MVP Insights: Kim Dallefeld Discusses BC Expertise, Becoming an MVP, New Summit Speakers
Welcome to “MVP Insights,” a podcast that explores the universe, ideas, and opportunities of the brightest stars in the Microsoft business applications ecosystem.
In this episode, John Siefert welcomes Kim Dallefeld, CEO/Senior BC Consultant, Dallefeld Consulting LLC and Microsoft MVP. The two discuss Kim’s journey to becoming an MVP, her expertise with the system, challenging projects and her learnings from them, and Community Summit NA 2024.
This episode is sponsored by Community Summit North America, the largest independent gathering of the Microsoft Business Applications ecosystem, taking place Oct. 13-17, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Register today to connect with thousands of users across the Microsoft business applications ecosystem at the for user, by user event.
Key Takeaways:
- Kim’s MVP journey: Kim was early to join the BC/NAV User Group, joining as a programming committee chair in 2003. Her journey “evolved from there,” and she began speaking at events. Fellow community member Shannon Mullins encouraged Kim to obtain her MVP status and helped her set up a blog which prompted her to share her knowledge with the rest of the community.
- Evolution of Business Central: Adapting to interface changes from AVISTA to NAV, and then to the Business Central interface, has been challenging but ultimately rewarding, as it offers a more cloud-ready experience. Microsoft’s use of telemetry to optimize menu options for fewer clicks and encourage keyboard use over the mouse has greatly enhanced user efficiency. Beyond product interface, the transition from physical manuals to integrated, accessible help resources within BC, including videos and Microsoft’s YouTube channel, has greatly enhanced the availability of information and user support.
- Emerging trends: In the context of Business Central and other Microsoft Business Applications, embracing new technologies and features such as AP automation, document automation, and AI for bank reconciliations is a significant trend, enabling users to work smarter by leveraging the capabilities already present in their products. Utilizing AI to enhance efficiency and continue the trend of automation in various areas, reflects a shift from the past emphasis on EDI, for example.
- Overcoming project challenges: Kim discusses a highly technical and challenging project she worked on and reflects on her learnings since. The shift from heavy customization to a more standardized approach reflects a broader trend towards smarter work practices, with a focus on utilizing built-in features and AI to improve efficiency and reduce the need for extensive customizations.
- Community Summit NA 2024: Kim, who is co-chair of the BC/NAV programming committee with Steve Chinsky, notes that this year, there are 95 unique speakers. Kim is particularly excited about the “breadth and depth of the speaking community this time.” She also discusses her excitement about the networking opportunities, visiting the expo floor, and Microsoft’s presence. Check out the sessions that Kim will be leading at Community Summit North America 2024, happening October 13-17 in San Antonio, Texas.
Stream the audio version of this episode here:
