Continuing education is important in any field, and technology is no exception. It’s tempting to onboard software and just use it the way you know how from day one, but investing a little time into learning from other users can make a world of difference in the way you maximize your solution. This is especially true when it comes to Microsoft solutions that have a wide range of capabilities, functionalities, and features.
User groups for Microsoft products such as Dynamics Communities (home of the Community Summit conference and D365UG BC|NAV – formerly NAVUG) and the Dynamics User Group (DUG, home of the DynamicsCon Live and Virtual conferences) offer valuable ways you can learn from other business users about how to improve your use of all things Microsoft. They are online forums where users share their expertise, and in them you’ll find:
- Insight into different ways to use certain tools
- Hacks and tips
- Answers to questions
Here are some of the major reasons to consider joining one of these communities.
Access expert advice in discussion forums
Discussion forums allow you to see multiple users’ experiences and guidance on how to use certain tools. You can see how users troubleshoot issues they’re having with certain solutions and exchange ideas on how to do things better.
Connect with and follow community members
These groups allow you to follow people for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you find one user’s advice particularly useful, or another may use your same solutions and share your same questions. You can connect with individuals to further exchange knowledge beyond the discussion forum.
Access recorded educational content, published resources, and events
Community groups will post helpful blogs, articles, and other resources that share how-to information, tips, do’s-and-don’ts, and updates on Microsoft technology. You’ll get access to live events such as webinars, and you’ll get the opportunity to join in-person events as well. Many of these events feature seasoned experts to answer your questions. You can also join local user groups to connect with those in your physical radius.
Participating in events can be a launching pad for opportunities for you to become a Microsoft MVP (Most Valuable Professional). MVPs are “recognized technology experts and community leaders who support technical communities through unique, innovative, and consistent knowledge sharing,” according to Microsoft. This program can help you build your personal brand as a technology thought leader in addition to boosting your brand.
Share your own experiences
Sharing your own experiences on these forums can not only help elicit advice from the communities, but also help others improve their experiences as well. User groups are a neutral place to connect on a more human level for support with your tools. You can even discover third-party solutions you can use to improve your solutions.
Join virtual training sessions
Some user groups will offer virtual training so you can stay up-to-date on how best to leverage your technology and adapt to upgrades.
Reduce Complexity and Improve ROI from Your Microsoft Solutions Today
Joining a user group can help you remove hurdles, bottlenecks, and points of confusion from your technology adoption. Whether you’re new to Microsoft or just trying to optimize your use of your solutions, online communities are treasure troves of peer-based knowledge. If you have questions about which community might be right for you, get in touch with DSWi today.
