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Research Firm SourcingLine Publishes Shortlist of Top Microsoft Dynamics ERP Consultants

slooby9 Dynamics GP, Uncategorized , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The research highlights the most capable Microsoft Dynamics ERP consultants catering to the mid-market.

 

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2013 — Today SourcingLine published the first edition of their Microsoft Dynamics ERP Consultants Leaders Matrix. The Leaders Matrix analyzes each firm’s focus in Microsoft Dynamics against their ability to deliver ERP solutions to their clients. This publication follows SourcingLine’s existing research on enterprise based web and mobile developers, which has been called the most comprehensive available online.

 

The Microsoft Dynamics ERP Consultants Leaders Matrix focuses on firms that are able to apply Microsoft Dynamics GP, AX, and NAV to improve the operational efficiency of organizations within a wide range of industries. The top consultants were selected based on over a dozen quantitative and qualitative factors including company experience, breadth of knowledge, client references, Microsoft Certifications, industry recognition, and marketing presence.

 

Out of the hundreds of firms that are Certified Microsoft Dynamics ERP Partners, only 6 firms were selected for the Leaders Matrix. The firms included are: BroadPoint Technologies, Technology Management Concepts, ACE Microtechnology, Zensar Technologies, IndustryBuilt Software, and Turnkey Technologies.

 

“For a company to be competitive, they must be able to capture and organize data from across departments to create actionable knowledge in real-time,” stated Sam Pettee, Senior Analyst at SourcingLine. “The consultants included in our Leaders Matrix consistently apply ERP solutions to help complex organizations remain competitive.”

 

SourcingLine has also published a comprehensive directory of Microsoft Dynamics ERP consultants including additional firms that were not included in the Leaders Matrix.

 

SourcingLine’s effort to identify the top Microsoft Dynamics ERP consultants will be ongoing and they encourage firms with a proven record to apply to participate in updates to their research.

 

About SourcingLine

 

SourcingLine is a Washington, DC-based research firm focused on IT services. We provide independent, quantitative analysis on leading services firms to support procurement decisions in small, medium and large enterprises. We publish the top-ranked analysis of Global Outsourcing Locations and Mobile Application Developers among others. Our research leverages a proprietary framework, the Leaders Matrix, which maps firm’s focus areas and their ability to deliver on client expectations.

 

Contact

 

Sam Pettee

202-568-6478

spettee@sourcingline.com

http://www.sourcingline.com

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Convergence Schedule Recommendations – Dynamics GP Accounting Professional Track

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Convergence Schedule Recommendations – Dynamics GP Accounting Track

March 18-21, 2013 | New Orleans, LA

 

About Convergence

 

As the premier event for the Microsoft Dynamics Customer and Partner business community, Convergence is where opportunity and innovation meet to deliver real business value. It’s the chance to make key business connections and to discover the full potential of Microsoft Dynamics solutions.

 

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience

 

The Expo Experience puts the global Microsoft Dynamics community front and center as our valued partners from around the world bring their technology innovations to you. The Microsoft Solutions Experience runs through the middle of the Experience Center and is your place to go for Technical Support, Product Demos, and the AXUG, CRMUG, GPUG, and NAVUG User Groups.

 

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience Hours:             Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 -12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

 

Community Experience

 

See the community come alive as this gathering space–on Level 1 of the NOMCC—offers you opportunities for networking, sharing and relaxation.

 

Community Experience Hours:                                                            Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

 

Convergence Café

 

Stop by the new lounge area, similar to your favorite neighborhood hangout. You’ll find tables and couches where you can meet-up with others, access Wi-Fi, recharge your devices, and enjoy fun refreshments from some of our Microsoft Dynamics customers.

 

 

 

Monday, March 18

 

11:00 AM – Registration Opens

Onsite registration will be located in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOMCC), NO, LA.

11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Financial Report Writing Options for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 353-355

You have several options for financial report writing in Microsoft Dynamics GP. This session is designed to help you evaluate and uncover your preferred reporting tool. You’ll hear selection process best practices from industry experts. There will be an overview and comparison of several reporting products that you may further review while at Convergence.  Presented by GPUG.  ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Sex, Lies & Refreshable Excel Reports, 343-345

Learn how to deploy, secure and use the refreshable Microsoft Excel reports in Microsoft Dynamics GP. We’ll cover the deployment, security model and security specifics of using Excel reports. The focus of this session is on the Excel reports available out of the box with Microsoft Dynamics GP; we will not cover Excel Report Builder. Hosted by GPUG. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Finance Module Best Practices for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 356-357

Join this session, hosted by GPUG, and learn best practices for batch controls/approvals, batch naming conventions, SmartList batch query, budget imports/exports, copying journal entries, recurring batches, expense deferrals, eliminating inactive accounts and much more.  For more information about the independent GPUG, visit http://www.GPUG.com. ***This session is not repeated.

1:30 PM – 2:30 – Year End Closing Process for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 352

Dig into the important steps required to close out your fiscal year in Microsoft Dynamics GP. In this GPUG hosted session, you’ll pick up valuable time saving tips and orderly tasks so that you can hammer through this annual journey easily, efficiently and without missing a step.  For more information about the independent GPUG, visit http://www.GPUG.com. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Excel Report Builder: How2, 343-345

In this GPUG-hosted session, we’ll dig into Excel Report Builder and build reports from scratch –                                     step by step. Discover how to use sexy formatting in Microsoft Excel without breaking your data                                        connections to deliver everything SmartList Builder does but without a GP license. ***This session is

not repeated.

OR

–        What to Know Before the Auditors Ask:  Risk Management & Controls in Microsoft Dynamics GP, 350-351

Don’t be caught off guard when your auditors show up and start asking questions you can’t answer. Join audit and compliance experts in this GPUG hosted session to learn how taking a risk-based approach to controls monitoring will significantly reduce system risks, fraud risks, operating costs and audit prep time. Walk away with tips, tricks and a roadmap for implementing best practice controls in your organization. For more information about the independent GPUG, visit www.GPUG.com. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Using SharePoint to Extend Dynamics GP Functionality, 340-341

Looking for ways to leverage Microsoft SharePoint for intranet and document management needs? We’ll share different ways we can extend Microsoft Dynamics GP functionality using SharePoint, as well as how we can take advantage of SharePoint workflows to automate business processes, incorporate document management solutions into Microsoft Dynamics GP, and how we can grant end users read-only access to information. Hosted by GPUG. ***This session is not repeated.

 

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM – Roles, Hall C, CEC

This informal networking session offers you the opportunity to gather together with others in the                                            Microsoft Dynamics GP community that serve similar roles in your day-to-day work life, including:                                       Accountants; A/P Professionals; A/R Professionals; Budget Managers; Business Analysts;                                                          CFO/Controllers; Customer Service/Order Entry; Developers; Human Resources; Internal Auditors; IT                                  Professionals; Operations/Inventory Managers; Owners/Principles; Payroll; Project Managers;                                   Purchasing; and System Administrators.

4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – Geographies, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together regionally with others in the Microsoft                                    Dynamics GP community to share experiences and swap ideas. You’ll be able to easily connect with                                 folks from your region, whether in the United States, Canada, or internationally. Hosted by GPUG

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM – Hot Topics, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together with others in the community with                                        similar interests to connect, share experiences and swap ideas. Topics will include: budgeting;                                         business intelligence; collections management; disaster recovery; document                                                           management/workflow; E-commerce; GP in the cloud; inventory management; manufacturing;                                  multi-company installations; project management; recent implementations; sales & tax                                                       management; security; tools & integration; transitioning from FRx; and upgrading.

6:00 – 9:00pm – Convergence Experience Reception

                             Join us as we kick-off Convergence 2013! This year we are starting things off in the hub of it all –                                          the Convergence Experience Center. This is your opportunity to get familiar with the amazing                               resources and activities in this area that are available to you all week – from the hottest solutions                                        and offerings from our partners from around the globe, to the multiple opportunities to network                                        with your peers. And no reception would be complete without food and beverages, a little music                                  and entertainment, and other fun activities that await – all with some great New Orleans flavor                                           kicked in!

9:30 PM – Convergence Carnival – Republic New Orleans – 828 South Peters Street

 

Tuesday, March 19

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Opening Keynote

The Opening Keynote is our time for the community to come together as the course is set                                               for both the future of Microsoft Dynamics and your time at Convergence 2013. Join Kirill                                                  Tatarinov, President of Microsoft Business Solutions Division, Microsoft Corporation, as the                                stories unfold and the vision is revealed for A World Ahead.

11:00 AM– 12:00 PM – Getting Inspired with Microsoft Dynamics GP, Hall IJ

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 is here! Come and see the product in action, experience the innovative new Web Client, rich interoperability with other Microsoft technologies, and some of the 125 feature and capability enhancements that make this such a historic release. Hear from early adopter customers who are benefiting from the solution right now, and find out where we are taking the solution in the future. Get excited, get ready, and prepare to be inspired with Microsoft Dynamics GP.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Your New Office – Social Productivity at Work, Theater ABC

Join Jared Spataro, Senior Director – Microsoft Office Division, for an overview of the new Office and Microsoft’s vision for enterprise social. Learn how Office is putting the cloud, social, and mobile to work to help you compete and win in an increasingly fast-paced world.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – 50 Tips in 50 Minutes for Microsoft Dynamics GP: The Next Generation, 271-273

Want more tips for Microsoft Dynamics GP? Come to this session for a new and refreshed 50 tips in 50 minutes. This session will cover existing functionality as well as what’s new in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 in a fast-paced format that will give you tips on getting more out of your solution.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP Collections Management, 278-280

If you are using Collections Management, come to this session to see what features are being added to Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 and what is planned for the future. This session is intended for people already using or planning to use Collections Management for Microsoft Dynamics GP.

OR

–        What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013:  System, 266-268

Many new features in Microsoft Dynamics GP span the entire system, giving value to all Microsoft Dynamics GP users. We’ll dissect the new features that all Microsoft Dynamics GP users will enjoy.  A few of those features include email functionality, deployment changes, printer options and much more.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft SharePoint: Overview, 278-280

Microsoft Dynamics GP has key integration points with Microsoft SharePoint. Join us as we review the integration options available today, as well as explore how to extend the integrations farther and add more functionality that can ultimately change the way you do business. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Better Reporting with Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013, 271-273

Overwhelmed by the number of reporting options available or just feel like you are not taking full advantage of the tools you use?  This session will provide an overview of the reporting tools available for Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 as well as showcase how to make the most of the reporting tools you use.

OR

–        What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013: Fixed Assets, 266-268

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 new features. In this session, we’ll shine a spotlight on Fixed Assets and you’ll soon see why you should consider taking advantage what Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has to offer. We’ve added over a dozen of your most requested Fixed Asset features such as historical reporting and multiple calendars. So if you are using Fixed Assets, this is a ‘must attend’ session.

OR

–        Using SmartList Builder Effectively with Microsoft Dynamics GP, 265

Let’s dig into the details of taking SmartList further with SmartList Builder (SLB), Microsoft SQL Views in SLB, standard lists, and SLB and Extender for Microsoft Dynamics GP.  See how everything works together, and investigate how to get the most out of Role-Based home pages. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM – ACE Partner Reception – Hilton Spirits Bar – 2 Poydras Street

 

Wednesday, March 20

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Ask the Experts: Financials for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 265

Are you an experienced power user of Financials in Microsoft Dynamics GP?  Come share your knowledge in this open and interactive format! With experts on hand to field the tough questions, this discussion will cover the core modules of General Ledger, Receivables, Payables and other Financials modules.  *Sponsored by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group *

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP: Email & Microsoft Word Templates, 266-268

Microsoft Dynamics GP has the ability to leverage Microsoft Word for crafting external documents and sending them out via email. This deep dive will cover all aspects of leveraging this functionality including how to deploy, how to setup, how to modify the templates, how to setup the email and how to create personality email bodies.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP Project Accounting for Advanced Users, 281-282

If you have strong working knowledge of Microsoft Dynamics GP Project Accounting, we invite you to join us as this deep dive is just for you.  We’ll explore advanced scenarios and troubleshooting tactics related to working with projects. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP Manufacturing for Advanced Users, 278-280

This deep dive is intended for users who are already competent in Microsoft Dynamics GP Manufacturing. During our session, we’ll drill into more advanced functionality in Manufacturing to give you a better understanding of how the product works, how you can leverage it better, and important best practices. ***This session is not repeated.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – 50 Tips in 50 Minutes for Microsoft Dynamics GP: The Next Generation, Theater C

Want more tips for Microsoft Dynamics GP? Come to this session for a new and refreshed 50 tips in 50 minutes. This session will cover existing functionality as well as what’s new in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 in a fast-paced format that will give you tips on getting more out of your solution.

