Business Focus

First Focus

If you’re part of a mid-sized organization with 50 to 300 people, this podcast is for you. Business Focus is a dedicated platform for exploring valuable tools in the business world, offering top-quality insights for anyone eager to enhance and push their professional performance or that of their team to the next level. Stay updated with the latest trends and updates alongside elite professionals from diverse sectors and industries, ensuring you're always at the forefront of innovation.

  1. 20 ОКТ.

    Mistakes to Avoid When Building Your Finance Tech Stack

    In this episode of Finance Focus, host Brendan Ritchie is joined by Ross Sardi (CEO, First Focus) and Jared Morris (CEO & Founder, Balden) to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing modern finance teams — choosing the right technology stack.Together they explore why so many Australian businesses are frustrated with legacy ERPs, what’s driving the shift to modular, cloud-based finance tools, and how to build a curated, best-in-class tech stack that keeps your data accurate, decisions fast, and teams happy.💬 Key discussion points:- Why most ERPs create more problems than they solve- The real cost of manual processes and disconnected tools- How process mapping can transform your finance operations- What an ideal modern finance stack looks like (and the tools behind it)- The importance of single-source data entry for real-time reporting- How Australian mid-market businesses can build smarter, scalable finance systems📈 Whether you’re a CFO, COO, or finance leader in a growing Australian organisation, this episode will help you modernise your finance systems.🕒 Key Chapters0:00 Intro – Welcome to Finance Focus: Building the Right Finance Tech Stack0:35 The Problem with Current Finance Tools – Frustration, manual work, and gut feel decisions1:45 No Single Source of Truth = Slow or Bad Decisions – Why data trust is everything3:50 The ERP Headache – Why so many businesses are ditching legacy systems6:20 The Shift to Best-in-Class Apps and APIs – From all-in-one to curated stacks10:30 Mapping Processes Before Tech Decisions – The key to building a fit-for-purpose stack13:45 Real-World Example: Xero, Unleashed, Lightspeed, Shopify + Causal16:10 Avoiding App Bloat and Driving Adoption – Designing systems around people18:50 Wrap-Up – Finance Tech That Empowers Better Decisions

    20 мин.

  2. 13 ОКТ.

    Why 50% of Tech Projects Fail & How to Fix It | Stop Wasting Your IT Budget

    Most businesses know they need to invest in technology, but few can actually prove the return.In this episode of Finance Focus, Ross Sardi (CEO, First Focus) and Jarrod Morris (CEO, Bolden) sit down with host Brendan Ritchie to break down the ROI gap: why so many technology and AI projects fail to deliver results, and what smart Australian businesses can do differently.💡 Learn how to connect every tech project to your profit and loss (P&L), measure success quarterly, and avoid falling for the vendor ROI mirage.If you’re a CFO, CEO, or business leader wondering whether your technology spend is really paying off then this episode is for you.🔍 What You’ll Learn- The real reason most tech and digital transformation projects fail- How to map technology investments directly to ROI- Why adoption metrics matter more than early results- How to set realistic ROI timelines (and when to walk away)- The five key ROI drivers: efficiency, revenue, quality, productivity, and risk- How to spot inflated vendor claims and avoid the “ROI mirage”- Real-world examples of AI ROI done right👉 Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-focus-it👍 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss an update!

    23 мин.
  3. How AI Is Evolving: Insights from Adam Spencer at IT Nation ANZ

    6 ОКТ.

    How AI Is Evolving: Insights from Adam Spencer at IT Nation ANZ

    AI is moving faster than ever – and Adam Spencer is here to help us break it all down. In this episode of the First Focus podcast, Adam joins Brendan Ritchie and Ross Sardi fresh from the IT Nation Connect ANZ 2025 stage to share his take on: • The real story behind GPT-5 (and why it’s more “raise the floor” than “lift the ceiling”) • The race toward Artificial General Intelligence and Superintelligence – and the risks of being first• How AI is already reshaping workplaces, from law firms to managed IT service providers • Why prompt-writing is the newest power skill• The rise of “digital twins” and what it means for leaders and innovators Whether you’re a tech leader, business owner, or just curious about how AI will impact Australia’s future, this chat is packed with insights and a few laughs along the way. 👉 Follow First Focus IT on LinkedIn for more conversations, events and AI updates: https://au.linkedin.com/company/first-focus-it

    33 мин.
  4. Microsoft Experts Reveal Top SharePoint Data Clean Up Techniques

    22 СЕНТ.

