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The Power of Subscriptions in Power BI
Aug 29, 2024

The Power of Subscriptions in Power BI: Automating Data Insights Delivery.  In today's data-driven world, staying updated with the latest insights is crucial for informed decision-making. Power BI, Microsoft's powerful data visualization tool, offers a feature that streamlines this process: Subscriptions. This feature allows users to automate the delivery of reports and dashboards directly to their inbox, ensuring that they never miss out on critical updates. In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of using subscriptions in Power BI, how to set them up, and some best practices to get the most out of this feature.    Use of Subscriptions in Power BI:  Automation of Reporting:   Subscriptions in Power BI allow users to automate the delivery of reports and dashboards on a regular basis. Instead of manually logging into Power BI to check for updates, users can receive the latest data directly in their email. This automation saves time and ensures that important stakeholders are always informed.    Timely Insights: In fast-paced environments, timely insights are crucial. With subscriptions, you can schedule reports to be sent at specific times, ensuring that decision-makers have the most up-to-date information when they need it. For instance, a sales report can be scheduled to arrive first thing in the morning, giving the team a clear view of the previous day's performance.    Customization and Flexibility:   Power BI allows users to customize their subscriptions. You can choose to receive only specific pages of a report or a particular visual from a dashboard. This flexibility ensures that users get exactly what they need, without being overwhelmed by unnecessary information.    Easy Collaboration:   Subscriptions make it easier to share insights with a broader audience. Whether it's a daily sales report or a weekly performance dashboard, you can set up subscriptions for multiple recipients, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.    Setting up a New Subscription in Power BI:        Setting up a subscription in Power BI is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:  Firstly, open Power BI services.  Navigate to the Report or Dashboard: After that, open the report or dashboard you want to subscribe to. On the top menu, you’ll find an option labeled “Subscribe.” Click on it to open the subscription settings.        Configure the Subscription:  Title: Give your subscription a meaningful title so that it’s easily identifiable.  Add Recipients: You can add multiple email addresses if you want to share the report with others. Ensure that recipients have access to the report in Power BI to view the details.   Frequency: Choose how often you want to receive the report. Frequency has few options that you can select based on your requirements. After data refresh (Once daily): It means that the report will be shared once the dataset has been refreshed, but if the dataset is scheduled for multiple times a day, the subscription will only send it once per day. Hourly Daily. Weekly.   Monthly. Time:  Set a scheduled time for the subscription:  On the hour, or at 15, 30, or 45-minutes past. AM or PM. The time zone.  Page Selection: If subscribing to a report, you can select specific pages you want to include in the subscription.      Save and Activate: After configuring all settings, click “Save and Close.” Your subscription will now be active, and reports will be delivered as per the schedule. After you save it, you can edit the subscription, turn it on or off, or delete the subscription.    Considerations and limitations:  You can add up to 24 subscriptions per scorecard, each with unique recipients, times, and frequencies. You can subscribe to scorecards if you have a Pro license or PPU license, or if the scorecard is in a workspace backed by Premium capacity. You can subscribe to other team members if, in addition to the above, you have a Contributor, Member, or Admin role in that workspace. If the scorecard is hosted in a Premium capacity: You can subscribe to group aliases, whether they're in your domain or not. You can subscribe to external users. If the scorecard isn't hosted in a Premium capacity others must also have a Pro license. You can add other email addresses in the same domain to the subscription. You can't subscribe to a scorecard from within a Power BI org app.   Best Practices for Power BI Subscriptions:  To maximize the value of Power BI subscriptions, consider the following best practices: Keep the Audience in Mind: Ensure that the content of the subscription is relevant to the recipients. Tailor the reports to meet their specific needs and avoid overwhelming them with too much information. Regularly Review and Update Subscriptions: Business needs evolve, and so should your subscriptions. Regularly review the subscriptions to ensure they are still delivering the most relevant insights. Use Filters and Slicers Effectively: Power BI allows you to use filters and slicers to customize the data displayed in your reports. Make sure these are set appropriately in your subscriptions to deliver focused insights. Monitor Subscription Performance: Keep an eye on how the subscriptions are performing. Ensure that emails are being delivered on time and that the reports are generating the expected insights. Leverage Mobile-Friendly Reports: Since many users access their emails on mobile devices, ensure that the reports are mobile-friendly. Power BI offers responsive designs, so take advantage of this feature to improve accessibility.   Conclusion: Subscriptions in Power BI are a powerful tool for automating the delivery of insights, ensuring that decision-makers have timely and relevant data at their fingertips. By setting up and managing subscriptions effectively, you can enhance collaboration, improve decision-making, and keep your team aligned with the latest business trends. Whether you’re a business analyst, a data manager, or an executive, Power BI subscriptions can significantly streamline your reporting processes, allowing you to focus on making informed decisions based on the latest data.