OR

–        What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013: Distribution, 275-277

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 new features.  In this session we will cover the features in distribution, which includes Inventory, Sales Order, and Purchase Order, that were added in this latest release and why you should consider using them.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP Collections Management, 281-282

If you are using Collections Management, come to this session to see what features are being added to Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 and what is planned for the future. This session is intended for people already using or planning to use Collections Management for Microsoft Dynamics GP.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Reconciliation Best Practices in Microsoft Dynamics GP, 278-280

Are you confident in the process you take to reconcile the sub-ledgers to the General Ledger?  Gain even greater confidence as we talk about the best practices in reconciling with the reconcile process including Inventory, Bank Reconciliation, Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable.

OR

–        Building Dashboards with Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft Excel, 275-277

Dashboards are an effective way to get important information to people within the organization. Come to this session to learn how to build dashboards that are refreshable and can easily be created and maintained. This session will focus on leveraging Microsoft Excel with a connection to the Microsoft Dynamics GP database.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client For Smaller Companies, Theater C

Do you think you are too small to add a web client into your existing deployment? That may not necessarily be the case.  In this session we’ll focus on deploying and maintaining a web client geared towards smaller companies who do not have a large IT department. Attend this session to see what is possible with the web client and what is realistic for your company.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013:  Financials, 278-280

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 new features.  Join us as we review the hot new features in financials–including General Ledger, Accounts Payables, Accounts Receivable and Fixed Assets–that were added in our new release and why you should consider leveraging them.

OR

–        Take Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft Office to the Next Level, 275-277

Microsoft Office 2013 has added new functionality that gives businesses the ability to take a huge leap forward in reporting without complicated IT projects. In this session we’ll review how you can take advantage of the new features coming to get better insight into how your business is performing now and also the future.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Overview, 271-273

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 features giving people more value than any other release. In this session, we’ll provide an overview of the top features in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013–and you’ll walk away with the top reasons you should consider upgrading.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013: Fixed Assets, 278-280

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 new features. In this session, we’ll shine a spotlight on Fixed Assets and you’ll soon see why you should consider taking advantage what Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has to offer. We’ve added over a dozen of your most requested Fixed Asset features such as historical reporting and multiple calendars. So if you are using Fixed Assets, this is a ‘must attend’ session.

OR

–        Better Reporting with Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013, 266-268

Overwhelmed by the number of reporting options available or just feel like you are not taking full advantage of the tools you use? This session will provide an overview of the reporting tools available for Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 as well as showcase how to make the most of the reporting tools you use.

OR

–        SmartList Builder & Excel Report Builder for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 275-277

Discover how every Microsoft Dynamics GP user can build Smartlist reports on any data, to do their job better. Publish your new SmartLists as ‘live’ excel reports so everyone can access them. We’ll teach you how to build a complex SL report from scratch.

OR

–        Current Extender Customers: Discussion on Move of Product to eOne Solutions, 265

Do you currently own Extender–now offered by eOne Solutions?  In this interactive discussion, we’ll answer all of your questions related to the transfer of the Extender product back to eOne Solutions.  Topics we’ll include in our discussion are: how this transfer affects customers;  steps customers should take; and eOne Solutions’ new product roadmap for the future. This is not a product related session. ***This session is not repeated.

8:00 – Midnight – The Parish at the House of Blues, 225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA

9:00 – Midnight – Rock-N-Rave – Bourbon Cowboy Beach on Bourbon, 241 Bourbon St.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday, March 21

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Keynote

Join us as the Microsoft Dynamics community gathers together to consider our role in the global community. Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations (1997-2006), will draw from his deep experience in the world of international diplomacy to offer stories, insight and advice about leadership and cooperation in a global business environment.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Ask Your Peers:  SmartList with Microsoft Dynamics GP, 265

Do you love SmartLists? Join this discussion with other Microsoft Dynamics GP users and experts as we dig into using the standard SmartList functionality included with Microsoft Dynamics GP.  Come prepared to share your tips on the most popular feature in Microsoft Dynamics GP. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP: Email & Microsoft Word Templates, 266-268

Microsoft Dynamics GP has the ability to leverage Microsoft Word for crafting external documents and sending them out via email. This deep dive will cover all aspects of leveraging this functionality including how to deploy, how to setup, how to modify the templates, how to setup the email and how to create personality email bodies.

OR

–        Ask the Experts:  Security in Microsoft Dynamics GP, 350-351

Is your Microsoft Dynamics GP deployment secure?  Do you have questions about security?  Join us for an enlightening discussion with other security administrators as we explore the best practices and approaches for controlling all aspects of security with Microsoft Dynamics GP. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM – Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client Overview, 266-268

With Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013, a new option for accessing the system is available through the web. This session provides an overview of the web client including how it works, options to deploy, and important factors to consider when thinking about implementing.

OR

–        Getting Better Reporting with Business Analyzer for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 271-273

For Microsoft Dynamics GP users, the most important report viewer is Business Analyzer. It provides you the ability to view reports in a way that make sense by role and allow you to perform actions that help make you more productive. Join us as we give an overview of what is available, how to deploy and why you should consider implementing this in your organization.

OR

–        Building Dashboards with Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft Excel, 278-280

Dashboards are an effective way to get important information to people within the organization. Come to this session to learn how to build dashboards that are refreshable and can easily be created and maintained. This session will focus on leveraging Microsoft Excel with a connection to the Microsoft Dynamics GP database.

OR

–        SmartList Builder & Excel Report Builder for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 275-277

Discover how every Microsoft Dynamics GP user can build Smartlist reports on any data, to do their job better. Publish your new SmartLists as ‘live’ excel reports so everyone can access them. We’ll teach you how to build a complex SL report from scratch.

 

 

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Overview, La Nouvelle AB

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 features giving people more value than any other release. In this session, we’ll provide an overview of the top features in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013–and you’ll walk away with the top reasons you should consider upgrading.

OR

–        What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013:  Financials, 281-282

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 new features.  Join us as we review the hot new features in financials–including General Ledger, Accounts Payables, Accounts Receivable and Fixed Assets–that were added in our new release and why you should consider leveraging them.

OR

–        Ask the Experts: Financials for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 349

Are you an experienced power user of Financials in Microsoft Dynamics GP?  Come share your knowledge in this open and interactive format! With experts on hand to field the tough questions, this discussion will cover the core modules of General Ledger, Receivables, Payables and other Financials modules.  *Sponsored by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group *

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM – What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013: Distribution, 281-282

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 new features.  In this session we will cover the features in distribution, which includes Inventory, Sales Order, and Purchase Order, that were added in this latest release and why you should consider using them.

OR

–        What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013: System, 278-280

Many new features in Microsoft Dynamics GP span the entire system, giving value to all Microsoft Dynamics GP users. We’ll dissect the new features that all Microsoft Dynamics GP users will enjoy. A few of those features include email functionality, deployment changes, printer options and much more.

OR

–        Reconciliation Best Practices in Microsoft Dynamics GP, 271-273

Are you confident in the process you take to reconcile the sub-ledgers to the General Ledger?  Gain even greater confidence as we talk about the best practices in reconciling with the reconcile process including Inventory, Bank Reconciliation, Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable.

7:30 PM – 11:00 PM – Convergence Closing Celebration

As Convergence comes to a close, get ready to celebrate a great week! You definitely won’t want to miss this closing party—complete with terrific food and beverages, fun activities, and an amazing concert with Matchbox Twenty! It’s the perfect way to celebrate with friends and colleagues and cap off your Convergence 2013 experience!

 

Convergence Schedule Recommendations – Dynamics CRM (End User) Track

slooby9 Computers and Internet, Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics CRM , , , , , , , ,

2

March 18-21, 2013 | New Orleans, LA

About Convergence

As the premier event for the Microsoft Dynamics Customer and Partner business community, Convergence is where opportunity and innovation meet to deliver real business value. It’s the chance to make key business connections and to discover the full potential of Microsoft Dynamics solutions.

 

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience

 

The Expo Experience puts the global Microsoft Dynamics community front and center as our valued partners from around the world bring their technology innovations to you. The Microsoft Solutions Experience runs through the middle of the Experience Center and is your place to go for Technical Support, Product Demos, and the AXUG, CRMUG, GPUG, and NAVUG User Groups.

 

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience Hours:             Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 -12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

 

Community Experience

 

See the community come alive as this gathering space–on Level 1 of the NOMCC—offers you opportunities for networking, sharing and relaxation.

 

Community Experience Hours:                                                            Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

 

Convergence Café

 

Stop by the new lounge area, similar to your favorite neighborhood hangout. You’ll find tables and couches where you can meet-up with others, access Wi-Fi, recharge your devices, and enjoy fun refreshments from some of our Microsoft Dynamics customers.

 

 

 

Monday, March 18

 

11:00 AM – Registration Opens

Onsite registration will be located in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOMCC), NO, LA.

11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.

Morial Convention Center.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Sales & Marketing Collaboration Tips & Tricks in Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 275-277

Find out how sales and marketing teams are using CRM as a tool to collaborate and share information. Learn how Microsoft Dynamics CRM provides tools to address sensitive issues around whom own the data and what is being done with contacts that are put in by individuals on both marketing and sales teams.

1:30 PM – 2:30 –  5 Ways Mobile Will Boost Your CRM Strategy, 278-280

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is really a phrase of stubbornness.  Unfortunately, doing things a certain way because that’s how they’ve always been done keeps your organization from growing. Join this session to learn the top five ways mobile can boost your CRM strategy. Mobile CRM experts from Sonoma Partners and Resco will share the key reasons having a solid plan for mobile can take your CRM – and with it, your business – to new levels.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics CRM Data Integrity – Good & Bad, 271-273

Join this session to gain insight into both good and bad examples of CRM data integrity and stewardship. This session will share real life customer scenarios illustrating how data integrity can impact adoption, performance, development and competitive advantage. We’ll discuss the must-haves for strong data stewardship such as governance and quality assurance.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 & Microsoft SharePoint 2013: A New Way to Work Together, 281-282

The integration of Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Microsoft SharePoint is not a new topic, however, the ‘December’ release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 working with the new Microsoft SharePoint 2013 provides a whole new level of integration between these two platforms. Join this session to explore a new way to organize, sync and share all your content. We’ll navigate through topics including social and team collaboration, cross-system visibility and mobility.

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM – Roles, Hall C, CEC

This informal networking session offers you the opportunity to gather together with others in the Microsoft Dynamics CRM community that serve similar roles in your day-to-day work life, including: Executive/Project Managers; Business Users; System Administration/IT Support; and Technical/Developers. *Hosted by the CRMUG*

4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – Industries, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together with others in the Microsoft Dynamics CRM community in similar industries to connect, share experiences and swap ideas. Industries to include: Manufacturing; Public Sector – Government/Healthcare; Public Sector – Education; Financial Services; Professional Services; CRM Online and Non-Profit. *Hosted by the CRMUG*

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM – Hot Topics, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together with others in the Microsoft Dynamics CRM community with similar interests to connect, share experiences and swap ideas. Topics will include: User Adoption; Marketing & Social CRM; Windows 8 Development & CRM; Extending CRM; Upgrading CRM; Mobile CRM; Business Intelligence & Reporting/Dashboards; Customer Service/Customer Care; Integration & Data Management; and Sales Management/SFA. *Hosted by the CRMUG*

6:00 – 9:00pm – Convergence Experience Reception

                             Join us as we kick-off Convergence 2013! This year we are starting things off in the hub of it all –                                          the Convergence Experience Center. This is your opportunity to get familiar with the amazing                               resources and activities in this area that are available to you all week – from the hottest solutions                                        and offerings from our partners from around the globe, to the multiple opportunities to network                                        with your peers. And no reception would be complete without food and beverages, a little music                                  and entertainment, and other fun activities that await – all with some great New Orleans flavor                                           kicked in!

9:30 PM – Convergence Carnival – Republic New Orleans – 828 South Peters Street

 

 

Tuesday, March 19

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Opening Keynote

The Opening Keynote is our time for the community to come together as the course is set                                               for both the future of Microsoft Dynamics and your time at Convergence 2013. Join Kirill                                                  Tatarinov, President of Microsoft Business Solutions Division, Microsoft Corporation, as the                                stories unfold and the vision is revealed for A World Ahead.

