Navigating the IT World with Farai Sibanda: A Conversation on Professionalism and Adaptation

In the ever-evolving landscape of Information Technology (IT), professionals play a critical role in harnessing the power of technology to drive business success. Farai Sibanda, a seasoned IT expert, shares insights into his journey and experiences as an IT professional. In a candid conversation, Farai sheds light on the challenges, innovations, and skills required in this dynamic field.

Farai’s journey into the world of IT began at a young age. He recalls being the curious kid who loved to tinker with gadgets and explore their inner workings. This early fascination with technology laid the foundation for his career in IT. Farai pursued a degree in Information Systems and later completed a postgraduate diploma in management, setting the stage for his IT career.

“When I was young, I was that kid who would take things apart and try to figure out how they work. I’ve always had this curiosity around technology, which fuelled my passion for IT,” says Farai.

In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, staying current is a top priority for IT professionals. Farai emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Technology evolves rapidly, and IT professionals must keep up with the latest trends and innovations.

“Adaptability is crucial because technology changes at a rapid pace. You need to be someone who’s always willing to learn because you can never know enough in our industry,” Farai advises.

Staying updated requires actively seeking information from various sources. Farai regularly visits technology websites and blogs like Engadget, Windows Central, and The Verge. Additionally, he participates in industry-specific groups on LinkedIn to learn from peers and stay informed about new developments.

IT professionals often face high-pressure situations and tight deadlines. Farai shares a project from his experience where he and his team successfully managed time and resources to meet a critical deadline. In this case, they were tasked with rolling out a new software version for a retail client with over 40 stores.

Despite the challenges, including a tight timeframe and a previous consultant’s departure, Farai and his team worked diligently, including late-night shifts, to meet the client’s deadline. Their efforts paid off, and they successfully completed the project.

Innovation is a cornerstone of the IT field. Farai highlights a situation where he proposed and implemented an innovative solution to improve efficiency. In a retail environment with distributed databases, they faced challenges in manually updating systems across multiple stores.

To address this, Farai and his team developed an automated PowerShell script that streamlined the update process. This innovative solution significantly reduced the time required for system upgrades, demonstrating the power of technology to drive efficiency.

In the IT field, effective communication is crucial when dealing with non-technical team members and stakeholders. Farai emphasizes the need to speak the language of the audience and avoid overwhelming them with technical jargon.

“As a functional consultant, you deal with end-users and business stakeholders a lot. You have to learn to speak their language and convey technical information in a way they understand,” says Farai.

Given the sensitive nature of data handled in IT, data security is paramount. Farai follows best practices to ensure data security and integrity. He backs up all work data in the cloud, uses strong passwords, and implements multi-factor authentication for added security.

Farai Sibanda’s journey through the IT landscape showcases the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and effective communication in this dynamic field. His experiences reflect the ever-evolving nature of technology and the vital role IT professionals play in shaping the future of businesses. Farai’s commitment to innovation and data security exemplifies the dedication required to thrive in the world of IT.

Yolani Williams – Content Writer

Yolani Williams is the Content Writer at The CRM Team, with the role of producing relevant content such as blogs, articles, and social media copy. Yolani holds a qualification in Strategic Corporate Communication from the University of Johannesburg and has 3 years of relevant experience in the marketing field.

National Coding Week: Unveiling the Code Maestro: Jordan Masters

In the fast-paced world of coding and software development, there are few individuals who manage to stand out at a young age. Jordan Masters is one such exception, a talented coder whose achievements and projects have captured the attention of the tech community. With a passion for coding that began at an early age, Jordan has not only achieved remarkable success but has also made significant contributions to the field.

The Early Spark

Jordan Masters’ journey into the world of coding began at the tender age of sixteen. Introduced to programming through a program called Delphi, Jordan was instantly captivated by the endless possibilities it offered. He reminisces, “A friend of mine showed me how to use it, and we started building forms for Windows. I thought it was pretty cool, and I wanted to create something custom of my own.” Jordan’s early venture resulted in a pong game with a unique twist – power-ups. It was a time when even simple creations like Flappy Bird garnered immense popularity, making every coding achievement exhilarating.

