowering and supporting women in tech.

 

Join Us

The “Empowering Women in Tech” webinar is a must-attend event for anyone interested in advancing their career in technology and advocating for gender equity in the industry. Share, join, and support women in this drive to grow the tech industry. 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of a movement that is shaping the future of technology. Register today and take the first step towards resilience, empowerment, and remote work in tech. 

 

Together, let’s build a more inclusive and innovative tech industry where women can thrive and lead.

Getting Started with OneDrive

Getting Started with OneDrive

by with No Comment Microsoft 365

Getting Started with OneDrive

OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud storage service in the Microsoft 365 suite. It is designed to help you store, protect and share your files with others from anywhere on all your devices with the help of an Internet connection.

Benefits of using OneDrive

  1. You can have instant access to your data anywhere and at any time.
  2. You can rest assured that your data is safe even if something goes wrong with your local storage.
  3. Your data is secure with Microsoft’s encryption.
  4. You can collaborate (comment and edit) with colleagues on a file by simply sharing the link with them.

Why should I manage storage in OneDrive?

The free version of OneDrive comes with 5 GB of Cloud Storage. There is also the 100 GB storage per user and you can increase it to as much as 6TB depending on your licensing plan with Microsoft. This is huge, but it can still be used up. 

Managing your allocated storage can help improve performance, efficiency and authenticity.

 

OneDrive Storage Plans

  1. Microsoft 365 Personal

This goes for $69.99  per year or $6.99 per month and is strictly for one person. It works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It has 1TB of cloud storage.

  1. Microsoft 365 Basic

This plan goes for $19.99 per year or $1.99 per month. You can try it free of charge for one month. It is strictly for one person and has 100GB of cloud storage.

  1. Microsoft 365 Family

This plan goes for $99.99 per year or $9.99 per month. You can try it free of charge for one month. It is available for up to six people and has up to 6TB of cloud storage (1 TB per person).

Find out available features for each plan here.

 

File type, size and format supported by OneDrive 

Supported file types include:

1. Document files

2. PDF files

3. Text Documents

4. Compressed files

5. Media files

See detailed supported file types.

File Size Limits

The current file size limit for OneDrive is 250 GB. This limit may change in the future; it’s a good idea to check the official Microsoft documentation for the most up-to-date information.

 

Best practices for creating and naming files and folders

  1. Use clear and descriptive names

Use a concise and meaningful name that indicates the content of the file.

  1. Use a standard naming convention

Establish a consistent naming format, such as “YYYYMMDD – File Name” or “Project Name – File Description”.

  1. Keep file names short

Aim for file names that are 15-20 characters or less to ensure compatibility across different platforms.

  1. Create a logical hierarchy

Organize folders in a clear and logical structure, using categories and subcategories.

 

  1. Use unique and descriptive folder names

Use a brief and meaningful name that indicates the content of the folder. Ensure that folder names are unique and do not repeat to avoid confusion.

  1. Avoid duplicate folder names

Ensure that folder names are unique to avoid confusion.

  1. Keep folder names short

Aim for folder names that are 15-20 characters or less to ensure compatibility across different platforms.

  1. Use OneDrive’s built-in features

Take advantage of OneDrive’s features, such as file and folder sharing, version history, and search functionality.

 

Check out career paths from Microsoft here. 

 

How to create and manage folders in OneDrive

Using your mobile phone, create folders in OneDrive with these steps. 

  1. Login to Microsoft 365.
  2. Open the app drawer located in the lower right corner of your screen.
  3. From the list of apps, click on OneDrive to open it.
  4. Sign in or create an account if you don’t have one.
  5. Click on the + icon in the top right corner of your screen.
  6. Select Create folder from the pop-up menu.
  7. Add a descriptive but short name for your new folder.

There you go!

 

To create a subfolder, repeat the above process in the root folder. 

For example, if your main folder is named Test Folder and you want to create a subfolder inside Test Folder, simply open Test Folder and repeat the above process.

 

How to manage your folders and subfolders

Rename a folder or subfolder

  1. Navigate to the folder or subfolder you want to rename.
  2. Right-click on the folder or subfolder and select “Rename” from the context menu.
  3. Enter a new name and press “Enter”.

 

Move or copy a folder or subfolder

  1. Navigate to the folder or subfolder you want to move or copy.
  2. Drag and drop the folder or subfolder to the desired location.
  3. Alternatively, right-click on the folder or subfolder and select “Move to” or “Copy to” from the context menu.