11:00 AM– 12:00 PM – The New Era in CRM, La Nouvelle ABC

Join us to celebrate the first decade of Microsoft Dynamics CRM and the tremendous momentum we’ve built together. Then, let’s look to the future…we’ll share our vision, discuss how we see the role of CRM changing as we enter the Era of the Customer and what that means for sales, marketing and customer care. And we’ll show you the path forward in exciting new product demonstrations. You’ll leave with a fresh perspective on opportunities before us and how Microsoft Dynamics CRM can help transform your business.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Analytics Made Simple with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 393-396

Increase the insights your users gain from business data by providing them with interactive and compelling charting, dashboards and desktop analysis tools in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. In this session, you’ll learn which options are available for analytics within Microsoft Dynamics CRM; how to visually present information to users where and when they need it; how to make charts and dashboards more relevant to individuals; and how to increase business performance with your business data.

OR

–        Mobile Options for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 391-392

Individuals are increasingly reliant on mobile devices. Whether in sales or service, there is a need to access CRM information and perform actions in real-time. Microsoft Dynamics CRM has a large number of mobile CRM solution options available. Come learn about the available options for your specific business processes. You’ll see practical demos of these solutions running on a variety of mobile devices. Additionally, this session will cover an overview of the mobility strategy for Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

OR

–        Take Your Marketing to the Next Level with Microsoft Dynamics CRM & MarketingPilot, 388-390

According to Gartner, “companies that develop an integrated marketing management strategy will deliver a 50% higher return on marketing investment than those who don’t.” Microsoft Dynamics CRM has made significant investments in marketing automation with the acquisition of MarketingPilot, a solution that provides many new capabilities in campaign, marketing resource and marketing performance management. Learn how these capabilities can save your marketing team time & money and deliver more qualified leads to sales.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Boost Your Sales Productivity with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 388-390

Learn how you can leverage Microsoft Dynamics CRM to improve your sales effectiveness. Hear how the sales management capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM can drive better win-rates, pipeline insight and sales process management. Hear best practices on how other customers are using Microsoft Dynamics CRM to optimize their sales operations. See how the new user experiences in Microsoft Dynamics CRM can improve CRM adoption and utilization by your sales teams.

OR

–        Customer Care Excellence in the Age of the Customer, 391-392

Companies today face a common challenge of attracting, engaging and retaining today’s highly empowered and connected customer. What does it take to thrive in the new customer age? Industry experts and customer-centric organizations agree that that the most successful organizations are those that enable their employees to respond effectively to customers to drive successful outcomes and engender customer loyalty.

OR

–        Ask the MVPs: Q&A Discussion with Microsoft Dynamics CRM MVPs, 386

The Microsoft Dynamics MVP Program recognizes highly skilled Microsoft Dynamics CRM professionals with the Microsoft Most Value Professional (MVP) Award. We encourage you to bring questions, challenges, and thoughts to this interactive discussion with a panel of CRM MVPs who can provide advice to help you realize your business goals and get more out of your CRM investment.  Note: This session is typically targeted at System Administrators, IT Professionals, or Technical/Developer audiences.  *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

 

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM – ACE Partner Reception – Hilton Spirits Bar – 2 Poydras Street

 

Wednesday, March 20

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 PM – Driving Marketing Effectiveness: Tips & Tricks with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 386

Attend this session to learn how your organization can leverage the powerful marketing capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Your active participation will help to discuss best practices for improving the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and alignment with sales. Gather up product tips and best practices so you can optimize your marketing efforts and activities. *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

OR

–        Best Practices for Managing Sales Teams & Collaboration, 387

Join this interactive session and explore how you can up-level your sales organization. Learn how to use Microsoft Dynamics CRM to achieve better team selling and collaboration across your organization. Hear best practices and tips from knowledgeable partners and customers and share your own experiences. *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Analytics Made Simple with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 391-392

Increase the insights your users gain from business data by providing them with interactive and compelling charting, dashboards and desktop analysis tools in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. In this session, you’ll learn which options are available for analytics within Microsoft Dynamics CRM; how to visually present information to users where and when they need it; how to make charts and dashboards more relevant to individuals; and how to increase business performance with your business data.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics CRM: Product Recap & Roadmap Primer, 393-396

Microsoft Dynamics CRM has delivered new levels of productivity for organizations. In this session, we’ll recap the broad range of capabilities delivered in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Additionally we’ll demonstrate the updated user experience and integrated social collaboration capabilities delivered in our recent December 2012 Service Update. Finally, we’ll outline our vision and roadmap for the future of Microsoft Dynamics CRM over the next 6-24 months. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Boost Your Sales Productivity with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 388-390

Learn how you can leverage Microsoft Dynamics CRM to improve your sales effectiveness. Hear how the sales management capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM can drive better win-rates, pipeline insight and sales process management. Hear best practices on how other customers are using Microsoft Dynamics CRM to optimize their sales operations. See how the new user experiences in Microsoft Dynamics CRM can improve CRM adoption and utilization by your sales teams.

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM – Get To Know CRMUG-the Community that Puts You in the Know About Microsoft

Dynamics CRM, 265

Find out why the Dynamics CRM User Group is the #1 resource for getting maximum benefits from Microsoft Dynamics CRM! Discover the hundreds of resources we offer, including conferences, regional chapter meetings, virtual tools, low-cost instructor-led training courses and more. Experience our newest tool, CRMUG Collaborate, which allows you to learn and share tips, tricks and best practices with others. Meet users whose membership has saved thousands through greater productivity and reduced expenses.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Document Management & Collaboration Best Practices with Microsoft Dynamics CRM,

391-392

Microsoft provides a wealth of management solutions, including Microsoft Dynamics CRM, to enable document management and improve collaboration productivity. Uncover best practices focused on how Microsoft Dynamics CRM–in conjunction with solutions like Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Lync and Yammer–can help drive effective collaboration in your organization. Microsoft Dynamics CRM provides valuable capabilities in how users and teams interact and collaborate on business processes.

OR

–        Ask the MVPs: Q&A Discussion with Microsoft Dynamics CRM MVPs, 386

The Microsoft Dynamics MVP Program recognizes highly skilled Microsoft Dynamics CRM professionals with the Microsoft Most Value Professional (MVP) Award. We encourage you to bring questions, challenges, and thoughts to this interactive discussion with a panel of CRM MVPs who can provide advice to help you realize your business goals and get more out of your CRM investment.  Note: This session is typically targeted at System Administrators, IT Professionals, or Technical/Developer audiences.  *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics CRM: Reimagining the User Experience, 383-385

The needs of the modern business professional have expanded beyond a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Our strategy with Microsoft Dynamics CRM is to provide our customers with the most natural and familiar user experience regardless of where and how the user needs to interact with CRM information and processes. Come to this session to see how users today work with CRM across different browsers, mobile devices and Microsoft Office. We’ll also preview innovation in user experiences to be delivered in future releases.

OR

–        Finding Help When & Where You Need It:  Microsoft Dynamics CRM Documentation,

Resources & Communities, 387

Join us for this engaging interactive session to talk about the Microsoft Dynamics CRM information landscape. We’ll be looking at our various web portals designed with specific audiences in mind, talking about the various online communities and forums where customers and partners engage, and discussing help model improvements and future user assistance customization opportunities. Attendees should leave this session with a better understanding of how to find the CRM information they need.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Building a Social Strategy for Your Business, Theater A

Many organizations establish a Twitter or Facebook account and think that the job is done! Come to this session if you are interested in establishing a social strategy. If you are going to successfully harness social technologies, you need to do it properly – which involves thinking about how it fits into your communication and collaboration strategy. We’ll outline best practices and tips and tricks to get you started as well as how Microsoft Dynamics CRM and other Microsoft technologies can assist.

OR

–        Mobile CRM: Increasing Sales & Service Effectiveness, 387

In this interactive discussion, you’ll learn how to maximize the productivity and effectiveness of your sales and service professionals with mobile applications. Mobile functionality puts your teams closer to customers and keeps them there. With powerful features for users, unique benefits for IT and unparalleled value for management, a mobile solution that truly meets the needs of today’s customer-agile company.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Driving Sales Effectiveness Using Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 350-351

In today’s ever-changing economy, sales effectiveness and efficiency continues to be a priority. Companies are arming their sales organizations with access to real-time actionable business insight, enterprise collaboration tools, and adaptive business technology to better sell, compete and win. We’ll discuss how Microsoft and Microsoft Dynamics CRM can help provide the answer to this sales challenge and discuss how other customers were able to improve the effectiveness of their sales operations.

OR

–        Achieving Customer Service Excellence: Tips & Tricks with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 387

Engage with your fellow attendees to discuss how the use of Microsoft Dynamics CRM can provide service that meets customer expectations. Come prepared to share best practices and gather up tips and tricks that will help you meet your customers’ needs and give you the information and tools required to deliver precise and relevant service and support. *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

OR

–        Practical Guide to Business Process Management (BPM) in Microsoft Dynamics CRM

2011, Theater A

Microsoft has invested heavily in Business Process Management tools in Microsoft Dynamics CRM since the very first release of the product. Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 customers have an incredibly rich toolset to configure and manage complex business processes. Come to this session to learn about innovative ways to use BPM features, such as dialogs and workflows in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, to automate and manage diverse business processes for your organization.

8:00 – Midnight – The Parish at the House of Blues, 225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA

9:00 – Midnight – Rock-N-Rave – Bourbon Cowboy Beach on Bourbon, 241 Bourbon St.

 

 

Thursday, March 21

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Keynote

Join us as the Microsoft Dynamics community gathers together to consider our role in the global community. Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations (1997-2006), will draw from his deep experience in the world of international diplomacy to offer stories, insight and advice about leadership and cooperation in a global business environment.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Mobile CRM: Increasing Sales & Service Effectiveness, 387

In this interactive discussion, you’ll learn how to maximize the productivity and effectiveness of your sales and service professionals with mobile applications. Mobile functionality puts your teams closer to customers and keeps them there. With powerful features for users, unique benefits for IT and unparalleled value for management, a mobile solution that truly meets the needs of today’s customer-agile company.

OR

–        Driving Marketing Effectiveness: Tips & Tricks with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 386

Attend this session to learn how your organization can leverage the powerful marketing capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Your active participation will help to discuss best practices for improving the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and alignment with sales. Gather up product tips and best practices so you can optimize your marketing efforts and activities. *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

OR

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Still Signing Contracts on Paper, Are You NUTS? How DocuSign eSignature Transforms

Sales, 352

Learn how DocuSign helps businesses of all sizes deliver extraordinary ROI by making it easy, fast, and secure to close deals. Collect information, signatures and payment – anytime, anywhere, on any device – in 40 languages. DocuSign’s integration with Microsoft Dynamics CRM and extensive API’s make it easy to add this functionality to your existing system and customize to any need. DocuSign is the global standard for eSignature with more than 27 million users in 188 countries.

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM – Document Management & Collaboration Best Practices with Microsoft Dynamics CRM,

391-392

Microsoft provides a wealth of management solutions, including Microsoft Dynamics CRM, to enable document management and improve collaboration productivity. Uncover best practices focused on how Microsoft Dynamics CRM–in conjunction with solutions like Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Lync and Yammer–can help drive effective collaboration in your organization. Microsoft Dynamics CRM provides valuable capabilities in how users and teams interact and collaborate on business processes.

OR

–        A Practical Guide to Business Process Management (BPM) in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, 388-390

Microsoft has invested heavily in Business Process Management tools in Microsoft Dynamics CRM since the very first release of the product. Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 customers have an incredibly rich toolset to configure and manage complex business processes. Come to this session to learn about innovative ways to use BPM features, such as dialogs and workflows in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, to automate and manage diverse business processes for your organization.

OR

–        Best Practices for Managing Sales Teams & Collaboration, 387

Join this interactive session and explore how you can up-level your sales organization. Learn how to use Microsoft Dynamics CRM to achieve better team selling and collaboration across your organization. Hear best practices and tips from knowledgeable partners and customers and share your own experiences. *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Top 10 Solutions from the Microsoft Dynamics Marketplace, 393-396

It’s easier than you think to unlock amazing value from the cloud! The Microsoft Dynamics Marketplace provides more than 1500 solutions to extend your sales, service and marketing capabilities with Microsoft Dynamics CRM.  In this session, we’ll showcase some of the hottest solutions on the Marketplace today.

OR

–        Getting Started with Your Social Technology Strategy, 386

Many organizations are struggling with this new world of social networks and technologies. Come to this session to discuss business scenarios across sales, service and marketing where significant business value can be derived from the inclusion of social technologies in your strategy. We’ll cover practical steps to getting started on this journey and how Microsoft can support your strategy. Come prepared to exchange ideas with other organizations on how social technologies can align to your business objectives.