A Self-Taught Trailblazer

While many aspiring coders opted for formal education, Jordan took a different path. He chose to be self-taught, a journey that had its own share of challenges. “Coming straight out of high school, I decided to do freelance development because I wanted to pursue coding instead of accounting. Not being able to attend university was not due to grades but a personal choice,” he shares. Jordan’s determination to educate himself led him to freelancing, where he tackled small projects for South African companies, often charging modest fees to gain experience. It was a win-win situation for both parties.

Coding Specialisations

Jordan’s coding prowess extends to two distinctive areas – integrations and web development. His knack for handling complex integrations, where one system communicates with another, has earned him accolades. He describes it as a puzzle where he acts as the middleman, translating systems and ensuring they work seamlessly together.

On the web development front, Jordan’s specialization includes technologies like Node.js and server-side form development. These skills, not common among all developers, have proven invaluable in certain projects.

Milestones Along the Way

Jordan’s coding journey is punctuated by significant milestones. He recalls his first project win as a moment of immense satisfaction. “Delivering a complex project like an OCR system that left the customer more than happy was a turning point,” he shares.

Participating in coding tournaments and hackathons, learning new systems, and transitioning into web development were other pivotal moments in Jordan’s journey. However, his most recent milestone, joining The CRM team stands out as a personal favourite. It marked his entry into collaborative coding, working alongside others who share his passion for delivering exceptional products.

Lessons Learned

Jordan’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring coders. Perseverance, resourcefulness, and a refusal to see obstacles as insurmountable walls are some of the key takeaways. “There are never brick walls; there are always workarounds,” he asserts.

Jordan Masters’ story is a testament to the boundless potential of self-taught coders. His relentless pursuit of excellence in coding, coupled with his unique approach to problem-solving, sets him apart as a true coding maestro in the making.

Hackathon Success: Rising to the Top

One of Jordan’s notable achievements is his success in hackathons, particularly those held at the Rage Expo. He reflects on this accomplishment, stating, “I think one achievement I like is the one with these hackathon coding challenges that you would have at the Rage Expo or that I think those ones are really cool and being able to come pretty much in the top ten of those challenges against others that have been doing this for 40 years more than you is something that felt really good.”

Jordan’s ability to excel in these intense coding competitions is a testament to his skill and dedication. He doesn’t stop there, mentioning, “Even with that being like in the top 15% in the world during these hackathons, because they’re global and now you have a lot of numbers and a lot of people that there are going up against, you know, but keeping calm and collected throughout those things and just trying to solve the problem and blocking out any other kind of noise. It was something I suppose that made me show my colours.”

Collaborative Success with the NHS Credit Union

While individual success is commendable, Jordan’s journey took an exciting turn when he collaborated on a project for the NHS Credit Union of the UK. He reflects on this experience, saying, “One of my favourite projects in delivering, which was my first project as collaborating with a team instead of 100% solo, was delivering a project to the NHS Credit Union of the UK. Because that was a massive, massive company. You know, it’s the NHS UK, and being able to meet them in Scotland and that and giving them something that they were happy with was very much an achievement.”

This project marked a significant milestone in Jordan’s career, demonstrating his ability to work effectively within a team and deliver outstanding results for a prominent organisation.

Impact on Career and Acknowledgements

When asked about the impact of his coding skills on his career, Jordan acknowledges the recognition he has received for his expertise despite his young age. He mentions, “Yeah, I think, for this question, one thing that seems to get brought up a lot by others is the experience that I have and the kind of technologies that I know from being so young, you know, being 23 and that I am somebody that they can consult with and sometimes help my colleagues is definitely a topic that gets brought up a fair bit.”

Moreover, Jordan’s critical thinking skills and his ability to tackle challenging issues have earned him the respect of his peers. He adds, “Also, I suppose the like solving a puzzle that was something that was eluding us for a while was definitely something one of my more favourite acknowledgements from fellow colleagues.”

Coding Principles: Efficiency and Problem Solving

When speaking about his coding principles, Jordan emphasizes the importance of efficiency and problem-solving. He explains, “First of all, you have to sit down and think: What is the best system that I can use that will give the outcome as much as possible with the littlest amount of time spent doing it?” This approach reflects his commitment to optimizing the development process and minimizing time spent on unnecessary tasks.