 

Delete a folder or subfolder

  1. Navigate to the folder or subfolder you want to delete.
  2. Right-click on the folder or subfolder and select “Delete” from the context menu.
  3. Confirm deletion.

 

Manage folder and subfolder permissions

  1. Navigate to the folder or subfolder you want to share.
  2. Right-click on the folder or subfolder and select “Share” from the context menu.
  3. Enter email addresses or names to share with.
  4. Set permission levels (e.g., “Editor” or “Viewer”).

 

Organize folders and subfolders

  1. Use a logical hierarchy and descriptive names.
  2. Use subfolders to further organize files.
  3. Keep folder names short and unique.

 

Conclusion

OneDrive is an essential storage tool for businesses, organizations and schools. Dive into expertise knowledge on OneDrive with Evolve Connect. 

 

Microsoft Build 2024: New Applied Skills Credentials Microsoft Learn

MICROSOFT BUILD 2024: NEW APPLIED SKILLS CREDENTIALS.

by with No Comment Artificial IntelligenceMicrosoft 365

Microsoft Build 2024: New Applied Skills Credentials Microsoft Learn

Microsoft Applied Skills is a new initiative for individuals to get certifications targeted to practical skills. These skills are aligned with business goals and objectives.

The Applied Skills Credentials were introduced in October 2023 and are currently available for free. With the credentials, you can study using Microsoft Learn, write the exam and get a certification upon passing the exam. Studying with Microsoft Learn is self-paced and provides a medium to upskill.
The credentials are tailored specifically to practical skills relating to Microsoft technologies.

 

The credentials are verifiable and demonstrate proficiency in specific real-world scenarios.

The initial set of Applied Skills credentials covers a range of topics, including:

  1. Secure storage for Azure Files and Azure Blob Storage
  2. Configuring secure access using Azure networking
  3. Deploying and configuring Azure Monitor
  4. Developing an ASP.NET Core web app that consumes an API
  5. Securing Azure services with Microsoft Defender for Cloud regulatory compliance controls
  6. Configuring SIEM security operations using Microsoft Sentinel
  7. Creating and managing automated processes with Power Automate

 

Microsoft partnered with OpenAI to provide AI training and materials for individuals, based on the recent shift to AI. The New Applied Skills Credentials are AI-related credentials. The invention of ChatGPT4, ChatGPT4o, and Microsoft CoPilot has brought about job roles, and opportunities in the AI space. This is a major reason the new applied skills credentials are channelled towards AI.

 

The New Applied Skills Credentials

These are the New Applied Skills credentials designed to assist developers in the development of cloud and AI solutions announced in Microsoft Build.

  1. Accelerated app development using GitHub Copilot.
  2. Developing AI agents using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service and Semantic Kernel.
  3. Automated Microsoft Azure Load Testing using GitHub.

 

Stephen Jensen and Nandita Sampath, speakers at the Microsoft Build talked about navigating Microsoft Applied Skills credentials. Stephen Jensen leads the Microsoft Credentialing Product Management team while Nandita Sampath is the Principal Product Manager for Credentialing products. She steered the product strategy and launch of Microsoft’s Applied Skills credential and oversaw the Fundamentals Certifications.

These new credentials have been added to the present portfolio of Microsoft credentials, which includes over 20 Microsoft Applied Skills and 50 Microsoft Certifications in solution areas such as Data and AI, Infrastructure, Digital and App innovation, Business apps, Modern Work, and Security.

 

Certifications provide the opportunity to develop the necessary skills for critical positions, while Applied Skills enable the expansion of these skills for critical business scenarios. Collectively, they possess verifiable skill sets essential for the responsibilities and initiatives of AI and the Cloud.

 

In addition, Microsoft Learn has implemented new initiatives to enhance AI proficiency — including:

  1. Using artificial intelligence in daily operations: GitHub Copilot.
  2. Utilize the Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to develop and upgrade applications.
  3. for executives, Microsoft Copilot for Microsoft 365.
  4. Learn the fundamentals of Azure: AI Fundamentals.

 

Plans on Microsoft Learn are collections of curated content that may include documentation, code samples, modules, learning paths, and more. Plans include automated notifications, reports, sharing options, and goals to assist individuals and teams in achieving their learning objectives. The AI learning hub on Microsoft Learn is where these AI initiatives can be located.