OR

–        Mobile Options for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 388-390

Individuals are increasingly reliant on mobile devices. Whether in sales or service, there is a need to access CRM information and perform actions in real-time. Microsoft Dynamics CRM has a large number of mobile CRM solution options available. Come learn about the available options for your specific business processes. You’ll see practical demos of these solutions running on a variety of mobile devices. Additionally, this session will cover an overview of the mobility strategy for Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM – Finding Help When & Where You Need It:  Microsoft Dynamics CRM Documentation,

Resources & Communities, 386

Join us for this engaging interactive session to talk about the Microsoft Dynamics CRM information landscape. We’ll be looking at our various web portals designed with specific audiences in mind, talking about the various online communities and forums where customers and partners engage, and discussing help model improvements and future user assistance customization opportunities. Attendees should leave this session with a better understanding of how to find the CRM information they need.

OR

–        Achieving Customer Service Excellence: Tips & Tricks with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 387

Engage with your fellow attendees to discuss how the use of Microsoft Dynamics CRM can provide service that meets customer expectations. Come prepared to share best practices and gather up tips and tricks that will help you meet your customers’ needs and give you the information and tools required to deliver precise and relevant service and support. *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

7:30 PM – 11:00 PM – Convergence Closing Celebration

As Convergence comes to a close, get ready to celebrate a great week! You definitely won’t want to miss this closing party—complete with terrific food and beverages, fun activities, and an amazing concert with Matchbox Twenty! It’s the perfect way to celebrate with friends and colleagues and cap off your Convergence 2013 experience!

Recomended by Kathy Johnson, PMP, Director of Cosulting

Convergence 2013 Schedule Recommendations – Dynamics CRM IT Track

slooby9 Computers and Internet, Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics CRM , , , , , ,

Convergence Schedule Recommendations – Dynamics CRM IT Track

2

March 18-21, 2013 | New Orleans, LA

 

About Convergence 

As the premier event for the Microsoft Dynamics Customer and Partner business community, Convergence is where opportunity and innovation meet to deliver real business value. It’s the chance to make key business connections and to discover the full potential of Microsoft Dynamics solutions.

 

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience

 

The Expo Experience puts the global Microsoft Dynamics community front and center as our valued partners from around the world bring their technology innovations to you. The Microsoft Solutions Experience runs through the middle of the Experience Center and is your place to go for Technical Support, Product Demos, and the AXUG, CRMUG, GPUG, and NAVUG User Groups.

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience Hours:             Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 -12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Community Experience

 

See the community come alive as this gathering space–on Level 1 of the NOMCC—offers you opportunities for networking, sharing and relaxation.

Community Experience Hours:                                                            Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Convergence Café

Stop by the new lounge area, similar to your favorite neighborhood hangout. You’ll find tables and couches where you can meet-up with others, access Wi-Fi, recharge your devices, and enjoy fun refreshments from some of our Microsoft Dynamics customers.

Monday, March 18

11:00 AM – Registration Opens

Onsite registration will be located in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOMCC), NO, LA.

11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.

Morial Convention Center.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Best Practices in Leveraging Extensibility Options for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 281-282

There is no doubt many extensibility options that exist for you as a Microsoft Dynamics CRM project manager or developer. Whether you want to use plug-ins, the SDK, or other options, it tends to be more of a question of where and when to use them. Join this session to understand more about your extensibility or software craftsmanship options for Microsoft Dynamics CRM and how to apply best practices when using the options available to you..

1:30 PM – 2:30 – Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 & Microsoft SharePoint 2013: A New Way to Work Together,

281-282

The integration of Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Microsoft SharePoint is not a new topic; however, the ‘December’ release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 working with the new Microsoft SharePoint 2013 provides a whole new level of integration between these two platforms. Join this session to explore a new way to organize sync and share all your content. We’ll navigate through topics including social and team collaboration, cross-system visibility and mobility.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics CRM Data Integrity – Good & Bad, 271-273

Join this session to gain insight into both good and bad examples of CRM data integrity and stewardship. This session will share real life customer scenarios illustrating how data integrity can impact adoption, performance, development and competitive advantage. We’ll discuss the must-haves for strong data stewardship such as governance and quality assurance.

OR

–        The CRM Whisperer – Taming your Microsoft Dynamics CRM Environment, 275-277

In this user-group breakout session, we’ll discuss troubleshooting techniques: how to decide what resource to use for whatever problems, or common scenarios that may exist in managing your Microsoft Dynamics CRM environment. Bring your real-life issues for group discussion and troubleshooting and be prepared to take notes as we share the in-the-trenches success stories in how to tame down your CRM challenges.

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM – Roles, Hall C, CEC

This informal networking session offers you the opportunity to gather together with others in the Microsoft Dynamics CRM community that serve similar roles in your day-to-day work life, including: Executive/Project Managers; Business Users; System Administration/IT Support; and Technical/Developers. *Hosted by the CRMUG*

4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – Industries, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together with others in the Microsoft Dynamics CRM community in similar industries to connect, share experiences and swap ideas. Industries to include: Manufacturing; Public Sector – Government/Healthcare; Public Sector – Education; Financial Services; Professional Services; CRM Online and Non-Profit. *Hosted by the CRMUG*

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM – Hot Topics, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together with others in the Microsoft Dynamics CRM community with similar interests to connect, share experiences and swap ideas. Topics will include: User Adoption; Marketing & Social CRM; Windows 8 Development & CRM; Extending CRM; Upgrading CRM; Mobile CRM; Business Intelligence & Reporting/Dashboards; Customer Service/Customer Care; Integration & Data Management; and Sales Management/SFA. *Hosted by the CRMUG*

6:00 – 9:00pm – Convergence Experience Reception

                             Join us as we kick-off Convergence 2013! This year we are starting things off in the hub of it all –                                          the Convergence Experience Center. This is your opportunity to get familiar with the amazing                               resources and activities in this area that are available to you all week – from the hottest solutions                                        and offerings from our partners from around the globe, to the multiple opportunities to network                                        with your peers. And no reception would be complete without food and beverages, a little music                                  and entertainment, and other fun activities that await – all with some great New Orleans flavor                                           kicked in!

9:30 PM – Convergence Carnival – Republic New Orleans – 828 South Peters Street

 

Tuesday, March 19

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Opening Keynote

The Opening Keynote is our time for the community to come together as the course is set                                               for both the future of Microsoft Dynamics and your time at Convergence 2013. Join Kirill                                                  Tatarinov, President of Microsoft Business Solutions Division, Microsoft Corporation, as the                                stories unfold and the vision is revealed for A World Ahead.

11:00 AM– 12:00 PM – The New Era in CRM, La Nouvelle ABC

Join us to celebrate the first decade of Microsoft Dynamics CRM and the tremendous momentum we’ve built together. Then, let’s look to the future…we’ll share our vision, discuss how we see the role of CRM changing as we enter the Era of the Customer and what that means for sales, marketing and customer care. And we’ll show you the path forward in exciting new product demonstrations. You’ll leave with a fresh perspective on opportunities before us and how Microsoft Dynamics CRM can help transform your business.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Analytics Made Simple with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 393-396

Increase the insights your users gain from business data by providing them with interactive and compelling charting, dashboards and desktop analysis tools in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. In this session, you’ll learn which options are available for analytics within Microsoft Dynamics CRM; how to visually present information to users where and when they need it; how to make charts and dashboards more relevant to individuals; and how to increase business performance with your business data.

OR

–        The Future is Cloudy, 383-385

Learn how Microsoft is leading the way to build the most robust cloud services infrastructure, and discover what Microsoft Dynamics is building behind the scenes to make IT invisible to CRM Online customers. You’ll learn more about the Microsoft Dynamics CRM cloud vision and plans to build the most secure and reliable cloud service offering for CRM customers. ***This session is not repeated.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Advanced Analytics for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 393-396

Join this technical session to go under the covers of reporting and analytics capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. We’ll drill into real-time charting and dashboarding features and show you how you can extend these capabilities with more complex charts and multi-series analysis. We’ll cover web resources that enable intuitive analytics capabilities. And we’ll show you powerful analysis that can be completed with Microsoft Excel 2013, PowerPivot, PowerView and other tools with SQL Server 2012. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Building Solutions That Are Maintainable & Upgradeable, 387

Microsoft Dynamics CRM introduced the solution construct, a way of packaging your customizations into a single file which can be transported between environments. Come to this session to discuss best practices on how to develop and package your solutions. Bring your specific questions and exchange ideas with other customers on how to design and package your solutions.

OR

–        Ask the MVPs: Q&A Discussion with Microsoft Dynamics CRM MVPs, 386

The Microsoft Dynamics MVP Program recognizes highly skilled Microsoft Dynamics CRM professionals with the Microsoft Most Value Professional (MVP) Award. We encourage you to bring questions, challenges, and thoughts to this interactive discussion with a panel of CRM MVPs who can provide advice to help you realize your business goals and get more out of your CRM investment.  Note: This session is typically targeted at System Administrators, IT Professionals, or Technical/Developer audiences.  *Sponsored by the CRM UG*

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM – ACE Partner Reception – Hilton Spirits Bar – 2 Poydras Street

 

Wednesday, March 20

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 PM – Microsoft Dynamics CRM: Customizing the UI (Advanced), 388-390

Microsoft Dynamics CRM has recently added a number of new user-interface elements. The updated user experience in the December 2012 update provides a new way of visualizing processes and guiding users. We have added cross-browser capabilities which bring new opportunities for the user experience. Come to this deep dive session to learn about customizing the existing classic UX as well as the updated UX. We’ll also cover best practices across different browsers with web resources, client-side JavaScript and HTML5.

OR

–        Guide to Integration with Microsoft Dynamics CRM (Advanced), 393-396

Integrating user experience, business processes, and data across applications can provide tremendous value to the business, but achieving integration can pose significant challenges. In this session we’ll discuss these challenges and talk about the choices available to address those challenges, including approaches for on-premise and cloud deployments. We’ll explain concepts through scenario-based demonstrations showing how Microsoft Dynamics CRM can integrate into your business system infrastructure. ***This session is not repeated.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Customization Tips & Tricks in Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 387

Attend this session to discuss your specific customization objectives and learn tips and tricks on how to achieve those objectives. In this session, we’ll focus on the many available options to extend Microsoft Dynamics CRM and the tools and techniques that better support a wide variety of business needs. Gain greater insight into customization strategies, drill down into real-life scenarios and uncover new ways to better adapt the user experience, business process and environment to fit your organization.

OR

–        Harnessing Cloud Technologies with Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online, 383-385

This technical session will explore how to leverage Microsoft technologies to develop cloud solutions. Join us to see these technologies in action, including Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online, Microsoft Office 365 and the Microsoft Windows Azure platform. With the evolution of cloud technologies, we now have parity in functionality between cloud and on-premises apps. We’ll also cover how you can architect business solutions that harness the power of the cloud and bridge on-premises assets for hybrid scenarios.

OR

–        Building Solutions That Are Maintainable & Upgradeable, 386

Microsoft Dynamics CRM introduced the solution construct, a way of packaging your customizations into a single file which can be transported between environments. Come to this session to discuss best practices on how to develop and package your solutions. Bring your specific questions and exchange ideas with other customers on how to design and package your solutions.

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM – PowerObjects Presents: Surface CRM – The Effective Windows 8 Experience, 356-357

Windows 8 has introduced an innovative, dynamic, process-driven user experience that is unparalleled to date. Windows 8 applications don’t sit there waiting for the users to act; they entice users in and tell them what they ought to be doing. Come find what goes into making an effective Windows 8 for Microsoft Dynamics CRM.  Hear how Power 8 CRM for Microsoft Dynamics CRM can not only increase user delight, but now more than ever, garner the user’s attention and engagement to deeper levels of user adoption. ***This session is not repeated.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Document Management & Collaboration Best Practices with Microsoft Dynamics CRM,

391-392

Microsoft provides a wealth of management solutions, including Microsoft Dynamics CRM, to enable document management and improve collaboration productivity. Uncover best practices focused on how Microsoft Dynamics CRM–in conjunction with solutions like Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Lync and Yammer–can help drive effective collaboration in your organization. Microsoft Dynamics CRM provides valuable capabilities in how users and teams interact and collaborate on business processes.

OR

–        Harnessing Social Technologies with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Theater A

The way that people and organizations interact is fundamentally changing with the continued evolution of social networks such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Learn how to harness the power of social technologies in your CRM strategies. We’ll discuss why social should matter to organizations. We’ll cover capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM and other Microsoft social technologies such as Yammer and SharePoint. We’ll provide insight into the investments made in social technology across Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

OR

–        Performance Considerations for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 388-390

Every organization is constantly seeking ways to deliver more efficiency to their users with Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Whether you are a business decision maker or salesperson, system admin or power user, if you’re interested in CRM system performance, this session will have something for you. Come see members of the product team introduce performance, how Microsoft Dynamics CRM is optimized for performance, improvements in future updates, and what you can do to improve the performance of your CRM deployment.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics CRM: Reimagining the User Experience, 383-385

The needs of the modern business professional have expanded beyond a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Our strategy with Microsoft Dynamics CRM is to provide our customers with the most natural and familiar user experience regardless of where and how the user needs to interact with CRM information and processes. Come to this session to see how users today work with CRM across different browsers, mobile devices and Microsoft Office. We’ll also preview innovation in user experiences to be delivered in future releases.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Mobile CRM: Increasing Sales & Service Effectiveness, 387

In this interactive discussion, you’ll learn how to maximize the productivity and effectiveness of your sales and service professionals with mobile applications. Mobile functionality puts your teams closer to customers and keeps them there. With powerful features for users, unique benefits for IT and unparalleled value for management, a mobile solution that truly meets the needs of today’s customer-agile company.

OR

–        Upgrading from Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0: A Practical Guide, 386

Upgrading from CRM 4.0 to newer versions of Microsoft Dynamics CRM provides new capabilities to drive business value. This session will provide a detailed view of managing the upgrade process and covers the end-to-end flow of upgrading from Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 to future releases of Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Come and share your tips, tricks and best practices as well as hear other customers’ experiences to help you plan and execute your upgrade. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Building an Extended CRM Application for Non-Developers, 393-396

Microsoft Dynamics CRM provides a framework that allows you to define a business application without writing a single line of code! Everyone can configure powerful applications but–are you a little too intimidated to get started? Join us to learn the basics of how to configure a business data model, user experience, social collaboration, reports and business processes. You’ll learn dozens of tips and tricks and better understand the power and flexibility of your Microsoft Dynamics CRM investment. ***This session is not repeated.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – A Data Management Best Practices for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 388-390

Data is the true value of any CRM solution. Learn all aspects of managing data effectively in Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Whether looking at large initial data loads from other sources, data cleansing or de-duplication, a range of tools are provided. We’ll look at managing sample data and some of the sophisticated CRM data editing tools available with Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Microsoft Excel. We’ll demonstrate how to use these tools for your data management requirements. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Harnessing Social Technologies with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 391-392

The way that people and organizations interact is fundamentally changing with the continued evolution of social networks such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Learn how to harness the power of social technologies in your CRM strategies. We’ll discuss why social should matter to organizations. We’ll cover capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM and other Microsoft social technologies such as Yammer and SharePoint. We’ll provide insight into the investments made in social technology across Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

OR

–        Optimization Tips & Tricks for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 386

Join us for a detailed discussion of the tools and techniques which can be employed to monitor and analyze the performance of your Microsoft Dynamics CRM deployment. Learn how to identify and resolve performance issues, and discuss best practices for optimizing performance in your environment. We’ll highlight tools that help identify areas for performance improvement with Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Dynamics CRM servers.

OR

–        Practical Guide to Business Process Management (BPM) in Microsoft Dynamics CRM

2011, Theater A

Microsoft has invested heavily in Business Process Management tools in Microsoft Dynamics CRM since the very first release of the product. Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 customers have an incredibly rich toolset to configure and manage complex business processes. Come to this session to learn about innovative ways to use BPM features, such as dialogs and workflows in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, to automate and manage diverse business processes for your organization.

8:00 – Midnight – The Parish at the House of Blues, 225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA

9:00 – Midnight – Rock-N-Rave – Bourbon Cowboy Beach on Bourbon, 241 Bourbon St.

 

 

Thursday, March 21

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Keynote

Join us as the Microsoft Dynamics community gathers together to consider our role in the global community. Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations (1997-2006), will draw from his deep experience in the world of international diplomacy to offer stories, insight and advice about leadership and cooperation in a global business environment.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Mobile CRM: Increasing Sales & Service Effectiveness, 387

In this interactive discussion, you’ll learn how to maximize the productivity and effectiveness of your sales and service professionals with mobile applications. Mobile functionality puts your teams closer to customers and keeps them there. With powerful features for users, unique benefits for IT and unparalleled value for management, a mobile solution that truly meets the needs of today’s customer-agile company.

OR

–        Performance Planning, Tuning & Optimization of Microsoft Dynamics CRM (Advanced), 388-390

Join us as we deep dive into the tools and techniques you can use to plan, monitor, and analyze the performance of your Microsoft Dynamics CRM deployment.  We’ll outline possible performance issues–how to plan for them, mitigate them, and fix them.  We’ll cover best practices that help identify areas for performance improvement with your network, Microsoft SQL Server, and Microsoft Dynamics CRM servers.  We’ll also highlight the top five ways to improve the performance of your Microsoft Dynamics CRM deployment. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics CRM: Customizing the UI (Advanced), 393-396

Microsoft Dynamics CRM has recently added a number of new user-interface elements. The updated user experience in the December 2012 update provides a new way of visualizing processes and guiding users. We have added cross-browser capabilities which bring new opportunities for the user experience. Come to this deep dive session to learn about customizing the existing classic UX as well as the updated UX. We’ll also cover best practices across different browsers with web resources, client-side JavaScript and HTML5.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM – Optimization Tips & Tricks for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 386

Join us for a detailed discussion of the tools and techniques which can be employed to monitor and analyze the performance of your Microsoft Dynamics CRM deployment. Learn how to identify and resolve performance issues, and discuss best practices for optimizing performance in your environment. We’ll highlight tools that help identify areas for performance improvement with Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Dynamics CRM servers.

OR

–        Harnessing Social Technologies with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 393-396

The way that people and organizations interact is fundamentally changing with the continued evolution of social networks such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Learn how to harness the power of social technologies in your CRM strategies. We’ll discuss why social should matter to organizations. We’ll cover capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics CRM and other Microsoft social technologies such as Yammer and SharePoint. We’ll provide insight into the investments made in social technology across Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

OR

–        A Practical Guide to Business Process Management (BPM) in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, 388-390

Microsoft has invested heavily in Business Process Management tools in Microsoft Dynamics CRM since the very first release of the product. Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 customers have an incredibly rich toolset to configure and manage complex business processes. Come to this session to learn about innovative ways to use BPM features, such as dialogs and workflows in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011, to automate and manage diverse business processes for your organization.

OR

–        Integrating Your ERP System with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 383-385

Interested in discovering how to empower your business by leveraging integration between ERP and CRM? This session will cover methodologies for combining transactional data from Microsoft Dynamics ERP products (AX, NAV, GP and SL), or third-party ERPs such as SAP and Oracle, with relational data from Microsoft Dynamics CRM. The first portion of the session will focus on business value with product demonstration, including partner discussions, and the second, a technical deep-dive. ***This session is not repeated.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Developer’s Guide to Integrating Microsoft Dynamics CRM & Microsoft SharePoint 2013,

391-392

Many organizations use both Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Microsoft SharePoint and are increasingly looking for ways to integrate these two technologies. With the new wave of SharePoint 2013 and Office 2013 suites, it is now even easier and compelling to integrate them with Microsoft Dynamics CRM for collaborative cloud solutions. Come learn some of the developer patterns and practices you can use when building apps using technologies such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM, SharePoint 2013, Office 365, and more. ***This session is not repeated.

OR

–        Customization Tips & Tricks in Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 387

Attend this session to discuss your specific customization objectives and learn tips and tricks on how to achieve those objectives. In this session, we’ll focus on the many available options to extend Microsoft Dynamics CRM and the tools and techniques that better support a wide variety of business needs. Gain greater insight into customization strategies, drill down into real-life scenarios and uncover new ways to better adapt the user experience, business process and environment to fit your organization.

OR

–        Mobile Options for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, 388-390

Individuals are increasingly reliant on mobile devices. Whether in sales or service, there is a need to access CRM information and perform actions in real-time. Microsoft Dynamics CRM has a large number of mobile CRM solution options available. Come learn about the available options for your specific business processes. You’ll see practical demos of these solutions running on a variety of mobile devices. Additionally, this session will cover an overview of the mobility strategy for Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM – Finding Help When & Where You Need It:  Microsoft Dynamics CRM Documentation,

Resources & Communities, 386

Join us for this engaging interactive session to talk about the Microsoft Dynamics CRM information landscape. We’ll be looking at our various web portals designed with specific audiences in mind, talking about the various online communities and forums where customers and partners engage, and discussing help model improvements and future user assistance customization opportunities. Attendees should leave this session with a better understanding of how to find the CRM information they need.

7:30 PM – 11:00 PM – Convergence Closing Celebration

As Convergence comes to a close, get ready to celebrate a great week! You definitely won’t want to miss this closing party—complete with terrific food and beverages, fun activities, and an amazing concert with Matchbox Twenty! It’s the perfect way to celebrate with friends and colleagues and cap off your Convergence 2013 experience!

Recomended by Kathy Johnson, PMP – Director of Consulting

Convergence Schedule Recommendations – Dynamics GP IT Professional Track

slooby9 Computers and Internet, Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics CRM , , , , , , , , , ,

March 18-21, 2013 | New Orleans, LA

 

About Convergence

 

As the premier event for the Microsoft Dynamics Customer and Partner business community, Convergence is where opportunity and innovation meet to deliver real business value. It’s the chance to make key business connections and to discover the full potential of Microsoft Dynamics solutions.

 

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience

 

The Expo Experience puts the global Microsoft Dynamics community front and center as our valued partners from around the world bring their technology innovations to you. The Microsoft Solutions Experience runs through the middle of the Experience Center and is your place to go for Technical Support, Product Demos, and the AXUG, CRMUG, GPUG, and NAVUG User Groups.

Expo and Microsoft Solutions Experience Hours:             Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 -12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Community Experience

 

See the community come alive as this gathering space–on Level 1 of the NOMCC—offers you opportunities for networking, sharing and relaxation.

Community Experience Hours:                                                            Monday, March 18 – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday, March 19 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, March 20 – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday, March 21 – 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Convergence Café

Stop by the new lounge area, similar to your favorite neighborhood hangout. You’ll find tables and couches where you can meet-up with others, access Wi-Fi, recharge your devices, and enjoy fun refreshments from some of our Microsoft Dynamics customers.

Monday, March 18

11:00 AM – Registration Opens

Onsite registration will be located in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOMCC), NO, LA.

11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Maximizing SQL Server Performance with Microsoft Dynamics GP, 340-341

Increase your confidence and knowledge as we explore how to maximize the performance of a SQL                               server running Microsoft Dynamics GP databases. We’ll also review the settings and maintenance                                      items you should be using, along with other important things you can do to increase performance,                                 including off load reporting, and data warehousing. This session is hosted by GPUG.

1:30 PM – 2:30 – Using SQL Reporting Services to Create Financial Reports for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 353-355

Don’t miss this insightful session, hosted by GPUG, as we examine the processes used to create an                                           income statement report for Microsoft Dynamics GP by using SQL Server Reporting Services.

OR

–        Excel Report Builder: How2 343-345

In this GPUG-hosted session, we’ll dig into Excel Report Builder and build reports from scratch –                                     step by step. Discover how to use sexy formatting in Microsoft Excel without breaking your data                                        connections to deliver everything SmartList Builder does but without a GP license.

OR

–        What Tool Should You Pull From the Toolbox? 356-357

Let’s say you want a report out of Microsoft Dynamics GP; should you use Report Writer, Excel                                         Report Builder, SmartList, SmartList Builder, SQL Reporting Services, or something else? Or let’s say                                    you need a new field or a customization within Microsoft Dynamics GP; should you use Modifier,                                       Extender, Dexterity, .Net or something else? Join this session to learn what tool is best for the job.

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM – Roles, Hall C, CEC

This informal networking session offers you the opportunity to gather together with others in the                                            Microsoft Dynamics GP community that serve similar roles in your day-to-day work life, including:                                       Accountants; A/P Professionals; A/R Professionals; Budget Managers; Business Analysts;                                                          CFO/Controllers; Customer Service/Order Entry; Developers; Human Resources; Internal Auditors; IT                                  Professionals; Operations/Inventory Managers; Owners/Principles; Payroll; Project Managers;                                   Purchasing; and System Administrators.

4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – Geographies, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together regionally with others in the Microsoft                                    Dynamics GP community to share experiences and swap ideas. You’ll be able to easily connect with                                 folks from your region, whether in the United States, Canada, or internationally. Hosted by GPUG

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM – Hot Topics, Hall C, CEC

Join this informal networking session as we gather together with others in the community with                                        similar interests to connect, share experiences and swap ideas. Topics will include: budgeting;                                         business intelligence; collections management; disaster recovery; document                                                           management/workflow; E-commerce; GP in the cloud; inventory management; manufacturing;                                  multi-company installations; project management; recent implementations; sales & tax                                                       management; security; tools & integration; transitioning from FRx; and upgrading.

