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In this episode of the Azure Essentials Show, host Aaron Stark is joined by Farzad Sunavala and Lana Teh for an exploration of how Azure AI Search empowers organizations to build impactful AI applications. The discussion centers on the importance of Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), the technical foundations and enterprise-grade features of Azure AI Search, and the practical benefits and resources available for users looking to enhance their AI skills. The trio highlight hybrid retrieval strategies, security and compliance, and hands-on learning opportunities for both beginners and advanced users.
In this video, you will learn:
• How RAG connects AI models to enterprise data and why retrieval quality is critical for accurate AI responses.
• The technical capabilities of Azure AI Search, including hybrid search, security, compliance, and integration with the Azure ecosystem.
• Practical benefits such as accelerated decision-making, improved customer experience, compliance at scale, and unlocking institutional knowledge.
Recommended next steps:
• Explore the Microsoft Learn skilling plan “Create Agentic AI Solutions by using Azure AI Foundry” for structured, self-paced training.
• Watch the “Ragtime” YouTube series for a comprehensive, hands-on learning journey into RAG and Azure AI Search.
Resources
• What is Azure AI Search? https://learn.microsoft.comazure/search/search-what-is-azure-search
• GitHub repo https://aka.ms/rag-time
• Blog: How Azure AI Search powers RAG in ChatGPT and global scale apps https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftmechanicsblog/how-azure-ai-search-powers-rag-in-chatgpt-and-global-scale-apps/4288411
• Skilling plan: Create agentic AI solutions by using Azure AI Foundry https://aka.ms/CreateAgenticAISolutions
• Azure AI Foundry https://ai.azure.com/
• Introduction to Azure AI Search https://learn.microsoft.com/azure/search/search-what-is-azure-search
• Explore essential resources! https://azure.com/AzureEssentials
Related episodes
• Build Intelligent Apps on Azure https://aka.ms/AzEssentials/195
• Essential Azure Skilling and Guidance https://aka.ms/AzEssentials/191
• Watch more Skilling episodes https://aka.ms/azenable/Skilling
• Watch the Azure Essentials Show https://aka.ms/AzureEssentialsShow
Connect
• Aaron Stark https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-kiyaani-mcclary-b71009106
• Farzad Sunavala https://www.linkedin.com/in/farzadsunavala
• Lannah Teh https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanna-teh
Chapters
0:00 In this episode…
0:30 Introduction
1:00 What is RAG?
2:51 What is Azure AI Search?
3:56 Addressing security and compliance concerns
4:49 Key benefits of Azure AI Search?
5:35 Examples of benefits
6:20 Skilling Resources?
7:20 Additional resources Read More Microsoft Developer