 

Access the Applied Skills Credentials

To access the Applied Skills, navigate to your Microsoft Learn Profile,
Microsoft Learn Profile – Credentials – Applied Skills – Browse Applied Skills – Choose the Applied Skills of your choice. The exam takes 2 hours and doesn’t require the Proctor, Pearson Vue. The exam can be done from the Microsoft Page directly.

 

Microsoft Applied Skills is a game-changer, allowing individuals to differentiate themselves by showcasing practical abilities in critical technical areas. With Microsoft Applied Skills, you can get certifications to get job roles.

 

Evolve Connect provides certificates after training. The extensive and practical training gives you ready access and knowledge to acquire these Microsoft certifications. Learn with Evolve Connect to grow, and become an expert in the Microsoft field. Register today!

Power automate integration with microsoft 365

Power Automate Integration With Microsoft 365

by with No Comment Microsoft 365Power Automate

Power automate integration with microsoft 365

In today’s fast-paced world, businesses are constantly seeking ways to enhance productivity and efficiency. One powerful solution that has gained prominence is the integration of Power Automate with Microsoft 365. This dynamic duo offers a seamless approach to automating workflows, boosting productivity, and maximizing the potential of business processes.

Benefits of Integrating Power Automate with Microsoft 365

60% of occupations can save 30% of their time and be more productive with automation for the following reasons.

1. It helps you automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks so that you can focus on the more strategic tasks.

2. Power Automate with Microsoft 365 automates tasks with SharePoint, Dynamics 365, Azure, Power BI, Word, Outlook, Teams, and many more applications.

3. It automates tasks with third-party apps like Gmail, Dropbox, Jira, Asana, Mailchimp, Twitter, etc.

4. It reduces the risk of human error, so you can feel confident that tasks are carried out to the highest standard.

5. It is accessible anywhere. The mobile version of Power Automate makes it possible to create, run and check automated workflows anywhere.

6. It saves cost. You don’t need to bother about employing manual labour to deliver redundant tasks within the deadline.

How Does Power Automate Work?

Power Automate workflow, or flows, are based on triggers and actions.

1. A trigger starts the flow, for example, receiving an email from a key project stakeholder.

2. An action is what happens once the flow is triggered. This can include creating a task when an email marked as high-importance is received. A flow can have one or more actions.

Power Automate Integration with Microsoft 365

This highlights Power Automate workflows with Microsoft 365 apps.

Microsoft Teams

microsoft teams with power automate

With Power Automate integration with Teams, these default templates are available

  • Schedule replies in Teams
  • Save Teams messages to OneNote
  • Forward emails to a channel automatically.
  • Forward emails to a chat You can also schedule a recurring message in a channel.
  • You can also forward emails from Gmail to a Teams channel.

All you have to do is, select the template and create the flow based on what you want to do.

Join us for the webinar to learn more about Microsoft Teams. 

Microsoft Outlook

You can create flows with Outlook for different reasons. With Automate, you can save email attachments from Outlook to Dropbox, and OneDrive. Power Autoamate uses connectors to social media apps, you can email yourself tweets about a keyword.

Set up the flows to automate what you want. Automating these tasks will prevent manual work. Let’s say you want attachments you receive in Outlook to be duplicated in your Dropbox, you can select the flow template, create it and turn it on. This way, you don’t have to re-upload the attachments on Dropbox.

Create your first flow with Power Automate here with templates.

OneDrive for Business

OneDrive Power Automate

OneDrive integration with Power Automate has default templates to perform these actiions.

  • a.Convert Word files in OneDrive and stored in SharePoint.
  • b. Get notifications and emails when a new file is uploaded in OneDrive.
  • c. Sync OneDrive for Business files to Google Drive files.

SharePoint

With Power Automate integration with SharePoint, you can save email attachments from Outlook to SharePoint (triggers). In this scenario, Power Automate will connect Outlook, and SharePoint to get the action done.

Get started with SharePoint with Power Automate here.

Microsoft Forms

microsoft forms power automate integration with microsoft 365

One of the benefits of Power Automate is managing Microsoft Forms with surveys and feedback provided. You can set up a flow for form responses received to be recorded in a Google Sheet and SharePoint. You can also track Form responses in Excel and create a to-do list base don the responses.

The Microsoft Power Automate Community creates all of these templates. Users can edit it to suit their needs and automate tasks with ease.