6:00 – 9:00pm – Convergence Experience Reception

                             Join us as we kick-off Convergence 2013! This year we are starting things off in the hub of it all –                                          the Convergence Experience Center. This is your opportunity to get familiar with the amazing                               resources and activities in this area that are available to you all week – from the hottest solutions                                        and offerings from our partners from around the globe, to the multiple opportunities to network                                        with your peers. And no reception would be complete without food and beverages, a little music                                  and entertainment, and other fun activities that await – all with some great New Orleans flavor                                           kicked in!

9:30 PM – Convergence Carnival – Republic New Orleans – 828 South Peters Street

Tuesday, March 19

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Opening Keynote

The Opening Keynote is our time for the community to come together as the course is set                                               for both the future of Microsoft Dynamics and your time at Convergence 2013. Join Kirill                                                  Tatarinov, President of Microsoft Business Solutions Division, Microsoft Corporation, as the                                stories unfold and the vision is revealed for A World Ahead.

11:00 AM– 12:00 PM – Getting Inspired with Microsoft Dynamics GP, Hall IJ

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 is here! Come and see the product in action, experience the innovative new Web Client, rich interoperability with other Microsoft technologies, and some of the 125 feature and capability enhancements that make this such a historic release. Hear from early adopter customers who are benefiting from the solution right now, and find out where we are taking the solution in the future. Get excited, get ready, and prepare to be inspired with Microsoft Dynamics GP.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Your New Office – Social Productivity at Work, Theater ABC

Join Jared Spataro, Senior Director – Microsoft Office Division, for an overview of the new Office and Microsoft’s vision for enterprise social. Learn how Office is putting the cloud, social, and mobile to work to help you compete and win in an increasingly fast-paced world.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – 50 Tips in 50 Minutes for Microsoft Dynamics GP: The Next Generation, 271-273

Want more tips for Microsoft Dynamics GP? Come to this session for a new and refreshed 50 tips in 50 minutes. This session will cover existing functionality as well as what’s new in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 in a fast-paced format that will give you tips on getting more out of your solution.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Upgrading & Deploying Microsoft Dynamics GP, 275-277

Thinking about upgrading to Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013? Come to this session to learn how the upgrade process will work including important system changes you need to be aware of when you deploy to the new version. We’ll review the steps involved, especially with named system database, multitenancy and other factors.

OR

–        Ask Your Peers: IT Professionals and Microsoft Dynamics GP, 349

Are there certain projects that just don’t seem to get done/resolved? Questions or issues that keep you awake at night? Come to this session with your IT related questions and we will find you an answer. This IT Professional panel comes with different experiences and toolsets, and they can help you get to the bottom of your challenges. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM – ACE Partner Reception – Hilton Spirits Bar – 2 Poydras Street

 

 

Wednesday, March 20

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Microsoft SQL Reporting Services & Microsoft Dynamics GP – Advanced Users, 275-277

Microsoft SQL Reporting Service is an amazing reporting tool when used to its fullest potential. In this deep dive we’ll drill into the inner workings of the tool to help you get better reporting. You won’t want to miss a minute of this session as we show how to use Report Builder, learn how to integrate reports into homepages, navigations lists and windows within Microsoft Dynamics GP, and discover which pieces of reports are important for the tools you are using to display the reports.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP: Email & Microsoft Word Templates, 266-268

Microsoft Dynamics GP has the ability to leverage Microsoft Word for crafting external documents and sending them out via email. This deep dive will cover all aspects of leveraging this functionality including how to deploy, how to setup, how to modify the templates, how to setup the email and how to create personality email bodies.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client: Deploying and Managing, Theater C

Thinking about using the Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client for your company? Do you want to access the Web client from anywhere in the world or just inside your company? Join us in this deep dive session where you will learn about the different deployment options and strategies to consider when planning for your Web client deployment. In addition, we will also demonstrate the available management tools to manage your Web Client deployment.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Administering SQL for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 271-273

Are you confident that you are managing your Microsoft SQL Server environment correctly? Come to this session to get important information on how to be an effective IT administrator in your organization. This session will help you increase your self-reliance and skill set for monitoring and maintaining your SQL environment, and give you the tools and knowledge to help troubleshoot when the unexpected happens.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Performance & Scalability in Microsoft Dynamics GP, 266-268

Is your system running at peak performance? Are there things you could do to have better performance and scalability? In this session, we’ll cover how to get Microsoft Dynamics GP to run faster and then we’ll review important troubleshooting tips if you do run into performance issues.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Introduction to the Microsoft Dynamics GP Professional Service Tools Library, Theater C

The Professional Service Tools Library (PSTL) has many tools that make life easier for a Microsoft Dynamics GP customer–and these tools are now offered at no charge. In this session we’ll introduce what all of the tools in the library do, how to deploy them, and how to use the tool.

OR

–        Introduction to Microsoft SQL Reporting Services for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 266-268

Do you want better reporting? In this session we’ll do an introduction to Microsoft SQL Reporting Services and how you can use it to get better reporting from Microsoft Dynamics GP. We’ll review the report builder functionality, create a new report, edit an existing reports and talk about how to deploy the reports to share with others.

OR

–        Take Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft Office to the Next Level, 275-277

Microsoft Office 2013 has added new functionality that gives businesses the ability to take a huge leap forward in reporting without complicated IT projects. In this session we’ll review how you can take advantage of the new features coming to get better insight into how your business is performing now and also the future.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Overview, 271-273

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 features giving people more value than any other release. In this session, we’ll provide an overview of the top features in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013–and you’ll walk away with the top reasons you should consider upgrading.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client Overview, Theater C

With Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013, a new option for accessing the system is available through the web. This session provides an overview of the web client including how it works, options to deploy, and important factors to consider when thinking about implementing.

OR

–        Better Reporting with Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013, 266-268

Overwhelmed by the number of reporting options available or just feel like you are not taking full advantage of the tools you use? This session will provide an overview of the reporting tools available for Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 as well as showcase how to make the most of the reporting tools you use.

OR

–        New Users in Microsoft Dynamics GP: Introduction, 271-273

Are you a new user of Microsoft Dynamics GP? Then this session is built especially for you. We’ll provide you with tips and tricks on how to use Microsoft Dynamics GP better so you can be more productive and more confident in using the system.

8:00 – Midnight – The Parish at the House of Blues, 225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA

9:00 – Midnight – Rock-N-Rave – Bourbon Cowboy Beach on Bourbon, 241 Bourbon St.

 

 

Thursday, March 21

 

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Keynote

Join us as the Microsoft Dynamics community gathers together to consider our role in the global community. Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations (1997-2006), will draw from his deep experience in the world of international diplomacy to offer stories, insight and advice about leadership and cooperation in a global business environment.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Ask the Experts: Security in Microsoft Dynamics GP, 350-351

Is your Microsoft Dynamics GP deployment secure? Do you have questions about security? Join us for an enlightening discussion with other security administrators as we explore the best practices and approaches for controlling all aspects of security with Microsoft Dynamics GP. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

OR

–        Using Microsoft SQL Reporting Services & Microsoft Dynamics GP for Advanced Users, 275-277

Microsoft SQL Reporting Service is an amazing reporting tool when used to its fullest potential. In this deep dive we’ll drill into the inner workings of the tool to help you get better reporting. You won’t want to miss a minute of this session as we show how to use Report Builder, learn how to integrate reports into homepages, navigations lists and windows within Microsoft Dynamics GP, and discover which pieces of reports are important for the tools you are using to display the reports.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP: Email & Microsoft Word Templates, 266-268

Microsoft Dynamics GP has the ability to leverage Microsoft Word for crafting external documents and sending them out via email. This deep dive will cover all aspects of leveraging this functionality including how to deploy, how to setup, how to modify the templates, how to setup the email and how to create personality email bodies.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client: Troubleshooting, La Nouvelle AB

Getting the Web Client for Microsoft Dynamics GP deployed is one thing, but supporting it is totally different. Come and join this session to learn the intimate details around what it takes to support and troubleshoot the Dynamics GP Web Client. If you will be working with this product, this is a session you are going to want to attend. ***Note – this is a Deep Dive level session for Experienced IT Professionals

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch – Attendee Meal Hall located in the Convergence Experience Center at the Ernest N.                                     Morial Convention Center

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM – Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client Overview, 266-268

With Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013, a new option for accessing the system is available through the web. This session provides an overview of the web client including how it works, options to deploy, and important factors to consider when thinking about implementing.

OR

–        Getting Better Reporting with Business Analyzer for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 271-273

For Microsoft Dynamics GP users, the most important report viewer is Business Analyzer. It provides you the ability to view reports in a way that make sense by role and allow you to perform actions that help make you more productive. Join us as we give an overview of what is available, how to deploy and why you should consider implementing this in your organization.

OR

–        Building Dashboards with Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft Excel, 278-280

Dashboards are an effective way to get important information to people within the organization. Come to this session to learn how to build dashboards that are refreshable and can easily be created and maintained. This session will focus on leveraging Microsoft Excel with a connection to the Microsoft Dynamics GP database.

OR

–        The Microsoft Dynamics GP Support Debugging Tool, La Nouvelle AB

The Support Debugging Tool is cool. Period! Come to this session to learn how you can administer your system with a tool that centralizes all the nuances in their environment: security, launch files, setting files, traces, logs, data exporting/importing, and the list goes on and on. Also we’ll overview the new features released that will bring more value.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Overview, La Nouvelle AB

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 has over 150 features giving people more value than any other release. In this session, we’ll provide an overview of the top features in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013–and you’ll walk away with the top reasons you should consider upgrading.

OR

–        Upgrading & Deploying Microsoft Dynamics GP, 275-277

Thinking about upgrading to Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013? Come to this session to learn how the upgrade process will work including important system changes you need to be aware of when you deploy to the new version. We’ll review the steps involved, especially with named system database, multitenancy and other factors.

OR

–        Introduction to Microsoft SQL Reporting Services for Microsoft Dynamics GP, 266-268

Do you want better reporting? In this session we’ll do an introduction to Microsoft SQL Reporting Services and how you can use it to get better reporting from Microsoft Dynamics GP. We’ll review the report builder functionality, create a new report, edit an existing reports and talk about how to deploy the reports to share with others.

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM – Take Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft Office to the Next Level

Microsoft Office 2013 has added new functionality that gives businesses the ability to take a huge leap forward in reporting without complicated IT projects. In this session we’ll review how you can take advantage of the new features coming to get better insight into how your business is performing now and also the future.

OR

–        What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013: System, 278-280

Many new features in Microsoft Dynamics GP span the entire system, giving value to all Microsoft Dynamics GP users. We’ll dissect the new features that all Microsoft Dynamics GP users will enjoy. A few of those features include email functionality, deployment changes, printer options and much more.

OR

–        Microsoft Dynamics GP 2013 Web Client For Smaller Companies, La Nouvelle AB

Do you think you are too small to add a web client into your existing deployment? That may not necessarily be the case. In this session we’ll focus on deploying and maintaining a web client geared towards smaller companies who do not have a large IT department. Attend this session to see what is possible with the web client and what is realistic for your company.

7:30 PM – 11:00 PM – Convergence Closing Celebration

As Convergence comes to a close, get ready to celebrate a great week! You definitely won’t want to miss this closing party—complete with terrific food and beverages, fun activities, and an amazing concert with Matchbox Twenty! It’s the perfect way to celebrate with friends and colleagues and cap off your Convergence 2013 experience!

Recomended by Tonya Boyce, Sr. Dynamics GP Consultant at ACE!

GP User Security Report

slooby9 Computers and Internet, Dynamics GP , , , ,

I received a request from a client who needed to supply a GP User Security Report to their auditors. Prior to GP version 10, we were at the mercy of the GP Report Writer report that was typically several thousands to several tens of thousands of pages long. We would usually modify the report to print one line per record to save space and so that it was easily exported, but even that produced a very large file. Now with the new Role-based Security in GP 10 and 2010, we have access to this data in SQL. I developed the script below and thought that others in the GP community might find it useful. It provides a nice, simple view of the user security in GP.  It does not drill down to the specific window level, but it has every user, the companies they access, the roles they are assigned to in each company and the task and task descriptions within each role.  Pretty sweet.  I hope you guys can use it someday.