Moreover, Jordan stresses the significance of choosing solutions that are less likely to encounter problems down the line. He recognizes that constantly fixing and adjusting a project can be draining, stating, “Solving the initial problem is fun, but having to only touch it here a little bit and there a little bit is definitely not something that’s fun because you got your head inside of it and then that’s outside of it, and then you’re coming back a week later with your head inside of it. Now you solve a problem once. Finished and done.”

Unique Approaches to Coding Projects

One of Jordan’s unique approaches to coding projects involves breaking down complex requirements into manageable steps. He explains, “What I like to do is to first of all categorize them into steps. Then, do a whole brief overview of what is inside of step one. What is something that may be challenging? Try and do a test, a proof of concept for step one. Then move on to Step 2 and get a proof of concept for that, and then once you have all your proof of concepts for every step, then you can start with step one and actually create it and then Step 2 and create it.”

This method not only helps in managing complexity but also enables adjustments without causing ripple effects throughout the project. Jordan recognizes that flexibility in problem-solving is crucial to achieving success.

Favourite Project: The Automated Hearthstone Player

Among his many projects, Jordan fondly recalls one from his earlier years as his favourite. At just 19 years old, he embarked on creating a unique project: an automated player for the popular card game Hearthstone. This project required the integration of various technologies, including OCR (optical character recognition), game logic, and machine learning.

Jordan’s excitement about this project shines through as he shares, “What made this one of my more favourite projects was because of how complex the requirement was that I made for myself. You are working with a whole bunch of systems here, including OCR, game logic, and machine learning. I think that’s what makes it my favourite one.”

Future Aspirations: Continuing Education and Leadership

Looking ahead, Jordan has clear aspirations for his future in the coding field. He expresses his eagerness to pursue higher education, saying, “I am so motivated to go to university and thrive there.” He recognizes that formal education can complement his self-taught skills and provide a structured learning environment.

Additionally, Jordan aspires to become a senior professional in the field, emphasizing the endless learning opportunities within the tech industry. He acknowledges, “Becoming a senior is something that I don’t even think I could imagine how much knowledge there would be existing and how much further you could take it.”

Roehan Manders, Jordan’s manager, remarks, “Jordan Masters’ coding journey is a remarkable testament to the power of self-determination and a passion for problem-solving. His achievements, from conquering hackathons to collaborating with prestigious organizations like the NHS Credit Union, showcase his unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Furthermore, Jordan’s unique approach to coding projects, as highlighted by Mr. Manders, involves breaking them down into manageable steps and emphasizing efficiency, demonstrating his practical wisdom in the field. Jordan’s future aspirations, which include higher education and a desire to become a senior professional, underscore his dedication to continuous learning and growth.

“Jordan’s story,” Mr. Manders adds, “serves as a shining example of what can be achieved in the ever-evolving world of coding and software development. Aspiring coders can draw inspiration from Jordan’s journey, learning that determination and adaptability are keys to overcoming any coding challenge.”

Yolani Williams – Content Writer

Yolani Williams is the Content Writer at The CRM Team, with the role of producing relevant content such as blogs, articles, and social media copy. Yolani holds a qualification in Strategic Corporate Communication from the University of Johannesburg and has 3 years of relevant experience in the marketing field.

Breaking The Barriers with The Powerhouse

In the realm of professional success, there are few stories as inspiring as that of Kubeshni Govender (Kesh), the dynamic Head of Marketing at The CRM Team. Kesh’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of a woman breaking barriers in the competitive world of marketing in the IT Industry. Fondly referred to as “The Powerhouse,” Kesh’s story is a beacon of hope for aspiring young women who aim to carve their paths and make impactful contributions to both their careers and society. In this exclusive interview, Kesh shares her insights, challenges, and strategies that have shaped her remarkable journey.