How Power Automate integrates with Microsoft 365

Integrating Power Automate with Microsoft 365 opens up a world of possibilities for automating routine tasks and creating seamless connections between various applications. This section highlights how Power Automate integrates with different Microsoft 365 applications.

1. Automating Document Workflows

Power Automate Desktop can be utilized to automatically extract data from emails in Outlook and populate corresponding fields in Excel or other Microsoft 365 applications. This ensures accuracy and eliminates the need for manual data entry.

2. Enhancing Communication with Teams Integration

Integrating Power Automate with Microsoft Teams streamlines communication and collaboration processes. You can automate the creation of Teams meetings, send notifications, or update shared documents automatically. This integration fosters a collaborative environment and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

3. Excel Automation for Data Analysis

Power Automate Desktop can be used by data analysts to automate repetitive tasks on Microsoft Excel. Whether it’s importing, transforming, or visualizing data, this integration enables smoother data workflows.

4. Automating Email Workflows

You can automate email responses, categorize messages, or trigger specific actions based on the content of incoming emails. This not only saves time but also ensures timely and accurate communication.

5. Integrating OneDrive files and folders with Power Automate

Power Automate provides pre-built connectors and triggers for OneDrive, making it easy to set up integrations and automate tasks. This integration can streamline file management, enhance collaboration, and boost productivity.

Best practices for working with Microsoft 365 data in Power Automate

Here are some best practices for working with Microsoft 365 data on Power Automate.

1. Use consistent and descriptive naming conventions for flows, actions, and variables to make it easier for others to understand and maintain your work.

2. Implement proper error handling to manage exceptions and ensure the flow can handle unexpected situations gracefully.

3. Maintain thorough documentation for each flow, including its purpose, configuration, and any dependencies. This is essential for future maintenance and updates.

4. Design your flows to be scalable. As your organization grows, your flows should be able to handle increased loads without significant changes.

5. Test your flows thoroughly in a development environment before deploying them to production. This helps catch issues early on.

Conclusion

The integration of Power Automate Desktop and Microsoft 365 presents a powerful solution for businesses looking to optimize workflows. Organizations can focus on innovation and growth by automating routine tasks and streamlining communication.
Embrace the potential of these tools and propel your business into a new era of efficiency and productivity.

Evolve Connect is offering an extensive BootCamp on Microsoft 365. Register now!

Introduction to power automate

Introduction to Power Automate

by with 8 Comments Artificial IntelligencePower Automate

Introduction to power automate

Power Automate is an efficient Microsoft 365 application used to automate repetitive business processes. In addition to basic procedures, Power Automate can schedule the transfer of business data between systems, and automate tasks on a local computer, such as Excel data computation. This article dives into the benefits of Power AUtomate, creating flows and subscriptions. 

 

What is Power Automate?

Power Automate is a cloud-based service from Microsoft that allows users to create automated workflows between apps and services. It is part of the Microsoft Power Platform with Power Apps, Power BI, and Power Virtual Agents. 

Power Automate provides a graphical flow designer to link triggers with actions. For example, you can automatically send an email when a new file is added to OneDrive, and post a message in Teams when a form is submitted. These flows connect to hundreds of different apps and services through connectors.

Power Automate can be used on the web and as a desktop application. The desktop application is installed from the web.  

Learn more about Power Automate here.

 

What is Automated Workflow? 

Workflow automation is the execution of activities with software, eliminating human intervention. It serves as a tool that facilitates, accelerates, and ensures the consistency of work. It is about making processes more efficient, accurate, and reliable by leveraging technology. 

 

These are practical applications of automated workflows and processes.

Employee Onboarding: Automated workflows can be designed to handle tasks such as sending welcome emails, creating employee accounts, and scheduling orientation sessions.

 

Customer Service Follow-Up: Workflows streamline processes related to customer inquiries and requests. For instance, customers can receive automated follow-up emails to ensure timely responses.

 

Document Approval: Instead of manual paper approvals, workflow automation can route documents electronically for approval, reducing delays and improving efficiency. 

 

Data Entry and Validation: Automating data entry tasks ensures accuracy and consistency, especially when dealing with large volumes of information. For example, Microsoft Forms can be connected to Excel and SharePoint to handle data collected in a spreadsheet and file attachments in SharePoint.

 

Invoice Processing: Workflow automation can handle invoice approvals, payment reminders, and reconciliation.

