A demo environment is a setup or instance of a software application that is specifically designed for demonstration purposes. It is typically used to showcase the features, functionality, and benefits of the software to potential customers, stakeholders, or users without the risks associated with using a live production environment. 

The key characteristics of a demo environment are – Demonstration, Training, Testing, Evaluation, Feedback, Sales and Marketing. 

Key Characteristics and Purposes of a Demo Environment

• 1. Demonstration: It provides a controlled setting to demonstrate how the software works, often including pre-configured scenarios that highlight key features and capabilities. 
• 2. Training: It serves as a platform for training new users or employees, allowing them to learn and practice using the software without affecting real data or operations. 
• 3. Testing: It can be used for testing new features, updates, or customizations to ensure they work as expected before being deployed to the production environment. 
• 4. Evaluation: Potential customers can use the demo environment to evaluate the software's suitability for their needs, enabling them to make informed purchasing decisions. 
• 5. Feedback: It allows users to provide feedback on the software's functionality and usability, which can be valuable for developers and product managers. 
• 6. Sales and Marketing: Sales teams often use demo environments during presentations to prospective clients, highlighting the software's advantages and differentiators. 

A demo environment is designed to replicate the production environment as closely as possible, but with safeguards in place to prevent any negative impact on real operations. It can be configured with sample data and tailored scenarios that are relevant to the audience being targeted. 

Demo environment – Preparedness 

Preparing a demo environment effectively involves several steps to ensure it is functional, representative, and engaging. Here's a comprehensive list of steps to prepare a demo environment: 

• 1. The existing demo environment can be used for new demo.
• 2. The following are the steps to create a new demo environment for the client.
• 3. Add user to Azure Active.
• 4. Complete the Azure Resource Manager onboarding process as per below link - Click here
• 5. Follow the below link to deploy the demo Environment - Click here

• 6. Buy a licence for Dynamics 365 Finance and operation Supply Chain Management.
• 7. Take support from team admin to complete steps 3 to 8.
• 8. Log in to LCS (lcs.dynamics.com/v2) using an Azure Active Directory account.
• 9. Create an Implementation Project.
• 10. Complete the Project Onboarding steps in LCS.

  

• 11. Get help from Microsoft in case of any issue by creating a Microsoft support ticket.

  

• 12. Once all the steps for Project onboarding are completed in LCS Open the newly created project navigate to the Environment section and deploy a Default Standard Acceptance Test Environment with Microsoft Demo Data.

  

• 13. Once deployed click on Full Detail on the newly created Environment and log on to it by clicking the Login button.

  

• 14. Add user(s) and provide them access.

CONCLUSION: 

In conclusion, meticulous preparation of a demo environment is crucial for delivering a successful and impactful demonstration. By carefully defining objectives, planning detailed scenarios, customizing for the audience, and thoroughly testing the setup, you can ensure a seamless and engaging experience. Preparedness not only showcases the software's capabilities effectively but also builds confidence with your audience, whether they are potential customers, trainees, or stakeholders. Remember, a well-prepared demo environment reflects your professionalism and commitment to quality, leaving a lasting positive impression and setting the stage for successful outcomes.