What do Microsoft’s latest updates mean for Microsoft Solutions Partners?
Becoming a Microsoft Solutions Partner is a significant achievement for any technology company, but recent updates mean achieving that status is now harder than ever
The Microsoft Cloud Partner Program (formerly Microsoft Partner Network) has evolved for all commercial partners, introducing several new designations and accreditations.
How is eligibility as a Microsoft Solutions Partner assessed?
Eligibility to nominate partners is based on the partner skill score achieved by each organization. Partnerability scores are awarded based on factors in three categories: Achievement, Qualification, and Customer Success.
These designations demonstrate that a company has demonstrated a high level of expertise in Microsoft products and technologies and has met the rigorous standards required to become a partner. By achieving Microsoft Solutions Partner status, customers can identify companies that have committed to training and accreditation and have a proven track record of delivering solutions that drive business growth.
Operator requirements include a proven track record of delivering high-quality technology solutions, a commitment to customer satisfaction, and a deep understanding of Microsoft products and technologies. The new Solution Partner status replaces Microsoft’s Gold Partner level, and significantly fewer companies are expected to be awarded the new designation if the requirements are significantly higher.
Requirements for this Microsoft-approved designation include a minimum customer spend of US$1,000 per month, specifically for Microsoft Azure for three customers, use of at least five different Azure technologies in client deployments, and an annual increase in Azure spend by customers by 20%.
How can a company benefit from becoming a Microsoft Solutions Partner?
Once a company becomes a Microsoft Solutions Partner, it gains access to a range of Microsoft resources and support, including training, technical support, and access to the latest technologies and products. This enables the company to stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies in the industry and to offer its customers innovative solutions that meet their unique needs and requirements.
This also gives the company a competitive edge and helps improve its reputation in the industry as it demonstrates its commitment to providing quality solutions and services to its customers.
Louise Clayton, Managing Director at Talk Think Do, states, “Recognition as a Microsoft Solutions Partner helps companies establish their position as a technology specialist in the industry. Despite industry concerns that changes to the Microsoft criteria could make accreditation unattainable for some companies, we firmly believe that continuous improvement is paramount for companies to succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace.”
Provided by Talk Think Do