IT Incident Management: Automated workflows can escalate and assign IT incidents, ensuring timely resolution.

 

Benefits of Power Automate

Power Automate provides several key benefits for automating workflows and processes:

  1. Saves Time and Effort on Repetitive Tasks

One of the biggest benefits of Power Automate is that it can automate repetitive, manual processes. This saves employees time from having to do the same tasks repeatedly. Any process that has defined inputs, outputs, and steps can potentially be automated. This allows employees to focus on their work. 

 

2. Integrates with Common Apps and Services  

Power Automate provides over 400 connectors to popular apps and services like SharePoint, Excel, Teams, OneDrive, Dynamics 365, Salesforce, and more. 

 

3. Visibility into Processes through Monitoring and Analytics

Power Automate offers monitoring, alerts, and analytics. This provides visibility into how workflows are running and performing. Having this insight helps optimize and improve workflows over time.

 

4. Low Code/No Code Automation

Power Automate is designed for developers and business users. It uses a low code/no code graphical interface to build flows without extensive coding. This enables automation to be put into the hands of end users rather than relying solely on professional developers. Workflows can be built rapidly through simple drag-and-drop and configuration.

 

Building Your First Flow

You can build your first flow from scratch or with existing templates. Here is a step-by-step guide to building your first flow in Power Automate. You 

  1. Sign in to Power Automate and click on “My flows”. Click on “+ New flow” button on the top right.

Power Automate New flow

  1. Choose a template for the flow or create a new flow from scratch.

Choose Power Automate template3. Select the specific template you want based on the task you want to automate. E.g. “Save Office 365 email attachments to specified OneDrive for Business folder”.

Power Automate Templates

4. This connects Office 365 Outlook and OneDrive for Business in the flow. It requires sign n. The purpose is for attachments received in emails in Outlook to go to the Onedrive Folder. 

Show Office 365 attachments connect5. Once sign-in is complete, the flow shows the conditions. Copilot is enabled in Power Automate to change the flow or add actions. Save the flow and do a test by sending email to the inbox with attachments.

Power Automate Flows Office 365 attachments

6. Turn on the flow by flipping the toggle switch. The flow will now run automatically whenever the trigger conditions are met. 

 

Testing and troubleshooting flows

These tips will help you build robust and error-free automation flows with Power Automate. The key is to start simple and add complexity while continuously testing.

 

– Check the flow runs history to see if the flow executed successfully. You can check errors and retry failed runs.

– Turn on debugging mode to step through the flow run and inspect what happened at each step.

– Research errors in the Microsoft community to get insights and answers. 

– Clone flows when testing modifications rather than editing the original flow.

– Leverage Power Automate monitoring capabilities to set up alerts, monitor usage quotas, and analyze telemetry.

 

 Power Automate Limits and Licensing. 

Power Automate offers three licensing plans with different limits

– Free plan – This plan has significant restrictions like only being able to run flows manually and having a maximum of 5 flows. It allows 200 runs per month, 3 actions per flow, and standard connectors.

– Office 365 plan – This plan is included with certain Office 365 licenses and allows unlimited flows and runs per month. Flows can have up to 75 actions. Premium and standard connectors are available based on the specific O365 license.

– Standalone plan – The paid plans allow unlimited flows, runs per month, and actions per flow. All standard and premium connectors are available. 

 

See more information on Power Automate Licensing Subscription here.

 

Conclusion

Power Automate is a powerful tool for businesses to automate business processes. It reduces manual effort with applications and helps to increase productivity. 

 

Catch up on Evolve Connect’s latest podcast. 

 

Top 10 tips for using Microsoft Sharepoint effectively

Top 10 Tips for Using Microsoft SharePoint Effectively

by with No Comment Microsoft 365SharePoint

Top 10 tips for using Microsoft Sharepoint effectively

Microsoft SharePoint is a secure collaboration software designed to help organizations store, share, and access information. It is a virtual workspace for communication, teamwork, and accountability. SharePoint is accessible on the web across Windows, Mac, Android and Mobile devices.

 

What is Microsoft SharePoint used for in the workplace?

Organizations use Microsoft SharePoint to create intranet websites that securely manage and share data across departments and remote teams.

What’s the idea behind Intranet Websites?

An intranet is an internal network used within an organization to share company information and computing resources among employees securely. Intranets encourage communication within an organization. An example is a website that a company uses to deliver updates and information to its workforce. Microsoft SharePoint helps organizations build home pages and portals with no knowledge of coding.

 

Is SharePoint part of Microsoft 365?

SharePoint is a part of the Microsoft 365 Suite. Changes made in any M365 applications syncs for all team members. Organizations using Microsoft 365 applications understand that SharePoint is necessary for collaboration and versioning purposes.

Learn how to install Microsoft 365 Apps.

What can you do with SharePoint?

These and lots more are things you can do with SharePoint.

  • a. Set up an intranet site for your team and customize it with zero knowledge of coding
  • b. Create a document repository so that you can upload files for easy access to everyone on your team.
    c. Create sites with built-in templates for training course, onboarding new employees, and designs.
  • d. Create lists like marketing ideas for everyone to contribute to.
  • e. Publish new posts for everyone to stay informed.

Types of SharePoint Sites

We have two major types of SharePoint sites.

  • a. Team Site.

You can use this when you want to create a place where the members of your project team can collaborate on project deliverables, plan an event, track status, or exchange ideas.

  • b. Communication Site.

You can use this to broadcast a message, tell a story, share content for viewing only, to a large audience or the entire organization, or showcase services or people.

 

Best Practices for using Microsoft SharePoint 

To use SharePoint effectively, here are the best practices you must have on your fingertip.

1. Understand the pain points of users

It is important to know the pain points of employees since the site is designed for them. The site should be built based on their needs. Their satisfaction is important for effective collaboration in the workplace. You can achieve this through usability testing, or interviews with the employees.

2. Use Brand Colors across pages

The SharePoint site is accessible to the staff of the organization. The site should follow the web style guide to reflect the company’s brand.

2. Personalize Page Banner

The page banner should be personalized to the users, such that there is a welcome greeting with their names. This helps many employees feel like the content has been made for them. This sense of personalization is important for onboarding, learning and Development areas of the site.

 

3. Enable Version History in the Document Library

Version history is a useful feature of document libraries. This allows you to return to previous versions of a document if something goes wrong and keep track of changes made to a document since it was last saved.

4. Switch to Folder View

There are other views on SharePoint for lists or folders. However, folder view is more user-friendly as it displays each folder as its own separate list. This way, you can easily browse through your files.

 

5. Provide easy navigation
Name documents correctly, and add description for files. This is essential for easy navigation of the sites for users.

6. Sync Libraries to OneDrive
Use OneDrive sync to keep local copies of SharePoint libraries on your computer. It allows offline access and seamless synchronization.

7. Get notifications for edited documents

Alerts are great ways to stay informed about changes on SharePoint. You can receive notifications in email or Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds when documents, lists, libraries, or entire sites are modified or added. Configure your site to send these notifications.

 

To enable RSS feeds for a SharePoint site, follow these steps.
a. Navigate to the Site Settings of your SharePoint site.

b. Under the Site Administration section, click on RSS.

Microsoft Sharepoint site administration RSS

c. Check the box to enable RSS feeds for the site. Optionally, specify the number of items to display in the RSS feed

RSS Sharepoint settings

8. Keep file names consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to SharePoint files. This helps you and your team easily find the files that you’re looking for and build a strong foundation for team collaboration.

9. Permission and access inheritance

Permission and access inheritance is a great feature on SharePoint. It allows you to inherit permissions from parent objects, making it easy to grant access to specific files or folders. To control who has access to information, use the permission settings in your site.

10. Present long contents in collapsible sections

Make pages with content easier to read by breaking up the text into collapsible sections.

 

How to Access Microsoft SharePoint

You can access SharePoint using your work or school Microsoft 365 account with a subscription.

a. Sign in to Microsoft 365.

b. Select SharePoint or Sites in the app launcher navigation or top bar.

Microsoft SharePoint sign in
c. Select the sites in the app launcher.

Conclusion

SharePoint is a powerful product that enhances communication and collaboration in organizations. These tips are useful for using SharePoint with ease.

 

Microsoft Teams doesn't load

Microsoft Teams Doesn’t Load

by with 2 Comments Microsoft 365

Microsoft Teams doesn't load

Microsoft Teams users may experience difficulties while using the application. These difficulties are caused by a list of unlikely malfunctions which include, Teams not loading, and files not opening among others.
Just like every other problem, these malfunctions have solutions to avoid disruption of the user’s activities. This article places focus on the error ‘Teams doesn’t load’. It is possible causes and solutions.