Tech-Expo Ahmedabad, Gujarat 2024: Discover Future Technology and Innovations

Experience the Future: Why TechExpo Ahmedabad, Gujarat 2024 is a Must-Attend Event  Get ready for TechExpo Gujarat Ahmedabad 2024, one of the most exhilarating technology events of the year, happening on December 20-21, 2024, at Vigyan Bhavan, Science City, Ahmedabad. This year's event, also known as TechExpo Ahmedabad, Gujarat Tech Expot, and India Tech Expo, promises to be a hub of innovation, featuring the latest advancements and solutions in the tech world. MagnusMinds is thrilled to be a key exhibitor, presenting groundbreaking solutions in web development, database management, and Microsoft Business Intelligence (MSBI). Here’s why you should make a point to visit MagnusMinds at TechExpo India 2024.  What is TechExpo Gujarat Ahmedabad 2024?  TechExpo Gujarat Ahmedabad 2024 is a premier technology exhibition bringing together leading tech companies, startups, and industry experts under one roof. As a flagship event in India’s tech calendar, it will showcase cutting-edge technologies, innovative products, and breakthrough solutions. Attendees will have the chance to engage in live demonstrations, attend expert-led sessions, and participate in workshops and networking opportunities.  Why You Should Attend TechExpo Ahmedabad 2024  Uncover Emerging Trends: Get up close with the latest advancements and trends that are shaping the future of technology. Stay informed about what’s next in the tech world.  Learn from Industry Experts: Attend insightful talks and workshops led by top industry leaders and innovators. Gain valuable knowledge and perspectives from those shaping the future of technology.  Expand Your Network: Connect with a diverse array of professionals, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts. Build valuable relationships and explore new opportunities for collaboration.  Discover Innovative Solutions: Explore groundbreaking technologies and solutions that can transform your business operations. Find the tools and ideas that can drive your business forward.  Experience Live Demonstrations: Witness live demos of the latest technologies and solutions. See cutting-edge innovations in action and understand their practical applications.  Engage with Future Technologies: Experience firsthand the newest technological advancements and gain insights into the future trends that will impact your industry.  Connect with Key Industry Players: Network with top tech leaders, experts, and influencers. Engage in meaningful conversations and explore potential partnerships and collaborations.  MagnusMinds at TechExpo Gujarat Ahmedabad 2024  MagnusMinds is excited to showcase its expertise at TechExpo Gujarat Ahmedabad 2024. With over 15 years of experience in delivering high-quality IT solutions, we specialize in Microsoft technologies such as .NET, MS SQL, and Microsoft Business Intelligence (MSBI). Here’s what you can look forward to at our booth:  Discover Our Innovations: Explore our latest technological solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.  Meet Our Experts: Interact with our skilled team and industry thought leaders who are ready to share their knowledge and insights.  Experience Live Demos: Witness firsthand demonstrations of our advanced products and services.  Enhance Your Business: Learn how MagnusMinds' solutions can help optimize your business processes and drive growth.  Build Connections: Network with industry professionals and potential partners to uncover new opportunities.  Key Highlights of the TechExpo  Exhibition: Engage with a variety of tech exhibits and discover innovative solutions from leading companies.  Networking Opportunities: Participate in targeted meetings with investors, mentors, and industry peers.  Digital Transformation: Explore how digital technologies can accelerate innovation and enhance business success.  Knowledge Sessions: Attend sessions led by experts offering valuable insights and strategies for tech-driven growth.  Conclusion  TechExpo Gujarat Ahmedabad 2024 is your gateway to exploring the future of technology and innovation. By visiting MagnusMinds at this prestigious event, you'll gain access to cutting-edge solutions, expert knowledge, and valuable networking opportunities. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the most significant tech expos in India. We look forward to welcoming you and demonstrating how MagnusMinds can help elevate your business to new heights. 

