Episode 007: Lisa Foster - Training the next generation of Power Platformers

Power Platform 101

Summary
In this episode of the Power Platform 101 podcast, host Rory Neary is joined by guest Lisa Foster, Managing Director of Blackbird Corporate, a Microsoft Training Organisation. They discuss the evolution of SharePoint and the Power Platform, the importance of training and consulting, and the transition from InfoPath to Power Apps. They explore the challenges and benefits of on-premises versus cloud solutions, the significance of user stories in development, and the integration of third-party tools like DocuSign. Lisa shares her journey in the industry, her achievements, and her passion for motorcycle racing, while also touching on the evolving terminology around citizen developers and Power Platform makers.
Takeaways
The podcast is rebranded to Power Platform 101 for better discoverability.
Lisa Foster has a long history with SharePoint and Power Platform, evolving her business over 16 years.
SharePoint's offline capabilities are crucial for certain sectors like military and government.
Transitioning from InfoPath to Power Apps is a significant change for many organizations.
On-premises solutions have their own set of challenges compared to cloud solutions.
Training in Power Platform is a major focus, with 70% of training related to it.
Understanding the differences between Canvas apps and Model-driven apps is essential for users.
Power Automate can significantly enhance workflows for clients, but many are unaware of its full capabilities.
Integrating tools like DocuSign can streamline processes for clients.
Consulting and training together provide a unique value proposition for clients.
The term 'citizen developer' is evolving, with 'Power Platform maker' being a more suitable term.
User stories are vital for guiding development in Power Platform projects.
Power BI reporting can be complex, especially with large datasets.
Power BI Premium offers enhanced features for data refresh rates.
Old features like SharePoint alerts are being phased out, requiring new workflows in Power Automate.
New features like Copilot in Power Platform are exciting but require additional licensing.
Learning from others in the industry can provide valuable insights and improvements.
Achievements in both business and personal interests, like motorcycle racing, are sources of pride.
Chapters
00:00 Podcast Introduction and Rebranding
02:21 Lisa Foster's Journey into Power Platform
04:19 Evolution of SharePoint and Power Platform
05:49 Offline Capabilities and Security in SharePoint
08:19 Transition from InfoPath to Power Apps
11:04 On-Premises vs Cloud Solutions
12:41 Training Focus on Power Platform
14:22 Understanding Canvas Apps vs Model-Driven Apps
17:01 Power Automate and Client Use Cases
18:42 Integrating Third-Party Tools like DocuSign
20:58 Consulting and Training Synergy
23:33 Citizen Developers vs Power Platform Makers
27:06 Power Platform Training and User Stories
28:34 Power BI Reporting Challenges
30:38 Power BI Premium Features
33:10 Power Platform Integration Discussion
36:30 Old Features: SharePoint Alerts
39:24 New Features: Copilot in Power Platform
42:42 Borrowing Best Practices from Others
47:14 Proud Achievements in Business and Racing
51:24 Music Preferences and Personal Insights