The script:

Use dynamics

select rol.userid, cmp.interid, rol.securityroleid, tsk.securitytaskid, td.securitytaskname, td.securitytaskdesc

from SY10500 rol 

                inner join SY01500 cmp on rol.cmpanyid=cmp.cmpanyid

                inner join SY10600 tsk on rol.securityroleid=tsk.securityroleid

                inner join SY09000 td on tsk.securitytaskid=td.securitytaskid

order by rol.userid, cmp.interid, rol.securityroleid, tsk.securitytaskid

 

A sample result set:

Tonya Boyce

ACE Microtechnology, Inc.

http://www.acemicrotech.com

tboyce@acemicrotech.com

 

Export to Excel from Smartlist

slooby9 Computers and Internet, Dynamics GP , , ,

If you use SmartList and export the results to Excel, you know that it just CRAWLS!!! Ever wish that the export would go a little faster? Well now it can, and all you have to do is put the following line in your Dex.ini file:
SmartlistEnhancedExcelExport=TRUE
Believe it or not, it’s that simple! Once you save your Dex.ini file you’ll need to restart DynamicsGP to see the results, and you will be AMAZED at how fast the export is — it will FLY!!!

Reconciling SOP Batches from WITHIN Dynamics GP

slooby9 Computers and Internet, Dynamics GP , , , ,

Posted by Michael D Johnson II on Tuesday, August 09, 2011
An article I posted sometime ago with a SQL Script that would reconcile SOP Batch Totalshas really developed legs recently.  It’s been downloaded several times a week for several months.  As a result, I felt some enhancement was in order.To that end, I’ve compiled the same logic, with few exceptions, into an assembly you can download here.  Copy this to your Addins folder and then you can perform this same function from the Sales Batch Entry Additional Menu without having to run a SQL script or access the Reconcile Receivable Amounts Window in GP.

One exception to the logic in the script is that this will not delete empty batches.  If you have an opinion as to how valuable that feature might be please leave a comment and I will evolve this accordingly.  This utility will simply do the following:

  1. Update batch totals for those that are NOT locked by a user with a Batch Activity Record (SY00800).  This was not designed to reconcile a specific batch but rather all batches at once.  So, don’t select a batch in Sales Batch Entry when executing this routine unless you want the batch selected to be excluded from the logic.
  2. Create missing Batch Header records for batches that do exist in SOP WORK (SOP10100) but not SY00500.

This will be especially useful if you want to enable GP users to resolve SOP Batch Total discrepancies on their own without having to grant them access to the Reconcile Receivables Amounts window.

This was developed on GP 2010 and tested on both GP 2010 and GP 10.

Convergence 2011 – Proposed Accounting Track – Power User

slooby9 Computers and Internet, Dynamics GP , , , , , ,

Convergence 2011 – Power User Class Offerings

 

CSGP01-R1 Using Excel Report Builder with Microsoft Dynamics GP

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Martin Olsen, Andrew Brown

Room: A302

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

9:00-10:00

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Session Details 

If you currently use SmartList Builder then you already own Excel Report Builder and need to learn how to use it to manage your business via Excel. This session showcases the power of a unique query tool that allows you to utilize Microsoft Excel to view the live Microsoft Dynamics GP data you want and need to see. Every time you open an Excel Report builder spread sheet you know the data is live.

CSGP02-R1 Microsoft Dynamics GP: Personalizing Your Solution Using Extender

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Martin Olsen, Andrew Brown

Room: A302

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Monday, April 11

15:30-16:30

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Session Details 

Discover how to configure Microsoft Dynamics GP without writing code and spending lots of money. Learn how this easy-to-use tool that allows you to add new data fields, build new screens from scratch, create custom notes, macros, lookups and much more–without writing a single line of code. Stop working around the way Microsoft Dynamics GP does certain tasks and captures data and fill the gaps with Extender.

CSGP03-R1 Configuring Microsoft Dynamics GP with Extender

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Chris Dew, Chris Hanson

Room: A302

Audience: End User, Technical Decision Maker, Business Decision Maker, IT Professional, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

10:30-11:30

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Session Details 

This session is for the serious Microsoft Dynamics GP user who wants to take their install to the next step. We’ll explore in depth how easy it is to create custom, business specific windows to track additional data that makes sense for your business. Take this a step further to build an entire mini application. Learn how simple it is to report on Extender data. This session will get deep into the detail of Extender, with plenty of time for questions and audience participation.

CSGP05-R1 Understanding Your Enhancement Plan & What You Currently Have

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Arlin Fisher, Jared Hall

Room: A313/314

Audience: Business Decision Maker, Technical Decision Maker, Power User, Prospect

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Monday, April 11

17:00-18:00

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Session Details 

Do you know what modules you own and when your enhancement plan will expire? Are you sure you are getting the most out of your Microsoft Dynamics GP solution? Is there functionality you already own that can help your business thrive? Come to this session to learn about a ton of functionality in Microsoft Dynamics GP that solves common business problems without a large upfront investment.

CSGP06-R1 Getting More Out of Microsoft Dynamics GP: 50 Tips in 50 Minutes

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Mark Polino

Room: Marcus Auditorium

Audience: End User, Technical Decision Maker, Business Decision Maker, IT Professional, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

15:00-16:00

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Session Details 

Back by popular demand, this fast-paced workshop delivers something for everyone–beginners, intermediate and advanced users–as we share Microsoft Dynamics GP tips that you’ll want to race back and implement. With a briefcase of little nuggets that ‘wow’, including the how-to’s of the custom links feature, deleting auto complete entries and adding comments without using a comment ID, you don’t want to miss this. Past attendees have shared that this was the most useful session of the conference.

CSGP07-R1 SQL Reporting Services Using Microsoft SQL Server 2008

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Jen Olson

Room: A410

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Prospect, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

15:00-16:00

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Session Details 

Attend this session and you’ll soon see the flexibility at your fingertips when you discover how to use Microsoft SQL Reporting Services 2008 and the Report Builder 2.0 tool to create reports and gauges with your Microsoft Dynamics GP data. See how the reports you have created can be deployed and integrated with your Microsoft Dynamics GP client and rendered within your report manager web page.

CSGP08-R1 Connect & Collaborate with Business Portal

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Tom Higginbotham, John Dooley

Room: A305

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, IT Professional, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

9:00-10:00

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Session Details 

Join us as we showcase how to leverage the Microsoft SharePoint platform to extend the reach of Microsoft Dynamics GP in your organization and enhance the capabilities of Business Portal. Explore tools that are available–many which do not require deep programming knowledge or large dollar investment–and investigate how you can take advantage of them to build collaborative solutions. You’ll see scenarios that show how to harness the power of the platform as well as how to make your people more productive.

CSGP10-R1 How to Extend the Reach of Your Solution using the Microsoft Dynamics GP Light User

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Chad Niswonger, Jon Elliott

Room: A305

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Prospect, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

13:30-14:30

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Session Details 

Microsoft Dynamics GP contains a lot of value for people who do not have a full user license. This session highlights the functionality available to people who are not Microsoft Dynamics GP users and explores how to extend the reach of your solution to more people in your organization, making them more productive. See how Light Users can leverage the business intelligence capabilities in Microsoft Dynamics GP and take advantage of Business Portal to be more productive.

CSGP12-R1 New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010: Executive Center Dashboards & Home Page Metrics

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Gary Tronson, Rob Bernhardt

Room: A410

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

9:00-10:00

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Session Details 

Without the right information it’s impossible to make good decisions. Learn how the Executive Dashboards and home page metrics in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 provide the key data to understand exactly where your business stands today and to drive you through your decision making process. Gain an understanding of what the business intelligence solutions of Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 provide and how they can be easily modified to meet your unique business needs.

CSGP13 50 Tips in 50 Minutes: Project Accounting

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Shannon Aune, Pam Peterson

Room: A410

Audience: End User, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

10:30-11:30

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Session Details 

Come to this fast-paced, high energy session and learn Microsoft Dynamics GP tips for Project Accounting that you’ll want to implement immediately. This popular session, based on Mark Polino’s 50 Tips in 50 Minutes, guarantees that even the most advanced users will walk away with helpful tips and tricks. .

CSGP15-R1 Unleashing the Power of Microsoft Excel

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Mark Polino

Room: Marcus Auditorium

Audience: IT Professional, Technical Decision Maker, End User, Business Decision Maker, Prospect, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Monday, April 11

15:30-16:30

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Session Details 

Few things complement Microsoft Dynamics GP like Microsoft Excel 2010. In this session we will look at ways to get the most out Microsoft Dynamics GP data with Microsoft Excel.  This fast paced session will cover ways to get data from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Excel including SmartList Export Options, Excel Reports and MS Query. Additionally, we will look at ways to analyze Microsoft Dynamics GP once it is in Excel 2010 including subtotals, slicers, sparklines, pivot tables and PowerPivot.

CSGP16-R1 Connector for Microsoft Dynamics: Integrating Microsoft Dynamics GP & Microsoft Dynamics CRM

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Charleen Gust, Tim Estenson

Room: A313/314

Audience: IT Professional, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

13:30-14:30

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Session Details 

Do you want to integrate Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Microsoft Dynamics GP? Join us to learn about the new Connector for Microsoft Dynamics. The Connector provides the ability to integrate key sales data between the two products. We’ll tell you which data can be integrated out of the box and talk about the features and benefits of the Connector. You’ll see a demonstration of integrating data as well as the Connector interface.

CSGP17-R1 50 Tips in 50 Minutes: Financials

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Christine Galea, Ken Hubbard

Room: A313/314

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

15:00-16:00

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Session Details 

Come to this fast paced, high energy session and learn Microsoft Dynamics GP tips for Financials that you’ll want to implement fast. This popular session, based on Mark Polino’s 50 Tips in 50 Minutes, guarantees to teach you something new–even for advanced users. This session will cover topics in the range of Payables, Receivables, General Ledger, Bank Reconciliation and Fixed Assets.

CSGP18-R1 50 Tips in 50 Minutes: Human Resources & Payroll

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Terry Heley, Michelle Blaser

Room: A410

Audience: End User, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Monday, April 11

17:00-18:00

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Session Details 

Come to this fast paced, high energy session and learn Microsoft Dynamics GP tips for Human Resources and Payroll that you’ll want to implement immediately. This popular session, based on Mark Polino’s 50 Tips in 50 Minutes, guarantees to teach you something new–even advanced users! We’ll share tips and tricks on how to keep updated on tax changes and how to be more productive during year end procedures.

CSGP19-R1 50 Tips in 50 Minutes: Distribution

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Angela Ebensteiner, Stefanie Nelson

Room: A412

Audience: Business Decision Maker, End User, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Monday, April 11

17:00-18:00

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Session Details 

Come to this fast-paced, high energy session and learn Microsoft Dynamics GP tips you can implement immediately the will help you help boost productivity, increase visibility and lighten your workload for the Sales Order Processing, Inventory and Purchase Order Processing modules. This popular session, based on Mark Polino’s 50 Tips in 50 Minutes, guarantees to teach you something new–even advanced users!

NEW: CSGP20 Microsoft Dynamics GP Cloud-Based Services: Today & Beyond

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Jon Zimmermann, Grant Swenson

Room: A305

Audience: IT Professional, Technical Decision Maker, End User, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Monday, April 11

15:30-16:30

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Session Details 

Join us to learn what you can do online today and what’s being planned in the future. We’ll highlight and demonstrate credit card processing using Payment Services for Microsoft Dynamics GP and multi-channel online sales using Commerce Services for Microsoft Dynamics GP, as well as travel and expense management using Concur Premier. Understand how each service works, and review requirements for integration.

CSGP21-R1 Management Reporter 101: The Next Generation of Financial Reporting is Here

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Shiela Sogge

Room: A412

Audience: IT Professional, Business Decision Maker, Technical Decision Maker, End User, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

10:30-11:30

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Session Details 

Management Reporter is designed for high volume, presentation quality financial reporting with little to no IT involvement. In this session, learn how Management Reporter can make everyone’s job easier, from empowering your finance professionals to creating board room quality reports to reducing your IT manager’s involvement in reporting.

CSGP23-R1 Migrating from Microsoft FRx to Management Reporter for Microsoft Dynamics ERP

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Kelly Bjella, Jill Carter

Room: A412

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, Business Decision Maker, IT Professional, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Monday, April 11

15:30-16:30

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Session Details 

Are you ready to move from Microsoft FRx to Management Reporter for Microsoft Dynamics ERP? Not sure where to start? Management Reporter provides a migration wizard to migrate your FRx building blocks into Management Reporter. We’ll discuss what you need to do to get prepared for the migration and we’ll walk you through the migration step-by-step.  We’ll also talk about what’s new and exciting in Management Reporter and how to transition from FRx to Management Reporter.

