September User Group Success Story

  September User Group Success Story: Reading Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Group Receives High Praise for Enthusiastic Leadership and Resilience.

   The Reading Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Group is a community-driven initiative that started in September 2022. It has quickly earned recognition for its enthusiastic leadership and resilience in the face of challenges. With a focus on promoting learning and networking among professionals in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform ecosystem, the group has grown steadily and gained a reputation for its commitment to its members!

   The group, which had its inaugural event in January 2023 at the Microsoft UK Headquarters in Reading, has since organized three successful gatherings, including a recent social lunch. They maintain a regular schedule of four events per year, each attended by an average of 20-25 enthusiastic participants who enjoy engaging talks and, of course, pizza.

   The Reading User Group's presence is primarily spread through LinkedIn and Meetup, with the support of the wider community. This thriving community is managed by a dedicated team consisting of Fraser Dear, Tim Leung, and Andrew Bibby, who serves as the main point of contact for the UK Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Groups.

   Andrew Bibby, an active figure in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform community, nominated this group due to his admiration for the Reading UK User Group's efforts. He emphasized their remarkable enthusiasm and success in running the group, noting that they navigated challenges such as finding venues with resilience and smiles on their faces. Despite being a relatively new group with 20-30 members, they have managed to achieve high attendance at their meetings.

   The group's journey began when Fraser Dear moved to the Reading area and realized the absence of a user group catering to professionals in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform space. He reached out to Andrew Bibby, who provided valuable guidance and support, allowing the Reading User Group to officially join the UK Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Groups community.

   One of the group's notable achievements was overcoming the challenge of finding a suitable venue. Initially, their "home" was the Microsoft UK HQ in Reading. However, due to office closures, they had to seek a new location with limited time. Fortunately, a connection with Stephanie Stacey from Microsoft led them to Reading College and its Institute of Technology. The college generously offered them event space and support, forging a mutually beneficial partnership where the group promotes the institution and encourages its members to support the next generation of IT professionals.

   With the dedication of its leadership team, the Reading Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Group is poised to continue growing and thriving! Their story exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives and the positive impact they can have on professional development and networking in the tech industry. As they move forward with their upcoming events and collaborations with Reading College, the group is likely to remain a valuable resource for professionals in the Reading area and beyond.