    Microsoft Experts Reveal Top SharePoint Data Clean Up Techniques

    In this episode of SharePoint Focus, experts Mia Tait from First Focus and Alyssa Blackburn from AvePoint sit down to share practical steps every Australian organisation can take to clean up legacy file servers and manage information smarter within M365 and SharePoint.They also discuss what it really takes to:- Clean up and consolidate data scattered across file servers, Dropbox, Slack and other collaboration tools- Avoid the classic “lift-and-shift” mistake that simply moves the clutter into Microsoft 365 without fixing it- Understand the information life cycle—from creation and collaboration through to retention, archival and secure disposal- Use metadata and sensitivity labels to improve search, trigger security processes and stay compliant with the Australian Privacy Act- Cut cloud storage costs while reducing the environmental footprint of your data centre usage- Prepare your data for AI readiness, ensuring tools like Microsoft Copilot deliver accurate insightsKEY CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Intro & Episode OverviewA quick welcome to Episode 5 of SharePoint Focus and what’s ahead: cleaning up legacy file servers and mastering the information life cycle.0:34 – Tackling Data Sprawl Across Multiple PlatformsMia and Alyssa explain how to start with a stocktake of all your data sources—Dropbox, Slack, HR systems and more—before you migrate.3:29 – Why a Lift-and-Shift Migration Creates More ProblemsWhy simply moving everything to SharePoint without sorting is like moving house without cleaning—just moving the clutter.7:57 – Understanding the Information Life CycleAlyssa defines the key stages from creation through retention to secure disposal, and why managing each stage matters.9:50 – Privacy Risks & The Danger of Holding Old DataReal-world examples of how keeping unnecessary data increases risk and why deletion can be safer than hoarding.13:18 – Metadata: The Secret to Search and ComplianceWhat metadata really is, why it’s called a “love note to the future,” and how good tagging makes information easier to find and secure.17:15 – The Three Pillars: Integrity, Efficiency & Cost SavingsHow proper life cycle management protects compliance, saves staff time and cuts cloud storage costs—including environmental benefits.25:09 – Best Practices for SharePoint Life Cycle ManagementPractical tips: assign file owners, automate retention policies, use Microsoft Purview labels and run regular audits.Whether you’re an IT manager, business leader or simply trying to make your Microsoft 365 environment easier to navigate, you’ll discover why a strong information life cycle strategy isn’t just about compliance—it’s about saving time, cutting costs and protecting your business.

    28 мин.
  5. SharePoint and AI: The Secret to Making Copilot Work for Your Business

    8 СЕНТ.

    SharePoint and AI: The Secret to Making Copilot Work for Your Business

    AI rollouts are everywhere—but why do so many fail before they even get off the ground? 🤔 In this episode of SharePoint Focus, Brendan Ritchie, Mia Tait (First Focus M365 Practice Lead), and Alyssa Blackburn (AvePoint) unpack why most AI proof of concepts don’t deliver results and how SharePoint can help set your business up for success.From government Copilot pilots that missed the mark, to the hidden risks of "confetti licenses," and the critical role of clean, well-governed data—this conversation covers the real-world lessons you need to avoid wasted investment. We’ll explore: ✅ Why defining clear outcomes is non-negotiable ✅ The importance of data governance and ROT (Redundant, Obsolete, Trivial) cleanup ✅ Training, adoption, and why ease of use matters more than hype ✅ Measuring AI ROI with real-world examples ✅ How to roll out Copilot and AI in stages for lasting success Whether you’re testing Microsoft Copilot, looking at AI pilots, or trying to avoid wasted spend, this episode will give you the insights to make your AI strategy stick.

    29 мин.
  6. The Hidden Dangers of SharePoint: How to Encourage Collaboration Without the Security Risks

    25 АВГ.

    The Hidden Dangers of SharePoint: How to Encourage Collaboration Without the Security Risks

    In Episode 3 of SharePoint Focus, we’re tackling one of the trickiest balancing acts in Microsoft 365: enabling smooth collaboration without creating security risks.🔹 In Episode 1, we discussed the Privacy Act and why data government in SharePoint matters.🔹 In Episode 2, we looked at preparing your SharePoint environment for AI and reducing storage costs.🔹 Now in Episode 3, we’re getting practical — with real-world tips for sharing and collaboration, plus a look at how poor sharing habits can quickly turn into serious security breaches.👩‍💻 Joined by Alyssa Blackburn (AvePoint) and Mia Tate (First Focus, M365 Practice Lead), we explore:- The fine line between secure and open sharing in SharePoint and Teams- Practical tenant-wide and site-level settings to protect your business- The dangers of oversharing links and folders (and why “request access” drives everyone mad)- Real audit insights: what businesses get wrong again and again- How user education, smart policies, and tools like Guard & Policies + Insights make a difference- Why the new Privacy Act means staff training on data security isn’t optional anymoreThis episode will help you set up SharePoint sharing that is secure, but still collaborative.0:00 – Intro0:40 – Collaboration vs Security: Finding the Balance2:00 – Tenant-Wide Settings & Governance Basics5:30 – The Delicate Balance: Don’t Over-Lock or Over-Open8:00 – Why Individual Permissions Are a Nightmare10:20 – Link Sharing vs Folder Sharing Explained13:40 – Using Guard & Policies + Insights for Better Oversight15:00 – How Poor Sharing Habits Lead to Security Breaches19:00 – Real-World Oversharing Mistakes & AI Risks (Samsung Case)23:30 – Training, the Privacy Act & Why Ongoing Education Matters26:40 – Wrap-Up & Episode 4 Teaser

    27 мин.
  7. Use SharePoint Like a Pro: Managing Data Governance, AI Readiness, and Cloud Storage Costs

    11 АВГ.