Journey to the Pinnacle of Marketing Excellence in the IT Industry

Kubeshni embarked on her remarkable journey to the position of Head of Marketing at The CRM Team through a series of pivotal moments that shaped her career. Starting as an intern at Microsoft in 2019, she diligently absorbed knowledge and insights into Microsoft’s operations and partner expectations. This inside information proved invaluable as it allowed her to excel when working with partners. Kesh’s dedication was further demonstrated when she completed the Modern Marketing Digital Transformation program, earning recognition for her efforts. Her outstanding performance and impact didn’t go unnoticed, and Microsoft managers remembered her well. When the need arose for a Head of Marketing at The CRM Team, her previous achievements and impressive track record made her the top candidate as a recommendation from Microsoft. Kesh’s journey from intern to leader is a testament to the power of dedication and impact. She adds, “Working for The CRM Team made me realise that I made some bad career moves previously, but with those lessons, I cherish the opportunity I’ve received with The CRM Team, as they’ve shown me the definition of good company culture, a healthy work environment, exemplary teamwork energy, and the power of leadership excellence.” Kesh’s journey from intern to leader at age 23, is a testament to the power of dedication and impact.

Breaking Barriers: Challenges and Triumphs

The journey of Kubeshni Govender is not just a tale of professional growth, but a testament to her resilience in the face of personal challenges. As a young woman aiming for success in the IT industry, she encountered formidable obstacles that threatened to undermine her confidence and potential. The realm of marketing, which she chose to conquer, was not without its gender biases and misconceptions about age. However, Kesh’s determination to rise above these challenges and carve her unique path led her to become a powerhouse in her field.

Overcoming the perception that her age might hinder her success was a daunting task. The stereotypes that questioned her readiness for leadership roles or dismissed her as “too young” were discouraging. Kesh candidly acknowledges that these biases are prevalent, often coming from both male and female leaders. Despite the industry’s competitiveness, where women occasionally view one another as rivals, Kesh persevered. While creativity thrived within her, she found that other women could sometimes feel threatened by her potential. These experiences of being pulled down by mentors and colleagues served as pivotal moments that fuelled her determination to prove her worth.

Amid her professional challenges, Kesh faced deep personal struggles that pushed her to the edge. Battling past traumas from her childhood till the age of 23, she found herself at a breaking point, attempting suicide with a very narrow escape. Yet, emerging from this dark moment, Kesh decided to reshape her identity and take charge of her narrative. This transformation marked the birth of “The Powerhouse.”

Reclaiming her strength and forging a path to empowerment, Kesh co-founded two Non-Profit Organisations dedicated to uplifting others. One focused on providing support to those who had endured similar challenges and charitable initiatives, whilst the other sought to empower women in leadership roles. Kesh’s journey toward becoming “The Powerhouse” was not confined to her own growth; she actively contributed to the betterment of those around her.

Kesh’s status as “The Powerhouse” was solidified through her role as a speaker and advocate on platforms like ‘Future Females’, ‘Women Takes IT To The Stage’, ‘Rehoboth Radio’, ‘WITS University’, ‘Libex Marketplace’, ‘YAEI’ (Young African Entrepreneurs Institute), ‘SuperSport’ and more, where she shared her story of resilience and empowerment, leaving an indelible impact on countless women. Her tenacity, confidence, and unwavering belief in her abilities earned her the title that resonates today.

The term “powerhouse” isn’t just a label; it symbolizes the journey of a woman who transcended adversity and shattered stereotypes. Kubeshni Govender (Kesh) embodies the essence of strength, resilience, and empowerment, inspiring others to overcome barriers, find their voice, and become forces of positive change. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the face of the most daunting challenges, one can rise, thrive, and make an enduring impact.

Empowering Change through Nonprofit Initiatives

Kubeshni Govender’s dedication to making a positive impact in the world is not limited to her professional accomplishments. Beyond her career, she has channelled her passion into two remarkable nonprofit organisations that embody her commitment to social change and empowerment.

Govender, a true advocate for charitable causes, has always found joy in bringing smiles to people’s faces. This innate desire to give back was sparked by her friend’s charitable endeavours. Witnessing the impact of these efforts firsthand ignited a fire within her to contribute to the betterment of society.

The inception of Govender’s Non-Profit Organisations came about because of her involvement in various charitable initiatives. The first, Connected Humanity, was born out of a clothing drive that evolved into something much larger. Govender recognised the need to formalize her efforts, leading to the establishment of this NPO. She collaborated with like-minded individuals who shared her passion for making a difference.