Power BI Q&A: A Beginner’s Guide to Mastering Natural Language Queries
Aug 20, 2024

Welcome to the world of Power BI! If you're new to Power BI, you've probably heard about its powerful data visualization and analysis capabilities. Power BI Q&A, a natural language query tool that enables users to interact with their data using ordinary language, is a notable feature. In this beginner’s guide, we will walk you through the basics of Power BI Q&A and show you how to get started.  What is Power BI Q&A?  With Power BI Q&A, an easy-to-use feature, customers can ask straightforward questions in simple English regarding their data. Instead of manually creating complex queries or navigating through multiple dashboards, you can simply type or speak your questions and Power BI will generate visualizations based on your query. It's a significant change for users who want quick insights without requiring advanced technical skills.  Getting started with Power BI Q&A: 1. Setting up your data:   Before you can use Power BI Q&A, you need to have data in Power BI. Here's an overview of how to proceed:    Import your data: Load your data into Power BI from various sources such as Excel, SQL Server or online services.  Create dataset: Organize your data into datasets and and build data data models using appropriate relationships. Create a report: Create a basic report with some visualizations to make sure your data is structured and ready for Q&A.   2. Enabling Q&A in your report:  Once you've set up your report, follow these steps to enable it:   Open Power BI Desktop: Once your basic report is created, in Power BI Desktop, navigate to your Visualizations pane and search for the icon that looks like a speech bubble.     After adding this visual to your report, it will review your data and suggest some questions for you.  There are multiple ways to enable Q&A feature: From the Visualizations pane. (as shown above)  You can double click on the blank space of your Power BI page where you have added some visuals.  In the Insert tab, you have an option called “Buttons”, click the down arrow below that and you will be able to see the Q&A button, that will activate the same. Add a question and answer scene: Once you have Q&A visual on your screen, you can either create your own question by typing in the “Ask a question about your data” box or clicking on the pre-made questions below. The Q&A visual can also present more question options by selecting “Show all suggestions” at the bottom.  Configure Q&A: Click on the Q&A setting button for setup and training it to get best out of it. You may also need to provide some configuration to help Power BI better understand your data. 3. How to ask questions: Once Q&A is enabled you can start asking questions about your data. See how here:    View Results: Power BI will process your query and display the results in a separate visualization. If your question is clear, the system will generate specific and relevant charts or tables. 4. Improve your Q&A experience:  To get the most out of Power BI Q&A, consider these tips:  Use natural language: Power BI Q&A is designed to understand natural language, so ask your questions conversationally. You don’t have to be a technical person to ask questions, you can use very simple language that comes to your mind, and it will give you the desired output.   In the above example, you can clearly see that I have simply asked it a question in a very normal language and, asked it the visual in which I wanted the data to be represented, and Q&A immediately understood my question and gave the output accordingly.  Refine your query: If the initial results aren't what you expected, try rewriting your query or adding more contextual information. You can try with some different meaningful words so that it can have a better understanding of your question.  Train Q&A: You can train Q&A by providing questions and answers that you suggest, improving the system's understanding of your data. You can select the configuration (setting) button, and you will get a new window with multiple options.   In the above image you can see, you have a Teach Q&A option, in that you can train the Q&A by giving the input of any specific word to give it an understanding that the word refers to the specific column or any conditions, and once you select the desired column, you will be able see the output on the right side ”preview your result”, and if the output is correct you can save it. After saving it will always use the select column when you enter that word.    5. Customize Q&A for better results:  For more advanced users, Power BI allows customization to enhance Q&A functionality by:  Create Synonyms: Add synonyms used in your data to make the Q&A feature more flexible. To add synonymous, again go to the “Q&A setup” window, and you’ll find an option named synonymous.   In the listed dataset you can drop down the dataset you want to work with and give other meaningful names to the fields in that dataset.   Here you already have suggestions for each field present in the data set, you can directly select meaningful names from the suggestions, or you can enter other synonyms manually and you can use those names in the questions and the Q&A will refer to that same field. For example: Here in the above image, I have selected ”TotalAmt” column and given multiple names to it, and in the question if I say” sales” it will show me the values from ”TotalAmt” column. You can also turn off the extra fields that will not be in use.  Set Spelling Phonetically: This helps and provides correct details if your data contains names or words that users may misspell.   Review and refine: Continuously review how Q&A interprets the questions and refine the dataset or visualization to ensure accurate responses. After publishing the report to Power BI workspace, you can keep a track of the questions asked in the report by the end users and you can fix them if some user has asked or any fix is needed to the question, and you can also keep a track of questions frequently asked.  Suggest Questions: This helps to add a list of questions that are frequently asked by end users, that will be prompted when you open the Q&A.  Common Questions and Answers  Here are a few frequent questions you might ask using Power BI Q&A, along with the type of visualizations you might see:  Question: “What were the total sales last year?” Answer: Visualization: A bar chart or line graph showing sales trends over the year.  Question: “Which products had the highest revenue?”  Answer: Visualization: A pie chart or column chart displaying revenue distribution by product.  Question: “How many new customers were added this quarter?”  Answer: Visualization: A KPI card or a simple count displayed on a table.  Question: “Top 10 discounts given by order id”  Answer: Visualization: A matrix will be displayed with a list of discount column sorted in descending with order id.  Question: “Count of orders by year”   Answer: Visualization: A bar chart will be displayed with Years in Y-axis and count of order in X-axis.  Troubleshooting Tips  If Power BI Q&A isn't working as expected, consider these troubleshooting steps:  Check data quality: Make sure your data is clean and well-structured.  Update data model: Make sure your data model is up-to-date and properly configured.  Synonyms: Use the Synonyms feature to train your Q&A, give the fields multiple meaningful names that a normal user can use, and it will give you the accurate output.  Consult the documentation: Refer to Power BI's official documentation for detailed troubleshooting and guidance.    Conclusion  Power BI Q&A is a powerful tool that simplifies data analysis by allowing you to interact with your data using natural language. By following this beginner's guide, you should now have a basic understanding of how to set up and use Q&A in Power BI, the information we just discussed. As you gain more experience, you can explore advanced features and customization options to further enhance your data exploration capabilities.  Feel free to experiment with different queries and visualizations, and don't hesitate to seek additional resources or community support as you continue your journey with Power BI. If you need further training or specialized assistance with Power BI Q&A, contact us for professional support and services. Happy querying! 

