Via Connect

Jul 21, 2010 08:26 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft is making it extremely simple to test drive the latest release of Commerce Server 2009. Both customers and partners can head over to Microsoft Connect, and access the Commerce Server 2009 Evaluation VPC July 2010 Update, which has just been releases. The Redmond company is offering not only the latest VPC update, but also a comprehensive collection of additional content, including a demonstration script, sales collateral, but also samples, and videos designed to streamline the testing process as much as possible.

“In an effort to help facilitate the Microsoft Commerce Server 2009 evaluation experience, the Microsoft Commerce Server 2009 Evaluation VPC (July 2010 update) is now available for download to partners and customers. This VPC has Commerce Server 2009 and Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 fully installed and configured (Core Systems, Multi-Channel Commerce Foundation, SharePoint Commerce Services), including the default site with the Template Pack running in SharePoint using the 30 new Web Parts,” revealed Lynnette McL, from the E-commerce team at Microsoft.

Early adopters and testers already familiar with Connect know that a valid Windows Live ID is necessary in order to access the projects hosted on the site, including Commerce Server 2009. At the same time, customers will need to add Ensure Commerce Server to their Microsoft Connect Dashboard. The next step involves registration and answering the 'Survey' questions, after which Microsoft will give green light to the VPC downloads.

“No technological or content changes have been made to the July evaluation VPC, other than the extension of the trial license period of the evaluation software installed. This VPC is to be used for demonstration purposes with the intent to assist in the sales cycle and to help improve the Commerce Server 2009 evaluation experience. Approximately every 2 months the VPC will be updated and reposted to Microsoft Connect. This VPC is installed with evaluation software that will expire, significantly reducing functionality of the VPC,” Lynnette added.

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