Connected Humanity’s mission transcends borders. While it began in South Africa, its reach extends internationally. Through initiatives such as clothing drives, feeding programs, and contributions to animal shelters, Connected Humanity aims to touch lives across different communities. The organisation’s goal is to foster connections and create sustainable change.

The Geek Goals Foundation, Govender’s second initiative, is focused on the build of an e-learning platform and women empowerment. This foundation embodies her belief in the transformative power of education. The platform seeks to empower women holistically, from academia to mental health and emotional well-being. Govender envisions a wide array of courses, ranging from cooking and baking to marketing and science, allowing women to upscale their skills and build successful careers.

The key element of The Geek Girls Foundation is its ripple effect. Govender envisions a cycle of empowerment, where successful women on the platform not only uplift themselves but also become mentors, contributing to the growth of others. Govender’s vision aligns with creating a positive domino effect, as women inspire and support one another, fostering a community of success.

Govender’s philanthropic endeavours extend beyond her organisation’s scope, as she seeks partnerships with other companies working toward social change. Her commitment to solving pressing issues, such as defence and sustainability, highlights her holistic approach to creating a better world.

Balancing Act: Journey of Professional Excellence and Social Impact

In a world where juggling various commitments can feel like a daunting challenge, Kubeshni Govender stands as a prime example of someone who seamlessly balances her professional life, personal passions, and community initiatives. Govender has not only excelled in her career but has also made a tangible difference in the lives of others through her impactful Non-Profit Organisations.

The question often arises: How does one effectively contribute to both personal and societal betterment without compromising on quality or impact? Govender’s approach revolves around two key principles: time management and priority setting. Recognizing the significance of allocating time according to priorities, she emphasizes the importance of giving her all to each endeavour, even if it means seeking assistance when needed.

Navigating this demanding path is undoubtedly challenging, yet Govender believes that action speaks louder than hesitation. She emphasizes the importance of forward momentum and the futility of overthinking. To her, time is a valuable resource that should be maximized rather than squandered on deliberation. This perspective stems from her innate passion for her initiatives, allowing her to immerse herself fully in each endeavour.

Central to Govender’s success is her engagement with projects she genuinely enjoys. Her current role aligns seamlessly with her studies and experience, which empowers her to invest herself wholeheartedly. This synergy translates into sustained energy and enthusiasm, even when she’s dedicating time to her passion projects outside of work hours.

Govender acknowledges the vital role of a supportive network, both personally and professionally. She draws strength from her family, sister, and partner, who stands by her side, offering encouragement and understanding during demanding periods. This support system enables her to dedicate quality time to her loved ones, despite her busy schedule.

Govender’s journey underscores the significance of following one’s passion and embracing the challenges that come with it. Her ability to synchronize her professional ambitions with her philanthropic initiatives stands as a testament to her remarkable dedication and resilience. As she continues to navigate this delicate balance, Kubeshni Govender exemplifies the transformative power of determination, time management, and unwavering passion.

Empowering Change: Kubeshni Govender’s Impact on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

Kubeshni Govender’s journey serves as an inspiration to many, especially the younger generation who look up to her as a trailblazer and role model. Her influence is evident not only in her professional accomplishments but also in the positive transformation she has sparked within communities. A brief encounter with her presentation is enough to recognize her as a champion for change, making her a true role model for young women everywhere.

So, what advice does Kubeshni Govender have for those who aspire to follow in her footsteps? She advocates for self-belief as the cornerstone of success. Govender emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s unique qualities and being comfortable in one’s own skin. She encourages aspiring individuals to focus on their own journey, understanding that growth and transformation are constants. Govender underscores the significance of energy and passion, which radiate positivity and attract good energy in return.

In light of Women’s Month and the ongoing conversation about gender equality and empowerment, Govender’s accomplishments hold a crucial place. Her efforts extend beyond the surface-level understanding of women’s empowerment. Govender clarifies that her mission is not to uplift women at the expense of men but rather to establish a platform where equal opportunities are presented to all. Her initiatives aim to bridge the gender divide by promoting inclusivity, acknowledging that both men and women have unique qualities that contribute to progress.