Top 9 Software Development Trends to Watch in 2024 | MagnusMinds Blog
Aug 12, 2024

The software development industry is rapidly changing, with key trends shaping the landscape in 2024. Staying informed on these trends is important for professionals and businesses to stay competitive and adapt to technological advancements. Despite financial pressures from inflation, businesses continue to invest in digital transformation initiatives to drive growth and efficiency. In our blog, we explore the top 9 software development trends in 2024, from AI advancements to emerging technologies. Native app development is being replaced by progressive web apps, and low code and no code platforms are gaining popularity. Technologies like IoT, augmented reality, blockchain, and AI are leading the way in software advancements. Stay updated with MagnusMinds blogs to learn about generative AI, quantum computing, and other industry innovations. Keep up with the latest trends in software development to stay ahead in the market. Discover how custom software development can benefit companies and explore upcoming industry developments. Stay informed and explore the top software industry trends for 2024. Generative AI Transforms Development Practices  Generative AI, such as OpenAI's GPT-4, is transforming modern IT development by revolutionizing code generation, debugging, and design. It is no longer just limited to chatbots but has become an essential tool for enhancing development processes. These advanced models are enhancing natural language processing, automating repetitive tasks, creating complex algorithms, and even generating codebases from simple descriptions. With the integration of generative AI into everyday development tasks, developers can streamline workflows, focus on higher-level problem-solving, and make significant strides in the field of IT development. OpenAI's GPT-4 and similar technologies are at the forefront of this AI-powered development revolution.  Example: GitHub Copilot, powered by GPT-4, speeds up development by suggesting code snippets and automating repetitive tasks. For example, a developer writing a Python script for data analysis can use Copilot to create complex functions or handle API integrations with minimal manual effort. Tools like Copilot are changing how code is written, as it can suggest entire functions or snippets based on the code context. This feature expedites development, reduces coding errors, and allows developers to focus on high-level design. OpenAI's Codex is another powerful tool that translates natural language descriptions into code, making it easier to create web forms and other applications quickly.  Quantum Computing: Practical Implications on the Horizon  Quantum computing is advancing rapidly, promising to revolutionize problem-solving methods across industries. While widespread use of full-scale quantum computers is not yet common, progress is evident in quantum algorithms and hybrid models. The year 2024 is expected to bring significant advancements in quantum computing, with practical applications becoming more prominent. Developers will need to learn quantum programming languages to stay ahead of developments. Despite still being experimental, quantum computing is beginning to make a tangible impact in fields such as cryptography and simulations. Transitioning from theoretical research to practical use, quantum computing is on the brink of major breakthroughs.  Example: IBM’s Quantum Hummingbird is a 127-qubit processor pioneering practical quantum computing for drug discovery and material science. By simulating molecular interactions at a quantum level, breakthroughs in creating new pharmaceuticals or materials are on the horizon. On the other hand, D-Wave’s Advantage, a quantum annealing system, is being utilized by companies like Volkswagen to optimize traffic flow in urban areas. Leveraging quantum computing to process complex traffic patterns, Volkswagen aims to enhance city traffic management and overall transportation efficiency.  Cybersecurity: Advanced Threat Detection and Response  Cybersecurity is a top priority in IT development due to the growing sophistication of cyber threats. In 2024, we expect to see more emphasis on advanced threat detection, zero-trust security models, and comprehensive encryption techniques. Companies are investing in AI-powered systems for detecting threats, while developers are integrating robust security measures and staying informed about the latest practices and compliance requirements. With cyber threats constantly evolving, cybersecurity measures are also advancing to keep up. Regulatory compliance will drive the need for stronger security measures across all development levels to protect against these threats.  