Betatalks the podcast Betabit

In this episode, we talk with Henk Boelman, a senior cloud advocate at Microsoft. We discuss recent advances in artificial intelligence. Henk explains how models like GPT have made AI more accessible through natural language interfaces.  We delve into the rapid progression of the field and predict capabilities in multi-modal input and conversation. We discuss whether dedicated services will evolve independently or be replaced by generalized models. Testing and monitoring deployed AI is crucial, and we explore the need for more professionals in this area. Finally, we raise ethical issues surrounding the understanding of AI decisions.

About this episode, and Henk Boelman in particular: you can find Henk on X @hboelman and GitHub. You can also take a look at his website. And don't forget to check out the 'AI community day' on the 14th of May 2024 in DeFabrique in Utrecht. Get your tickets now!

About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and join us on our Betatalks Discord channel

In this episode, we talk with Mark Heath. He is a software architect at NICE Systems, a Pluralsight author, and a Microsoft MVP. In this podcast, we discuss some of the key challenges involved with microservices development and newer technologies that aim to address those challenges, such as Aspire and Dapr. We also touch upon concepts like sidecar patterns and how starting with a monolithic architecture first before extracting services can be beneficial. The use of serverless technologies through Azure Functions was examined in depth. Specifically how durable functions can help solve issues around workflow orchestration that often arise in microservices architectures. Additionally, we explore topics such as optimizing performance at scale in multi-tenant environments and audio programming using .NET. Lastly, we discuss the evolution of the Azure Functions programming model and stress the importance of understanding infrastructure implications when developing cloud-based applications.

About this episode, and Mark Heath in particular: you can find Mark on X @Mark_heath and GitHub. You can also take a look at his website.
About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and join us on our Betatalks Discord channel 

In this episode, we talk with Hanna Engel. She is an Azure Cloud Solutions Specialist at Azelis. We dive into how quantum computers operate differently than classical computers using qubits and probabilities. This makes them well-suited for problems in AI, simulation, and optimization. Some companies are already pairing quantum with AI for applications like optimizing battery production. While challenges remain, experts predict continued exponential progress could enable a million qubit computer within five years. Once more widely available, entirely new uses may emerge across industries like healthcare. We cover the current capabilities and the long-term potential of quantum computing to transform fields. We also discuss issues like privacy, security, and responsible development.

About this episode, and Hanna Engel in particular: you can find Hanna on LinkedIn. 
About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and join us on our Betatalks Discord channel 

In this episode, we talk with Yannick Reekmans. He is a managing partner and Microsoft cloud solution architect at Qubix. We talk about Microsoft Power Platform and AI. We discuss various topics, including the challenges of using Copilot due to data security and privacy concerns, limitations of security tools in Power Platform, embracing constructive criticism in software development, and differences in introversion and social energy levels. We also discuss the potential impact of generative AI on low-code development and the importance of control and quality when using AI-powered Copilots.

About this episode, and Yannick Reekmans in particular: you can find Yannick on X @yannickreekmans or LinkedIn. You can also read all his interesting blog posts on his website.
About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and join us on our Betatalks Discord channel 

In this episode, we speak with Jessey Johnson, a Cloud Solution Architect and an Advanced Cloud Expert (ACE) at Microsoft, who serves as a bridge between business, IT, and technology. We delve into topics such as digital transformation, the evolving landscape of Azure, and address barriers to inclusion in the tech industry. Jessey shares her journey in assisting Dutch organizations to securely adopt cloud services and what ignited her passion for information security compliance. We explore Microsoft's emphasis on developing user-friendly security tools and discuss how cultural biases can hinder underrepresented groups. 

About this episode, and Jessey Johnson in particular: you can find Jessey on LinkedIn. 
About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and join us on our Betatalks Discord channel 

In this special episode, Rick interviews Oscar. We talk about Oscar’s work at Virtual Vaults. For the people who don’t know, Oscar is the CTO of Virtual Vaults, a platform for M&A transactions. Mergers & Acquisitions, that is. We discuss the development of their SaaS platform, emphasizing security and compliance. Oscar highlights their focus on constant improvement through new features, evolving technologies, and an agile culture. He outlines their plans for the coming year, which include improving reliability, security, and developer experience through initiatives like moving to Azure Container Apps. We also cover topics like cloud adoption, software architectures, database choices, and lessons learned over the company's evolution.

About this episode, and Oscar van Tol in particular: you can find Oscar on @oscarvantol on X and GitHub. 
About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and join us on our Betatalks Discord channel