TechNet Webcast Weblog : Virtual Lab

Test Drive Microsoft Dynamics NAV Test Drive

technetwebcasts — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 01:10:00 GMT

Try out the Microsoft Dynamics NAV in an easy to navigate Test Drive environment which includes mini-Webcasts and Virtual Labs: www.dynamicsnavtestdrive.com. The Virtual Labs allow you to play around with Dynamics NAV without having to download trial bits or installing it on your computer.

Microsoft Dynamics NAV is a enterprise resource planning (ERP) software for mid-size and small businesses.

· Microsoft Dynamics NAV Home: www.microsoft.com/dynamics/nav

· What’s New w/ Dynamics NAV 5.0: http://www.microsoft.com/dynamics/nav/product/50whatsnew.mspx

Dynamics NAV Test Drive

We’re experimenting with the new Test Drive format to make it easier to find content regardless of the online vehicle we use to deliver it – Webcast video, Podcast audio or hands-on Virtual Lab. We’ve also reduced the registration process so that you don’t have to register every time you want to try out the video or lab which will make it easier to experiment and learn about the software we’re highlighting. Check it out and let me know what you think about this form factor.

Scott Lum

Vista Test Drive - Try out Vista in a Virtual Lab environment

technetwebcasts — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:52:00 GMT

Several months ago, our team launched the Vista Test Drive (www.vistatestdrive.com) in time for the Office Vista Launch. The Vista Test Drive is a great way to try out some of the features of Vista without having to download or install the trial software on your computer using a guided hands-on Virtual Lab. You can also see the features demonstrated in a mini-screencast demo.

So, why is the Vista Test Drive format important? When I was at TechEd, the top two feedback comments I heard from you was make it easier to get into the Webcasts and Virtual Labs and make them easier to find. With Vista Test Drive the registration is much easier - you enter your e-mail just once up front and once you're in the Vista Test Drive you can try out the videos and the Virtual Labs without having to re-register. I realize that it can be a pain to get into our Webcasts and Virtual Labs right now - you need to navigate several pages before you get to watch the Webcast or evaluate the product online. We don't have a silver bullet yet, but we're getting better.

Also, we made it easier to find the content based on the important product features and the audience (Small Business and Mid-Size Business for this version). I think this drives users through the content much more seamlessly and we don't just drop you into a landing page with a laundry list of resources. How we tackle the 6000 Webcasts in our archive will be a different matter, but for now, I think this is a step in the right direction.

The response has been hugely successful. The number of people watching the videos and trying out the Virtual Labs has exceeded our expectations. Try it out, let me know what you think and look for new versions of Test Drive for some of our other products in the near future. (Requires IE6 - available in US and Canada only).

Scott Lum

New Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Virtual Labs

technetwebcasts — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 06:50:00 GMT

Try out the latest features of Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 in a free, online virtual environment. TechNet Virtual Labs are simple to use —no complex setup or installation is required. Check out the Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Virtual Labs at: http://www.microsoft.com/events/series/unifiedcommunications.aspx?tab=virtuallabs

Office Communication Server 2007 Virtual Labs:

· Exchange Server 2007: Configuring the Unified Messaging Server

· Deploying and Configuring Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007

· Enabling Users and Installing Office Communicator 2007

· Configuring and Using Conferencing in Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007

· Using the Management and Troubleshooting Tools in Office Communications Server 2007

· Compliance and Archiving in Office Communications Server 2007

Scott Lum