    Use SharePoint Like a Pro: Managing Data Governance, AI Readiness, and Cloud Storage Costs

    If you caught Episode 1 of our SharePoint series, you’ll remember we explored why changes to the Privacy Act — along with a rapidly approaching AI-powered future — have put SharePoint data governance back in the spotlight. We also touched on the growing link between good governance and AI readiness for Microsoft 365.In Episode 2, M365 pros Alyssa Blackburn and Mita Tait shift the focus from 'why' to 'how'. This time, it’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting SharePoint (and the rest of your Microsoft 365 environment) in shape for AI tools — while also tackling one of the biggest hidden budget drains in modern business: cloud storage costs.00:00 – Introduction: Privacy Act, AI Readiness & Storage Costs01:06 – Why Data Readiness Matters Before AI02:25 – Step One: Consolidating & Mapping Your Data04:08 – Tools We Use: AvePoint, Opus & Microsoft Purview06:00 – Moving from ‘Set & Forget’ to Ongoing Governance08:28 – Shared Accountability & User Involvement in Permissions10:00 – Reviewing & Filtering Data for Retention Decisions12:25 – Managing File Types, Archives & Duplicates14:05 – Why the Overwhelm Is Normal (and How to Tackle It)16:22 – The Rising Cost of Storage in M365 & SharePoint20:07 – The 680TB Version Control Shock Story23:38 – Real-World Savings: $1.3M in Year One25:48 – Proactive vs Reactive Data ManagementPlease follow us on LinkedIn! We’d love to be part of your professional network, and it helps us stay closer and share insights that matter to leaders like you: 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-focus-it/

    27 мин.

  8. 28 ИЮЛ.

    SharePoint Data Governance & The Privacy Act: What You Need to Know

    Welcome to our new mini-series 'SharePoint Focus'. Over the next six episodes, M365 pros Mia Tait McIntyre and Alyssa Blackburn will join host Brendan Ritchie to share practical tips to help you get clarity, get compliant, and get SharePoint working for your business.In this episode, Mia Tait (M365 Practice Lead - First Focus) and Alyssa Blackburn (Program Manager - AvePoint) discuss what the recent reforms to the Australian Privacy Act mean for businesses of all sizes, and how SharePoint can help you stay compliant, secure, and AI-ready.🔐 What you’ll learn in this episode:- What’s changed in the Privacy Act (1988) and the 2024-2026 amendments- How the new laws impact small to mid-sized businesses (including fines & legal risk)- Why storing personal information in SharePoint now comes with stricter obligations- How to use SharePoint to enforce access controls, retention policies, and data loss preventionCHAPTERS:0:00 – Introduction: Why SharePoint and data governance matter0:49 – Meet the guests: Mia Tait & Alyssa Blackburn1:22 – Why focus on data governance in SharePoint now?1:36 – Privacy Act changes in late 20242:16 – The rise of cybercrime and why privacy laws matter5:16 – Key Privacy Act updates: Small businesses now included6:31 – The real-world impact of data breaches (Optus, Medibank, Qantas)8:12 – Heavier fines and revenue-based penalties explained10:03 – Start with a data stocktake: Knowing what you have10:57 – Data retention rules: Only keep what you need13:38 – Building a risk and value framework for your data14:56 – New breach notification requirements for businesses17:44 – Privacy Act timeline: What’s active now vs. 2026 updates19:38 – The importance of transparency and trust with customers21:10 – Directors’ responsibilities and civil penalties23:52 – Why SharePoint governance is crucial for AI readiness25:05 – Understanding ROT data: Redundant, Obsolete, Trivial26:48 – Using tools to manage and clean up data30:09 – Risks of bad data: Poor decisions and AI errors32:53 – How bad data kills adoption of AI tools34:55 – Simplicity for end users: The Alyssa Blackburn Scale of Complexity36:40 – Wrap up: Privacy, governance, and preparing for AIPlease follow us on LinkedIn! We’d love to be part of your professional network, and it helps us stay closer and share insights that matter to leaders like you: 👉https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-focus-it/

    38 мин.
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If you’re part of a mid-sized organization with 50 to 300 people, this podcast is for you. Business Focus is a dedicated platform for exploring valuable tools in the business world, offering top-quality insights for anyone eager to enhance and push their professional performance or that of their team to the next level. Stay updated with the latest trends and updates alongside elite professionals from diverse sectors and industries, ensuring you're always at the forefront of innovation.

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  • Автор
    First Focus
  • Годы выхода
    2024 - 2025
  • Выпуски
    49
  • Ограничения
    Без ненормативной лексики
  • Авторские права
    © First Focus
  • Сайт подкаста
    Business Focus