Example: Google's BeyondCorp is a zero-trust security model that eliminates traditional perimeter-based security measures by continuously verifying user and device identity before granting access. This approach improves security by considering threats from both inside and outside the organization. Meanwhile, Darktrace's Antigena is an autonomous response technology using machine learning to detect and respond to cybersecurity threats in real-time. For example, it can identify unauthorized network activity and promptly act, like isolating affected systems, to prevent further damage.  Edge Computing Enhances Real-Time Data Processing  Edge computing is gaining traction by moving computational power closer to data sources, reducing latency and improving real-time processing. It is essential for applications needing fast data processing by shortening data travel distance. This technology enhances performance for IoT, autonomous vehicles, and smart cities. To adapt to this shift, developers should focus on optimizing software for edge environments and efficiently managing distributed data. Edge computing is transforming data processing by bringing computation closer to the source, benefiting applications that require real-time data processing. As more companies embrace this trend, developers must optimize applications for decentralized environments and manage data across distributed systems effectively.  Example: Edge computing is used in smart cities to analyze data from surveillance cameras in real-time, enabling quick responses to traffic violations or security threats. For example, Cisco's Edge Intelligence platform helps businesses deploy edge computing solutions for real-time analysis of data from IoT sensors, such as predicting equipment failures in manufacturing settings to prevent downtime and improve efficiency.  Low-Code and No-Code Platforms Foster Rapid Development  Low-code and no-code platforms are revolutionizing application development, allowing non-developers to easily create functional software. These platforms are democratizing the process, empowering users with limited coding skills to build their own applications. As we look ahead to 2024, these platforms will continue to evolve, offering more advanced features and integrations. This advancement will streamline development processes and enable a wider range of individuals to contribute to IT solutions. Developers may increasingly collaborate with these platforms to enhance their capabilities and create tailored solutions for businesses.  Example: Low-code/no-code platforms like Microsoft PowerApps, Bubble, and AppGyver empower business users to create custom applications without advanced programming skills. For instance, PowerApps and Bubble enable a marketing team to develop a tailored CRM solution without IT support. AppGyver offers a no-code environment for building complex mobile and web apps, such as a healthcare provider designing a custom patient management system for better service delivery and streamlined information handling. check full details about PowerApps in our Detailed Guide.  Green IT: Driving Sustainable Practices  Sustainability is becoming a key priority in IT development, with a particular emphasis on green IT practices to reduce environmental impact. This includes energy-efficient data centers, sustainable hardware, and eco-friendly coding techniques gaining popularity. Companies are placing a greater importance on incorporating sustainability into their IT strategies to decrease their carbon footprint and uphold environmental responsibility. As a result, developers are being urged to consider the ecological implications of their work and integrate sustainable practices into their projects. This shift towards green IT is essential for minimizing environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly operations in the IT industry.  Example: Tech giants like Google and Microsoft are leading the way in adopting energy-efficient technologies in data centers. Google has committed to operating all data centers on renewable energy, setting a high standard for the industry. Microsoft's Project Natick is developing underwater data centers that use natural cooling properties, reducing energy consumption. These efforts are reducing carbon footprints and creating a more sustainable IT infrastructure.  5G and Emerging 6G Technologies  The roll out of 5G networks is boosting connectivity, speeding up data transfer, and introducing new applications. Research is already in progress for 6G technology, which is expected to bring further advancements. In 2024, we can anticipate significant progress in 5G technology and exploration of 6G possibilities. These advancements will fuel innovation in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and the Internet of Things (IoT). The expansion of 5G networks is revolutionizing connectivity by supporting fast data speeds and reducing latency. This year, we are witnessing wider acceptance of 5G, driving innovations in AR, VR, and IoT. Additionally, ongoing research into 6G technology is likely to lead to even more advanced connectivity solutions. Developers should stay informed about these developments to harness new opportunities and create applications that can fully utilize next-generation networks.  