Govender’s approach to gender equality involves creating spaces where women’s voices are heard and valued. Through her initiatives, she encourages women to be empowered and assertive, providing them with tools to tackle inequalities and advocate for themselves. Govender believes that fostering an environment where women are respected and appreciated leads to a collective empowerment that benefits society as a whole.

Words of Wisdom and Empowerment from the Powerhouse

“Don’t let your past define who you are, as you are the author of your own destiny. Never lose your voice to speak your worth, or regret your challenges and mistakes, as this is how the learning curve of growth shifts both personally and professionally. You cannot expect to grow where you feel complacent and comfortable, you got to get uncomfortable to experience the beauty of growth.”

Yolani Williams – Content Writer

Yolani Williams is the Content Writer at The CRM Team, with the role of producing relevant content such as blogs, articles, and social media copy. Yolani holds a qualification in Strategic Corporate Communication from the University of Johannesburg and has 3 years of relevant experience in the marketing field.

Lessons Learned from
Complex Dynamics Projects

Embarking on complex Dynamics projects can be a daunting task, as they often present unique challenges and complexities. As a Senior Dynamics 365 Developer, Nick Swart has encountered numerous obstacles throughout his career and gained valuable insights along the way. In this article, we delve into the challenges faced during these intricate projects and explore the lessons Nick has learned first-hand. By sharing real-life examples and offering practical advice, Nick aims to guide on effectively tackling similar challenges in the world of Dynamics 365 implementation.

Drawing from his extensive tenure at one of South Africa’s premier financial institutions, Nick offers a candid account of his professional journey and the insights gained from working with the bank.

Nick’s experience as a seasoned professional has exposed him to a wide range of difficulties, particularly in the realm of integration. Dynamics 365 implementations frequently involve the integration of various systems and data sources, which can introduce complexities that demand careful navigation. Nick shares specific instances where he faced integration challenges head-on and reveals the strategies, he used to overcome them.

“In a specific project involving a Dynamics 365 implementation, we faced integration challenges that required creative problem-solving. One significant hurdle was establishing effective communication between our system and the internal systems of the bank. Initially, we encountered rejections during direct calls to the services. To overcome this obstacle, we developed a customized solution that enabled successful communication with the bank’s backend systems.

 

Additionally, we encountered complexities during the integration process with certain third-party systems. Our objective was to seamlessly retrieve and send questionnaire data, ensuring smooth interactions and prompt responses. Through innovative approaches, we successfully addressed these challenges and achieved efficient communication and handling of the data.” Swart explains.

Nick Swart reflected on the experience and highlighted an important lesson learned. He emphasised the crucial role of technical expertise in overcoming integration challenges. Before this project, Nick had limited knowledge of integrating with other systems. However, as the team confronted and resolved the technical obstacles, he recognised the significance of exposure to diverse environments and experiences. He emphasised that a developer’s proficiency is not solely determined by academic degrees but rather by practical knowledge gained through real-world encounters.

Working on such a large-scale corporate project taught valuable lessons to the Senior Dynamics 365 Developer. The foremost lesson was understanding the pace of change within a massive organisation. Large-scale projects often require extensive time and effort before noticeable progress is achieved. Patience, persistence, and a long-term vision are essential qualities for success.

Additionally, collaboration and effective communication played a vital role. Learning how to work with a diverse team, including technical leads, testers, and various internal departments, was critical. Bridging the gap between technical and business aspects required active engagement and effective collaboration with stakeholders. Adapting to the corporate culture, building relationships, and understanding the internal dynamics facilitated smoother progress and more productive outcomes.

In complex Dynamics 365 projects, the involvement of multiple stakeholders with diverse priorities and requirements is another common challenge usually encountered. These stakeholders can include business executives, department heads, end users, IT personnel, and other relevant parties. Each stakeholder group brings their own set of expectations, goals, and concerns to the project, which can sometimes conflict with one another. For example, business executives might prioritise cost reduction and efficiency, while end users may prioritise user-friendliness and functionality. IT personnel, on the other hand, may prioritise system stability and security. Balancing these diverse priorities and requirements can be complex and requires a strategic approach to stakeholder management.