 

Causes of the error “Microsoft Teams doesn’t load”

Microsoft Teams may not load when you try to load it using a web browser such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Safari. You can also encounter issues when you try to access it on the web using applications like Outlook.

For the web browsers, this is because Microsoft Teams URLs is not added to the list of ‘Trusted Sites’ feature in the browser. This makes the browser unable to load Microsoft Teams.

For the desktop applications, several issues like functionality of the PC, hardware requirements and internet connection could impact Teams. When Teams doesn’t load, it can be stuck on “We are sorry, we’ve run into an issue”.

 

Possible solutions for the error “Teams doesn’t load”

To resolve common errors of Microsoft Teams not loading, there are numerous troubleshooting steps you can take.

1. Compatibility. Ensure that your computer is compatible with the system requirements for the Microsoft Teams application. In Teams for Windows, a minimum of 4GB RAM is required.

See more on hardware requirements for Mac, Windows and mobile devices.

2. Run as administrator. If you have administrative rights, run the Microsoft Teams application as an administrator. To do this, right-click on the Teams app icon and choose the “Run as administrator” option.

3. Clear Cache. Another way to resolve the “Teams doesn’t load” error is to clear the Teams cache. You can clear the cache on both Windows and Mac.

  • a.Close the Teams app
  • b. Go to the application folder: %appdata%\Microsoft\Teams.
  • c. Delete all the files and folders in this folder except for the “Downloads” folder.

 

4. Check Anti-virus or Firewall Settings. You can also disable any third-party antivirus or firewall software temporarily and try starting the Microsoft Teams application again.

5. Reinstall Teams. You can also uninstall the new Microsoft Teams application and install the previous version of Teams.

6. Restart your PC. The functionality of a PC sometimes affects desktop applications in general. Restart your PC to start the Teams application.

7. Add Teams to the list of Trusted sites in the web browser. In the Edge Settings window, select Cookies and Site permissions > Cookies and data stored > Manage and delete cookies and site data. Also, Allow sites to save and read cookie data (recommended) and disable Block third-party cookies. If necessary, block third-party cookies in the same window.
Select Add under Allow to add these sites:

  • a. microsoft.com
  • b.microsoft.com
  • c. microsoftonline.com
  • d. teams.skype.com
  • e. teams.microsoft.com

 

8. Update Microsoft 365 Applications. There are scenarios where there is a need for updates. Ensure you’re using the up-to-date Microsoft 365 applications with Teams.

9. Check the Account Settings. The account used to sign in to Microsoft Teams can have issues and prevent sign-in. Ensure you can sign in to the web and other office desktop applications. If you can’t sign in to desktop apps, reinstall Office. Also, check your subscription.

10. Check your internet connection. Running teams on the web and updating information on desktop applications require an internet connection. Ensure your PC is connected to the internet without any disruption.

 

Conclusion

Microsoft Teams-related issues can be resolved in diverse ways. The problems that arise while working on Teams can be resolved with the steps above. If it’s a work or organizational account with restrictions, contact your IT admin.

Evolve Connect is offering an extensive bootcamp with training on Microsoft 365 applications. Gain mastery and experience to use these applications for diverse companies in different industries. Register now to secure your spot.

 

How to Fix Microsoft Outlook Issues

How to Fix Microsoft Outlook Issues

by with 2 Comments Exchange OnlineMicrosoft 365

How to Fix Microsoft Outlook Issues

Common Microsoft Outlook issues can be resolved with known solutions. The article highlights common issues with detailed solutions to fix the problems.

Common Microsoft Outlook Issues

1. Search Button Malfunctions

The search bar and button can return incomplete information or sometimes no result during a search. This error occurs due to:
• Corrupted search index
• Damaged Outlook profile
• Corrupt Outlook Data file (PST)

Possible Solutions
To fix the problems associated with the search index, you can:

A. Rebuild the search index:  To rebuild the search index, follow these steps;
• Open Microsoft Outlook,
• Go to ‘File’, then click on ‘Options’ and select ‘Search’.
• Click on ‘Indexing options’, then ‘advanced’.
• Provide your admin access and click the ’delete and rebuild index’ button.
• Restart your computer after the process is completed and try using the search bar in Outlook.