Example: The deployment of 5G networks has led to the rise of real-time interactive augmented reality (AR) applications like gaming and remote assistance. Researchers are now looking into 6G technology to achieve even faster speeds and lower latency, potentially transforming fields like autonomous driving and immersive virtual reality experiences. Additionally, Qualcomm's Snapdragon X65 5G modem allows for high-speed data transfer and low latency, enabling applications such as high-definition live streaming and AR experiences. The development of 6G may further advance technologies like holographic communication and immersive VR environments.  Enhanced User Experience (UX) with AI and Personalization  User experience (UX) is vital, focusing on personalized and intuitive interfaces. The evolution of UX emphasizes personalization and intelligent design, aided by AI advancements. In 2024, IT development will prioritize creating personalized experiences across digital platforms. AI-driven insights will enable developers to customize applications and services based on individual user preferences and behaviors. Enhancing engagement and satisfaction, developers are increasingly tailoring experiences to user preferences. UX design is becoming more data-driven, emphasizing understanding user behavior to create meaningful interactions. Exceptional user experiences, focusing on personalization, remain a top priority in the industry.  Example: Streaming services like Netflix utilize machine learning algorithms to analyze user preferences and habits, offering personalized content recommendations for an improved user experience. Similarly, Adobe Experience Cloud employs AI technology to personalize content and optimize user experiences on various platforms, enhancing user engagement and satisfaction through tailored recommendations and targeted marketing strategies.  Blockchain Applications Beyond Financial Transactions  Blockchain technology is expanding beyond cryptocurrency into various industries. By 2024, it will be prominently used in supply chain management, identity verification, and smart contracts. The transparency and security features of blockchain make it a valuable tool for businesses. Streaming services like Netflix utilize machine learning to analyze user habits and provide personalized content recommendations, improving user satisfaction. This personalized approach ensures that the content offered matches individual preferences and viewing history. Blockchain developers need to understand its principles and explore its potential in different scenarios outside of financial transactions.  Example: Blockchain is utilized in supply chain management to trace product origins, enhance transparency, and mitigate fraud. IBM and Walmart employ blockchain to monitor goods from production to consumption, improving food safety. Everledger, on the other hand, utilizes blockchain to track diamonds and high-value items, creating an unchangeable record of their journey. This ensures transparency and helps in preventing fraud within the diamond supply chain, offering consumers accurate information regarding their purchases.  Advancements in Remote Work and Collaboration Tools  The remote work trend is advancing with upgraded tools for collaboration and project management. Companies are investing in enhanced tools for productivity and teamwork. Developers are creating more integrated, secure, and efficient solutions like virtual workspaces, collaborative coding environments, and project management tools. The goal is to design solutions that enable seamless communication and productivity, regardless of location.  Example: The remote work trend is growing with improved collaboration and project management tools. Companies are investing in productivity and teamwork tools. Developers are creating secure, efficient solutions like virtual workspaces and collaborative coding environments to enhance communication and productivity.  Conclusion  The software development landscape in 2024 is characterized by rapid advancements and transformative technologies such as generative AI, edge computing, cybersecurity, and sustainability. Staying informed about these trends is crucial for IT professionals and organizations to leverage new technologies effectively and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Adapting to these changes will be key for developers to push the boundaries of what's possible and shape the future of IT. By embracing innovations like generative AI, quantum computing, and advanced cybersecurity, the industry is presented with new opportunities for growth and progress. Keeping an eye on these trends throughout the year will ensure that you stay current and position yourself for future success. Stay tuned for more insights and updates as we navigate these exciting developments together. 