Nick Swart mentioned how stakeholder interactions were structured during his time as a Dynamics 365 Developer at the bank. As a developer, Nick’s primary focus was on getting the work done and delivering the required deliverables. He didn’t directly engage with business stakeholders and wasn’t allowed to interact with them to avoid potential issues. The communication channels followed a specific path. Any business-related matters or stakeholder inputs had to go through the product owner and the scrum master. If it involved support, it needed to be directed to the scrum master as well. This structured approach ensured that developers were shielded from direct interactions with stakeholders, allowing them to concentrate on their development tasks.

One significant advantage of this approach was that developers could maintain their focus and productivity. Excessive meetings and interruptions were minimised to maximise their ability to deliver results. There were limits set on the number of meetings developers were expected to attend.

Nick highlighted the importance of reducing interruptions and maintaining focus during the development process. Constantly switching between meetings and coding can hinder productivity, as it takes time to regain one’s rhythm and concentration after interruptions.

Quality assurance and testing play a crucial role in ensuring the success of Dynamics 365 projects. They help identify and address potential issues, validate the functionality of the system, and ensure that it meets the stakeholders’ expectations. In the context of complex projects, testing can present unique challenges that require careful consideration and effective strategies.

“I recall a situation in which I encountered significant testing challenges during a complex project. As per the golden rule, developers should never solely rely on their testing for sign-off.  I remember an instance when we as developers had to follow a well-structured process. After completing the development phase, we handed over the work to the dedicated test team. They rigorously tested the system based on the defined acceptance criteria and user stories. This approach allowed for an independent evaluation of the system’s functionality and identified any deviations or issues. Additionally, the test team employed automated testing using their scripts to validate new features and receive immediate notifications if something broke. By involving a dedicated test team and leveraging automated testing, we ensured thorough and reliable testing, addressing the challenges associated with quality assurance in complex Dynamics 365 projects. This experience taught me the significance of unbiased testing by individuals who are not involved in the system’s development, as they can uncover issues that the developer might overlook,” Nick elaborates.

In conclusion, embarking on complex Dynamics 365 projects requires a deep understanding of the challenges and complexities involved. Through his extensive experience as a Senior Dynamics 365 Developer, Nick Swart has gained valuable insights and practical knowledge that can guide others in tackling similar obstacles. From integration challenges to stakeholder management and quality assurance, Nick’s real-life examples and lessons learned to provide a roadmap for success in the world of Dynamics 365 implementation.

Mariana Becerra’s Journey: From Delivery Manager to Head of Operations
at The CRM Team

In a recent interview, Mariana Becerra, the newly appointed Head of Operations at The CRM Team, shared her thoughts and emotions about her promotion from Delivery Manager. Mariana expressed her immense honour and excitement, considering this new role as a significant milestone in her career. Although it was not a planned move on her career path, Mariana believes in seizing opportunities that come her way and making the most out of them.

Transitioning from the delivery department to heading operations, Mariana acknowledges the change and challenges that lie ahead. However, she exudes confidence in her abilities to effectively lead the operations team and drive the desired outcomes for the organisation. Mariana recognises the shoes she must fill, as the previous Head of Operations, had left a strong impact and was someone she admired within the organisation.

As the youngest member of the management team, Mariana sees her youthfulness as an advantage that brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. She believes that having a different viewpoint and a fresh pair of eyes can contribute significantly to problem-solving and driving positive change within the organisation. Mariana aims to combine her adaptability, enthusiasm, and drive to create a more dynamic and forward-thinking environment.

When asked about her goals and plans as the new Head of Operations, Mariana emphasised the importance of ensuring operational excellence and efficiency throughout the organisation. Building upon the legacy of her predecessor, she aims to streamline processes, optimise resource allocation, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Mariana also highlights the significance of cross-functional collaboration and communication to drive constructive collaboration among different departments and align operations with the company’s strategic goals.