2. File Access Denied

The critical error associated with denied file access means you don’t have permission to open the file. This issue is caused by underlying problems with the Outlook data file (PST) such as corrupted files or unsupported format.

Possible Solutions
To fix this error
A. Rebuild the Outlook Data File (PST): To rebuild the Outlook data file;
• Exit outlook
• Locate the ‘SCANST.exe.’ file in the Outlook installation folder
• Launch the file by clicking the browse button and select ‘Start’ to start the scan process.

B. Contact your admin to confirm that you have permission to the file.

3. Outlook Calendar not Syncing

Creating and managing meetings can be difficult when calendars don’t sync. This error occurs when there is:
• An issue with synchronization settings
• A conflict with other applications

Possible Solutions
Calendar Synchronization issues can be tackled using the following methods:
A. Change of date and time in Microsoft Outlook can lead to synchronization problems. You can solve this by checking the date and time of your computer and ensuring you are in sync with the mailbox server. Right-click on the time and date at the bottom right and select ‘Adjust time/date’
B. You can also check your Outlook calendar synchronization settings to ensure the issue is resolved.
C. When all other methods prove abortive, you can remove the previous calendar and create a new calendar.

D. Use Microsoft’s Calendar Checking Tool for Outlook (CalCheck) to troubleshoot Outlook.

 

4. Emails stuck in Outbox

Emails stuck in the outbox’ can be a result of synchronization problems and other related problems. This error arises from these issues.
• Error in Outlook profile
• Corruption of Outlook data files (PST)
• Network connection problem
• Issues with email account settings

Possible Solutions
To solve the issue of emails stuck in outbox, you can:
A. Contact your admin to check the mail flow. This can be done by using the Message Trace on the Exchange Admin Center to see why emails are not delivered.
B. Check your network connection and ensure that your connection is intact. A poor network connection causes emails to be stuck in the outbox.

C. Use Outlook on the web and mobile to send emails to isolate if the issue is related to Outlook Desktop. If it is Outlook desktop, restart it, create a new profile, and ensure the PST file is not corrupted.

See more information with Fixes and workaround with Outlook.

5. Inaccessible attachments

When attachments are inaccessible, more often than not, there are some underlying causes.
• Attached file type
• Security software settings
• File format not supported

Possible Solutions
When experiencing difficulty with accessing attachments in Outlook, you can troubleshoot with these steps.

  • Update your Microsoft Outlook Version and ensure it is well and running.
  • Rectify your ‘attachment handling settings’. Get more information from Microsoft Support.
  • Check your anti-virus to ensure it doesn’t block certain file types.
  • Review Outlook rules and Exchange rules to confirm there are no restrictions to certain file types like .exe.

6. Dysfunctional Microsoft Outlook rules.

Microsoft Outlook rules help users manage outgoing and incoming mail effectively. However, these rules are dysfunctional sometimes.

Possible Solutions

Delete corrupted rules: To resolve the issue of dysfunctional rules in Outlook, this can be done by deleting the corrupted rules using the MFCMAPI tool.

NOTE: Use MFCMAPI with caution. Changes made with MFCMAPI Can greatly affect Outlook.

Using the MFCMAPI tool, you can delete corrupted files through the following steps.

  • a.Download the latest version of MFCMAPI tool
  • b. Start the tool and select options under ‘Tools’
  • c. Select ‘Force the use of Outlook’s MAPI file’ and click ‘OK’.
  • d. On the session menu, select Log on. Select ‘OK’ to load the public folder store once you receive an error message
  • e. Click on ‘Root Container’ then ‘IPM_Subtree’. Right-click the related public folder and select ‘Open associated contents table’
  • f. Sort the contents of the table by message class by selecting ‘Message Class Column fkHeader’.
  • g. Select the messages that display ‘IPM.Rule.Version2’ and check the properties of each one.
  • h. Corrupted files will display ‘cb: 0’ in the Value column for the PR_EXTENDED_RULE_MSG_CONDITION and PR_EXTENDED_RULE_MSG_ACTIONS properties.
  • i. In the Tag Column these properties will display 0x0E9A000A and PT_ERROR in the Type column respectively.

 

Conclusion

Resolving issues with Microsoft Outlook is essential for an administrator.

Evolve Connect has a team of experts for training and empowerment in Microsoft 365 and Azure. Register for Evolve Connect’s training to become a Microsoft 365 Expert and Administrator. Opportunities are waiting for you!