Mastering SSIS Data Flow Task Package
Jul 27, 2020

In this article, we will review how to create a data flow task package of SSIS in Console Application with an example. Requirements Microsoft Visual Studio 2017 SQL Server 2014 SSDT Article  Done with the above requirements? Let's start by launching Microsoft Visual Studio 2017. Create a new Console Project with .Net Core.  After creating a new project, provide a proper name for it. In Project Explorer import relevant references and ensure that you have declared namespaces as below: using Microsoft.SqlServer.Dts.Pipeline.Wrapper; using Microsoft.SqlServer.Dts.Runtime; using RuntimeWrapper = Microsoft.SqlServer.Dts.Runtime.Wrapper;   To import above namespaces we need to import below refrences.   We need to keep in mind that, above all references should have same version.   After importing namespaces, ask user for the source connection string, destination connection string and table that will be copied to destination. string sourceConnectionString, destinationConnectionString, tableName; Console.Write("Enter Source Database Connection String: "); sourceConnectionString = Console.ReadLine(); Console.Write("Enter Destination Database Connection String: "); destinationConnectionString = Console.ReadLine(); Console.Write("Enter Table Name: "); tableName = Console.ReadLine();   After Declaration, create instance of Application and Package. Application app = new Application(); Package Mipk = new Package(); Mipk.Name = "DatabaseToDatabase";   Create OLEDB Source Connection Manager to the package. ConnectionManager connSource; connSource = Mipk.Connections.Add("ADO.NET:SQL"); connSource.ConnectionString = sourceConnectionString; connSource.Name = "ADO NET DB Source Connection";   Create OLEDB Destination Connection Manager to the package. ConnectionManager connDestination; connDestination= Mipk.Connections.Add("ADO.NET:SQL"); connDestination.ConnectionString = destinationConnectionString; connDestination.Name = "ADO NET DB Destination Connection";   Insert a data flow task to the package. Executable e = Mipk.Executables.Add("STOCK:PipelineTask"); TaskHost thMainPipe = (TaskHost)e; thMainPipe.Name = "DFT Database To Database"; MainPipe df = thMainPipe.InnerObject as MainPipe;   Assign OLEDB Source Component to the Data Flow Task. IDTSComponentMetaData100 conexionAOrigen = df.ComponentMetaDataCollection.New(); conexionAOrigen.ComponentClassID = "Microsoft.SqlServer.Dts.Pipeline.DataReaderSourceAdapter, Microsoft.SqlServer.ADONETSrc, Version=14.0.0.0, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=89845dcd8080cc91"; conexionAOrigen.Name = "ADO NET Source";   Get Design time instance of the component and initialize it. CManagedComponentWrapper instance = conexionAOrigen.Instantiate(); instance.ProvideComponentProperties();   Specify the Connection Manager. conexionAOrigen.RuntimeConnectionCollection[0].ConnectionManager = DtsConvert.GetExtendedInterface(connSource); conexionAOrigen.RuntimeConnectionCollection[0].ConnectionManagerID = connSource.ID;   Set the custom properties. instance.SetComponentProperty("AccessMode", 0); instance.SetComponentProperty("TableOrViewName", "\"dbo\".\"" + tableName + "\"");   Reinitialize the source metadata. instance.AcquireConnections(null); instance.ReinitializeMetaData(); instance.ReleaseConnections();   Now, Add Destination Component to the Data Flow Task. IDTSComponentMetaData100 conexionADestination = df.ComponentMetaDataCollection.New(); conexionADestination.ComponentClassID = "Microsoft.SqlServer.Dts.Pipeline.ADONETDestination, Microsoft.SqlServer.ADONETDest, Version=14.0.0.0, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=89845dcd8080cc91"; conexionADestination.Name = "ADO NET Destination";   Get Design time instance of the component and initialize it. CManagedComponentWrapper instanceDest = conexionADestination.Instantiate(); instanceDest.ProvideComponentProperties();   Specify the Connection Manager. conexionADestination.RuntimeConnectionCollection[0].ConnectionManager = DtsConvert.GetExtendedInterface(connDestination); conexionADestination.RuntimeConnectionCollection[0].ConnectionManagerID = connDestination.ID;   Set the custom properties. instanceDest.SetComponentProperty("TableOrViewName", "\"dbo\".\"" + tableName + "\"");   Connect the source to destination component: IDTSPath100 union = df.PathCollection.New(); union.AttachPathAndPropagateNotifications(conexionAOrigen.OutputCollection[0], conexionADestination.InputCollection[0]);   Reinitialize the destination metadata. instanceDest.AcquireConnections(null); instanceDest.ReinitializeMetaData(); instanceDest.ReleaseConnections();   Map Source input Columns and Destination Columns foreach (IDTSOutputColumn100 col in conexionAOrigen.OutputCollection[0].OutputColumnCollection) {     for (int i = 0; i < conexionADestination.InputCollection[0].ExternalMetadataColumnCollection.Count; i++)     {         string c = conexionADestination.InputCollection[0].ExternalMetadataColumnCollection[i].Name;         if (c.ToUpper() == col.Name.ToUpper())         {             IDTSInputColumn100 column = conexionADestination.InputCollection[0].InputColumnCollection.New();             column.LineageID = col.ID;             column.ExternalMetadataColumnID = conexionADestination.InputCollection[0].ExternalMetadataColumnCollection[i].ID;         }     } }   Save Package into the file system. app.SaveToXml(@"D:\Workspace\SSIS\Test_DB_To_DB.dtsx", Mipk, null);   Execute package. Mipk.Execute(); Conclusion In this article, we have explained one of the alternatives for creating SSIS packages using .NET console application. In case you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.   RELATED BLOGS: Basics of SSIS(SQL Server Integration Service)

Business Benefits of Negative Reviews

