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Using the Microsoft Power Platform to implement automation at M&G
Grayce Change+ Analyst, Gemma Bilboe shares her experience taking part in a Power Platforms competition with M&G.
As part of Grayce’s partnership with M&G, Grayce Analysts were provided training on Microsoft’s Power Platform to create solutions to improve the efficiency of operations at M&G.
This ‘Dragon’s Den’ style event then provided Grayce Analysts based at M&G with a unique platform to showcase their creative solutions to a panel of senior management and demonstrate the potential value of low-code technology across the business.
Upskilling in Microsoft’s Power Platform
M&G initially provided Grayce Analysts with a 1-hour introduction to the Power Platform before delivering a full day of training on the Power Platform suite: Power BI, Power App and Power Automate. Here, we learnt the basics of the Power Platform tools, using a workable scenario which helped us put our newly-learnt knowledge into practice.
After the training, we were challenges to create use case and an innovative solution to help add value and make a real difference in our teams’ outputs. Over the next couple of months leading up to the Dragons Den event, M&G held weekly drop-in sessions where we could talk through the use case and our solution with a Power Platform SME. These drop-in sessions were invaluable and allowed the opportunity to really consolidate our knowledge and work through the build of the solution with an expert.
Implementing automation to meet ESG objectives
Grayce Analysts presented their ideas for using the Power Platform to a panel of senior leaders at M&G – our ‘dragons’ for the competition. There were some incredible ideas and I was lucky enough to be chosen as the winner.
As a Business Analyst working on the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, a key task is to ensure the project has full sight of which funds require the regulatory disclosures by the set deadline. This process was performed manually via email. However, it became harder to manage with the recent drive towards more sustainable funds. By automating this process, it reduces the regulatory risk of capturing the in-scope funds incorrectly, or not at all, and therefore contributing to M&G meeting its regulatory product-level obligations.
Holistic development
I really enjoyed learning the technical aspects of the Power Platform! I felt a sense of satisfaction when I was able to use my new skills and knowledge acquired as part of the initiative to build the solution from scratch. I also enjoyed presenting my solution to the panel and wider audience. This was a fantastic opportunity to showcase my ability to the business and senior management.
In addition to learning all about the Power Platform – which I knew very little about previously – the project made me appreciate the potential of low-code in unearthing and solving numerous business inefficiencies. Going forward throughout my career, I will be more aware of how I could utilise the Power Platform to streamline processes and add value to my clients.
Watch our ESG webinar, 'Exploring the Impact of Projects with Purpose in Financial Services'