In terms of introducing changes and innovative ideas to the management team, Mariana believes in adopting automation and AI solutions to enhance efficiency and productivity. Leveraging tools like Viva sales and Co-pilot can aid in effective communication, especially for team members who may excel in problem-solving but struggle with conveying information to clients. Mariana also emphasises the importance of encouraging an Agile and flexible approach to decision-making and problem-solving, empowering team members to contribute their ideas and drive innovation at all levels.

Reflecting on her transition from Delivery Manager to Head of Operations, Mariana acknowledges that she will miss the direct involvement in day-to-day delivery operations and the close relationships she built with her delivery team. However, she sees this promotion as an opportunity to have a broader impact, shape strategic initiatives, and contribute to the long-term growth of the company. While the challenges and responsibilities may be different, Mariana is eager to embrace them and looks forward to the journey ahead.

Mariana’s promotion to Head of Operations marks an exciting chapter in her career. With her determination, fresh perspectives, and commitment to excellence, she is poised to make a significant contribution to The CRM Team’s success. The entire organisation eagerly awaits the positive changes and achievements Mariana will bring in her new role.

From Passion to Action:
Celebrating Youth Day

Youth Day serves as a reminder of the importance of young people in this country. The impact of today’s young South Africans will be even more pronounced as they become the decision-makers of tomorrow. With the right guidance and support, they can shape our nation’s future and create a brighter tomorrow.

At The CRM Team, we greatly believe in our young people and strive to give them the tools and resources they need to succeed.

The latest youngster to join our team is Jordan Masters, a Junior Dynamics 365 Developer

To celebrate Youth Day, we chatted to Jordan to discuss his career thus far, in hopes to inspire the young people of South Africa to work towards their dreams.

Where it all started, a young boy with a dream.

From an early age, Jordan had already figured out which path he wanted to follow.

“As a top IT student in high school, I knew IT was a career I wanted to pursue.” Jordan began by developing games to play with his friends.

“I would take on passion projects whenever I found something interesting. One of the things I was particularly interested in was crypto. However, I did not have the funds to invest in it, so I created an app that pulled figures throughout the day of how much crypto was worth.” Proving how tech savvy Jordan is, this app would perform as a simulation without investing a cent.

Everyone who has accomplished something worthwhile was once a beginner.

Growing up in a gaming generation had a significant impact on Jordan. He would create bots that could help him level up in a game while at school. “As an example, we got into a game called Hearthstone. The bot I created would constantly take screenshots during the game, and I built an engine that could recognize these images, regardless of whether it was text or pictures. Then I would cut up the images and match them using colours. The bot would then take the images provided and I would instruct it on how to play how to play the game and move the mouse.”

“Those passion projects got me interested in coding and made me want to pursue it further,” states Masters.

After finishing matric, Jordan already had a plan for what he wanted to do and how he would do it. After watching the movie, The Intern, his desire was to be part of a bigger team where they could work on software development projects together. However, that dream was placed on hold as he had to embark on a solo journey. “I reached out to companies in small towns to develop software solutions for them at a very small fee.”

Masters describes how he could only charge these companies a few thousand rands for systems that would have cost them hundreds of thousands. Jordan merely wanted to improve his skills and become independent while navigating life outside of school.

“I wanted to make money to spend on myself instead of asking my parents,” he states.

It is Jordan’s ethics and drive that opened doors for him. Now that he is part of The CRM Team, Jordan’s next goal is to get a Bachelor of Computer Sciences qualification, so that one day he can rank up as a Senior Developer.

The choice is yours to modify your dreams or magnify your skills.

Jordan’s journey is evidence of where commitment, hard work and determination can take you. Here is a man who had a dream at an early age and worked faithfully to achieve his dream. From teaching himself coding and pursuing it at a young age, to actively seeking opportunities to execute his skill and help small companies with software development – Jordan is what every young person should strive to be like.

“The one thing I would suggest for a young person in South Africa is to find something in demand and see if you enjoy it. While it may be difficult for some to find something that they love, it is worthwhile to learn a skill that is in demand and learn to love it.

I would also advise the youth to not be afraid to get themselves out there. They must reach out to companies or individuals and offer their services to help those companies reach their goal while acquiring experience to help them in the future. Also remember, the most important thing is do not stress yourself out, life always works itself out.”

The youth of South Africa can learn a lot from this young man.