CSGP26-R1 Management Reporter for Microsoft Dynamics ERP for Advanced Users

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Jill Carter

Room: A412

Audience: IT Professional, Technical Decision Maker, Business Decision Maker, End User, Prospect, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

13:30-14:30

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Session Details 

Are you ready to take your financial reporting to the next level? In this session, learn about the advanced features in Management Reporter for Microsoft Dynamics ERP. We’ll show you the Management Reporter tips and tricks that take your financial reports from basic to more complex.

CSGP22-R1 Capturing Electronic Signatures & Tracking Critical Data Changes

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Tammy Torgerson

Room: A410

Audience: End User, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Monday, April 11

15:30-16:30

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Session Details 

Attend this session to understand how Electronic Signatures and Audit Trails can help your organization manage risk and improve visibility into key business processes and information. You’ll see how Electronic Signatures can help your business implement workflow controls to require an electronic signature for nearly any field or process in the system, while Audit Trails can help you monitor changes and updates to key business data across your operations.

CSGP24-R1 Streamlining Your Budgeting & Planning with Microsoft Forecaster

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Darian Hanson, Shiela Sogge

Room: A313/314

Audience: End User, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Monday, April 11

15:30-16:30

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Session Details 

Today’s dynamic business environment requires flexible budget development with fast, easy revision capabilities. In this session, learn how Microsoft Forecaster can help you meet your financial planning and budgeting requirements and help you plan for the future realistically.

CSGP27 Microsoft FRx: Advanced Best Practices, Tips & Tricks

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Greg Byer, April Olson

Room: A412

Audience: End User, IT Professional, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

15:00-16:00

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Session Details 

As an experienced Microsoft FRx user, do you want to learn how to maximize your financial reporting with Microsoft FRx above and beyond standard reporting? This session is geared towards experienced Microsoft FRx users who want to learn advanced tips and tricks. Come and learn best practices that you can take home and implement.

NEW: CSGP30-R1 What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 R2 Part 1: Features

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Theresa Nistler, Jamie Grant

Room: A305

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, IT Professional, End User, Business Decision Maker, Prospect, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

10:30-11:30

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Session Details 

Don’t miss this opportunity to see the future of Microsoft Dynamics GP! You’ll learn about all the features you have to look forward to with the release of Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 R2. This overview session provides a great way for you to learn about the enhancements that are planned and see demos of live code focused on business intelligence along with system wide features.

CSGP31-R1 What’s New in Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 R2 Part 2: Reporting

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Brian Meier, Cory Severson

Room: Marcus Auditorium

Audience: IT Professional, Business Decision Maker, Technical Decision Maker, End User, Power User, Prospect

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

13:30-14:30

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Session Details 

Learn about all the exciting new business intelligence features releasing with Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 R2. This session will provide you with a first-hand look at new multi-company and multi-application reports, additional Word Templates, tighter integration points between Microsoft Dynamics GP and SQL Report Builder, and an in-depth look at Microsoft Dynamics GP Business Analyzer; the great new reporting application that not only allows you to view reports but to take action on the reports.

DDGP01 Financials Deep Dive: Troubleshooting Tips to Reconcile the Core Financial Modules to the General Ledger

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Robert Mountain, Jake Laux

Room: A412

Audience: End User, Power User

Skill Level: 400 – Advanced

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

16:30-18:00

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Session Details 

Become the troubleshooting expert in your organization as we study the advanced troubleshooting tips that help reconcile the core financials modules. As we focus our time on Payables Management, Receivables Management, and Bank Reconciliation, we’ll review common causes for discrepancies between each module and the General Ledger, and we’ll explore the tools available to you that help find and resolve the differences.

DDGP02 Everything You Need to Know About Management Reporter for Microsoft Dynamics ERP

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Charleen Gust, April Olson, Shiela Sogge, Jill Carter

Room: Marcus Auditorium

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, IT Professional, End User, Business Decision Maker, Prospect, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

16:30-18:00

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Session Details 

Are you ready to take your financial reporting to the next level? In this session, learn how Management Reporter can make everyone’s job easier. We’ll show you the Management Reporter tips and tricks that take your financial reports from basic to more complex.

DDGP05 What’s New in Reporting for Microsoft Dynamics GP

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Brian Meier, Robert Wagner

Room: A313/314

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Prospect, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

16:30-18:00

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Session Details 

The value of getting more insight and better decision making in Microsoft Dynamics GP has never been easier. This session will provide a basic overview of all the great new features releasing with Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 R2. In addition, we will provide a deep dive into what’s new in reporting, what’s new for Word Templates and Email functionality, and show you how to make the most of your SQL Reporting experience with the introduction of the Business Analyzer for Microsoft Dynamics GP .

DDGP06 Builder: Building SmartLists, Excel Reports, Navigation Lists & Drilldowns

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Nicole Albertson

Room: A302

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

16:30-18:00

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Session Details 

Learn how to use the Builder products to meet the unique needs of your business. This deep dive showcases the power of SmartList Builder, Excel Report Builder, Navigation List Builder, and Drill Down Builder to get you the data you really need to see.

IDGP10-R1 Microsoft Dynamics GP for Distribution/Manufacturing

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Timothy Cruickshank, Michael Shoemaker, Deven Shah, Kathy Donahue, Robert Muns

Room: A315

Audience: End User, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry: Wholesale & Distribution, Manufacturing

Tuesday, April 12

9:00-10:00

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Session Details 

Industry experts discuss today’s Microsoft Dynamics GP solution, and how they tailored it to meet the needs of the distribution and manufacturing organizations. Learn how you can meet tomorrows needs by working together today. Discuss and uncover more valuable tips and–and bring a few of your own tipcs to share. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

IDGP07-R1 Month & Year End Closing in Microsoft Dynamics GP: Best Practices

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Bob McAdam, Zubin Gidwani, Traci Shaw, Joyce VanJura

Room: A316

Audience: End User, Power User

Skill Level: 300 – Experienced

Industry:

Monday, April 11

15:30-16:30

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Session Details 

Looking for a better way to close the books in Microsoft Dynamics GP? Don’t miss this exciting discussion where month and year end closing tips and tricks will be discussed. Listen, learn, and share your closing experiences and receive immediate take back information that will make your next Microsoft Dynamics GP closing easier and more efficient! *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

IDGP03-R2 Using & Migrating to Management Reporter

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Jill Carter

Room: A307

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, IT Professional, Prospect, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Wednesday, April 13

16:30-17:30

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Session Details 

Management Reporter is a new financial reporting solution from Microsoft.  Join us to listen to fellow users to hear how they use it and tips they’ve learned throughout the  process.  Bring your questions about using Management Reporter.  We’ll also cover perspectives on migrating from FRx to Management Reporter.*Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group *

IDGP02-R1 Enhancing Your Use of SmartList with Microsoft Dynamics GP

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Daniela First, Heather Maughn, Jayne Neal, Martin Olsen

Room: A315

Audience: End User, Business Decision Maker, Power User

Skill Level: 200 – Intermediate

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

13:30-14:30

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Session Details 

Do you love SmartLists? Join this discussion with other Microsoft Dynamics GP users and experts as we dig into the details of SmartList and SmartList Builder (SLB), Microsoft SQL Views in SLB,  accesing external non Microsoft Dynamics GP data, using SmartLists for Workflow and seeing Extender data in Microsoft Dynamics GP. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

IDGP14-R1 Using & Implementing Workflow

Track: Microsoft Dynamics GP

Speaker(s): Christy Smith, Marie-Michelle Strah

Room: A307

Audience: Technical Decision Maker, End User, Business Decision Maker, IT Professional, Prospect, Power User

Skill Level: 100 – Introductory

Industry:

Tuesday, April 12

13:30-14:30

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Session Details 

In this interactive discussion, listen, learn, and share experiences as we focus on how people are using workflow or planning to use the Microsoft Dynamics GP workflow to best support their organizations unique needs. This session begins with a panel discussion led by Microsoft Dynamics GP users. *Hosted by the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group*

ACE Microsoft Dynamics GP SQL Installation and Configuration Audit

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Microsoft Dynamics GP runs on the Microsoft SQL Server database which is a scalable platform that can run a high transaction volume with little support. SQL enables you to do query, search, synchronize, report, and analyze your data easily and effectively.

Having your business data in SQL Server ensures that you have the latest advances in data integrity, performance, and manageability. You can take advantage of SQL Reporting Services to create Web-enabled reports, use integration tools like ACE eConnect templates to communicate seamlessly with other database applications, and restore your company database to a specific point in time with SQL Server’s backup and restore functionality.

However, even Microsoft SQL is not maintenance-free.  Here are some common items ACE can recommend or assist you with in maintaining a stable and well performing Dynamics GP system.

Schedule regular database maintenance. As databases grow, it is important to allow SQL to re-tune the database for optimal performance. All the tools you need to do this are part of a SQL database maintenance plan.  How often it needs to run depends on your environment, but generally weekly maintenance runs are sufficient.  Be sure your maintenance plan includes tasks to check integrity, rebuild indexes, reorganize indexes, and update statistics.

Determine your server performance baseline.  Shortages in memory, disk, or CPU can all cause major performance problems.  Windows Server comes with everything you need to monitor a server out of the box.  Check out Windows Performance Monitor and its scheduling capabilities to get a clear view of what’s happening on your server.   Often times major bottlenecks can be simply rectified, such as dropping in some additional memory in a RAM starved server.

Select the right RAID level for the job.  RAID comes in many flavors and each has its strengths and weaknesses.  Raid 5 is popular because it is usually the most economical since you lose only one drive worth of space in your array for the parity data.  However, it usually has the slowest write performance of just about any type of RAID.  Selecting RAID levels with good write performance like RAID 1 and RAID 10 can provide better performance.  Avoid RAID 0 as it does not provide any fault tolerance.

Understand the difference between simple and full recovery model in SQL.  SQL writes all changes to the database to the transaction log.  In simple recovery mode, this transaction log is automatically truncated periodically. In full recovery, it is your responsibility to manually truncate the transaction log, usually by performing a transaction log backup. The benefit of full recovery mode is that you can restore to an individual point in time, not just to the time you perform a full backup.  If you have problems with your transaction log growing constantly, and you are not concerned with point in time recovery, choose simple recovery mode.

Do not locate transaction logs and database files on the same physical drive.  Many know you should place database and log files on separate drives.  The science behind this is that SQL must write to both files at the same time when transactions are applied to the database.  Putting the files on separate physical disks allows these activities to happen in parallel. And consider that a single physical drive or array partitioned as two drives may not provide the security of two separate drives.

Use correct auto-growth and auto-shrink settings.  It’s important to understand that SQL files can be logically and physically fragmented. Frequent shrink and growth commands executed on the database will cause fragmentation of the database files.  It is better to set the size of the files to a reasonable size right away, thereby reserving a contiguous area of disk platter. This way, the logical amount of data inside the files can grow and shrink without having to alter the physical size of the database.

Don’t assume a flat file backup is sufficient for recovery purposes.   The maintenance plan wizard in SQL management studio may be sufficient for many applications, but it may not provide the same type of comprehensive reporting and monitoring you would get from a centralized backup with a commercial utility. To back up a SQL database properly, you should strongly consider using commercial backup utility which is SQL aware.  At a minimum, both an on-site and off-site backup strategy should be implemented.

Properly back up the transaction log. Fortunately, a full backup will not to truncate the transaction log. This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of using SQL, even among database administrators.  SQL does not truncate the transaction log when performing a full backup. Doing so would break your transaction log chain and remove your ability to do point in time restore, which is a central point of the full recovery model. If you are unsure, just switch to simple mode and take full backups.  This way SQL will manage the transaction log automatically.

Microsoft SQL Server does have the ability to recover from problems. Built into the application are several data recovery and data protection mechanisms designed to protect your business data in the event of hard drive or server failure. SQL Server stores all information and changes in the transaction log, which allows you to backup and restore it to any point in time, not just the time you last took a backup.

Microsoft SQL provides a powerful, yet flexible framework to store and access your business data. Unfortunately many companies purchase the software, install it and never look at the server again until it runs out of space or they realize that they need to restore to a backup and there isn’t one because the backup plan is no longer running.

Protect your investment.  ACE can assist with one-time or ongoing preventative maintenance of your SQL Server.  Initially, we will complete a Microsoft Dynamics GP SQL Installation and Configuration Audit where you will come away with a comprehensive document of your current installation and configuration as well as recommendations to become complaint with Microsoft recommendations.  From there we can set up a schedule that makes sense for your organization to review your server and complete preventative maintenance procedures to protect against data corruption and ensure that backups are running properly and are reliable.  Take the first step toward protecting and maintaining your software investment today and engage with us for an audit of your GP and SQL Installation.