So, you’ve somehow received a couple of bad online reviews. Is your business doomed? Certainly not! Even big brands have had their fair share of angry outpour from disgruntled customers and survived. While larger companies’ reputations can sustain a few blows without actually collapsing, small businesses can’t rely on the benefit of the doubt to amortize customers’ wrath as effectively. But you should actually be grateful for bad reviews, as they help your business grow. one out of twenty unhappy customers complain, and the other 19 leave without telling you “why.” This gives you no opportunity to learn from your mistakes or fix what’s broken. In fact, most brands hear feedback from less than one percent of their customer base. But we know that customer feedback is absolutely critical, and that we need to be gathering it at the right times and places. Negative feedback is like pain – it’s a warning that there’s something wrong and that you should do something about it. Without bad reviews, you’d be resting on your laurels while your business is crumbling and your customers fleeing. Here’s how you can benefit from these negative experiences and turn them into wins. 1. Own Your Mistakes The worst thing you can do upon receiving a bad review is turning a blind eye, trying to cover the problem up, or being hostile towards the customer who complained. Any of these approaches can hurt your reputation more than the negative customer experience itself. Even if the review is exaggerated and vicious, you shouldn’t try to “get even.” It’s crucial to always be polite, civil, and promise that you’ll look into the matter as soon as possible. By taking responsibility, you show that you’re willing to change and improve your customer experience, and owning up to your mistakes can be excellent PR. Texaco, one of the world’s biggest petroleum companies, was sued by former employees and accused of racial discrimination back in 1994. Instead of offering them hush money, Texaco took a totally different approach. The company’s CEO publicly apologized, while executives travelled to every office location to apologize in person. Finally, hiring an African-American-owned advertising agency to do its upcoming campaign was the crowning touch. 2. Show Your Customers You Care Business lost $75 Billion in 2018 because of poor customer service. If you ignore customer complaints, you’ll paint your business in a negative light. But if you carefully monitor what your customers are saying both to your customer service reps and in their online reviews, and respond to them, you show that their opinion matters. There’s another stat which illustrates the importance of handling customer complaints properly – people who have their issue solved during the first interaction with a company are two times more likely to purchase from the same. In order to ensure top-notch customer service, it’s a good idea to implement chatbots. These smart algorithms are like first responders in case of an emergency , and unlike your customer service reps who can’t be online and available 24/7, chatbots can: and they can offer troubleshooting and answers to some of the most common questions. They can collect your customers’ complaints and help you identify the problem. 3. Respond in a Timely Manner In 2014, General Motors faced a huge crisis after faulty ignition switches caused 124 deaths. The company had to recall 2.6 million vehicles over the first three months of the year. It would be an understatement to say that their customers were unhappy. Many of them took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, and G.M.’s social media team jumped in to save the day and the company’s reputation. Not only did the company respond to each and every message across different social media channels, it also provided their customers with immediate help by paying for replacement vehicles and covering the other expenses incurred as a result of the issues they had with their cars. But in order to be able to respond in a timely manner, you need to be aware of an upcoming PR disaster, and social listening is a strategy which allows you to track every mention of your brand, products, and keywords on different channels and spot the issue before it snowballs into a full-fledged PR armageddon. 4. Encourage Online Reviews Now that we’ve established that you won’t be able to save yourself from negative feedback (nor should you try to do so), it’s important to mention that you can always balance the scales with positive reviews. Many companies ask for online reviews directly and encourage their happy users to share their experiences with others. This can partially neutralize any negative review that throws shade on your business. Promote your customers at right time and place, within your app to boost five-star ratings. You can solicit positive reviews from people who love your app and intercept (and stop) negative feedback from unhappy customers. 5. Correct Your Mistake and Promote Changes Once you fix product bugs or resolve a particular issue that a customer had with your company, you shouldn’t be silent about it. Revisit all the negative reviews, describe what you’ve done to fix things, and encourage your unhappy customers to see it for themselves. To illustrate the point, let’s talk about another automotive behemoth who was involved in a scandal. In 2010, Toyota had to recall 8.8 million vehicles due to safety defects. Although the company’s initial response was slow and clunky, it managed to justify its previously impeccable reputation in terms of customer service and product quality by fixing the issue and offering extended warranties. Apart from that, the company’s marketing strategy revolved around its attempts to fix issues and convinced its customers that they didn’t have a reason to worry about safety. As you can see, negative customer experiences and bad online reviews don’t have to turn into a kiss of death. If you leverage the right problem-solving strategies and an honest and responsible approach, you can even benefit from the wrath of an occasional unhappy customer.  

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