Integrating Technology and Business with Microsoft
In today’s business world, acquiring practical skills has become a fundamental component of professional success. It is no longer just about understanding the latest technologies, such as data analysis with Power BI or artificial intelligence, but about knowing how to apply them effectively in constantly evolving business environments like the one we operate in today.
This article aims to explain the benefits of using Microsoft Applied Skills as the foundation for experiential learning in the day-to-day work of all employees across the organization (not only IT professionals), and how these skills can be used in events such as hackathons and datathons, applying them effectively to solve specific problems and achieve concrete goals.
What Are Microsoft Applied Skills?
Microsoft Applied Skills is a knowledge and skills-based offering designed to help professionals develop applied capabilities in both technology and business.
At Netmind, we use Applied Skills within experiential training journeys that help professionals understand the power of tools such as PowerBI, artificial intelligence, and GitHub Copilot, among others.
What is new, and one of the main attractions of this concept, is that Microsoft Applied Skills credentials are oriented toward acquiring and subsequently demonstrating competencies that project professionals into a future we know will not be limited to a single, clearly defined role, but will instead pivot across different scenarios and challenges.
This set of competencies is therefore aimed at professionals who have already been introduced to the foundational technical concepts of the Microsoft ecosystem and want to continue developing their skills to respond to real business challenges in specific scenarios.
It is about demonstrating the ability to handle a migration to SQL database environments running on Azure, or proving the capability to secure a critical system. Beyond certification in a specific product or role, which, as currently defined, often includes several of these capabilities, an Applied Skill indicates that a professional can solve a challenge in a given scenario.
Versatility as a Key Concept We promote Applied Skills as a way to address specific challenges, acquire a competency that a professional needs at a particular moment, and take advantage of that momentum, or additional motivation.
And of course, the organizational robustness that comes from having a clear skills map associated with these credentials should also be taken into account. When forming a new project team or creating a task force, wouldn’t it be ideal to know exactly what concrete skills each individual brings? Wouldn’t it be far more effective not to rely solely on roles that only partially match our needs, and instead select people based on the specific competencies that best fit?
This comprehensive, hands-on learning experience enables participants to acquire technical knowledge and apply it in real-world situations.
The Importance of Technology and Business Integration
In today’s business environment, integrating technology and business has become a critical success factor. Professionals who are able to combine these two dimensions gain a significant competitive advantage in the job market. In the learning journeys where we use Applied Skills, we equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to effectively integrate technology and business in their professional roles, and to become data-driven decision-makers. This holistic perspective enables organizations to drive innovation and make informed decisions.
Distributing these competencies across the entire organization is one of the key levers that helps companies foster innovation. If you want to explore this topic further, we recommend reading this article (link to Iván’s Citizen Development article).
It is essential to understand that distributing knowledge and skills transversally not only upskills the organization as a whole, but also sparks the willingness and motivation to put learning into practice, driving the journey toward excellence.
Responsible Artificial Intelligence and Copilot
Microsoft’s Applied Skills program emphasizes the importance of responsible artificial intelligence.
The adoption of AI ownership is essential. Ensuring that professionals in technical and business fields develop AI systems that adhere to ethical principles guarantees transparent, fair, and secure technology. This not only strengthens the trust of clients and users, but also drives sustainable innovation and contributes to creating a positive impact on society. Ethical responsibility in artificial intelligence is not only necessary, but also beneficial for the business growth and reputation, and when properly leveraged, it can become a competitive advantage.
Integrating GitHub Copilot into the Applied Skills curriculum enables professionals to benefit from AI-powered assistance in code development. Copilot, a powerful AI tool, not only enables faster and more efficient coding, but also exposes learners to a new generation of AI-assisted tools.
With skills come knowledge and capability, and the power this provides must also be accompanied by an ethical perspective.
Collaborative Events as the Ideal Complement
Applied Skills–based learning journeys are a perfect match for participation in collaborative events such as hackathons and datathons. These events give participants the opportunity to put their skills into practice in a collaborative and competitive environment, while fostering innovation and creativity by tackling real-world challenges.
Conclusion
Netmind plays a crucial role as an experienced Microsoft Partner, guiding professionals throughout their learning journey. Our Netmind team provides expert mentoring, ensuring that professionals can effectively apply what they have learned to real-world challenges.. With our deep industry knowledge and experience, we contribute to shaping the next generation of highly skilled professionals.
