Microsoft Jumps at Sage's Jugular

Microsoft is applauding its Dynamics enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions as a “beacon in the storm,” the global economic storm, of course, indicating strong commitment to continued investments and stability in the long run. In this regard, little has the Redmond giant hesitated to jump at rival Sage's jugular in an attempt to draw customers and partners away from its competitor. The software giant invited both customers and partners concerned with Sage Software channel stability to embrace alternative products, with the focus on Dynamics ERP. Microsoft pointed out that MIS Group, Sage’s largest partner for the past couple of years, going out of business was sufficient reason for considering alternatives.

“Microsoft Dynamics offers innovative products and strong return on investment, which is exactly what customers and partners are looking for – especially when questions have arisen about Sage’s ability to deliver ongoing innovation and investment in its ERP portfolio and remain competitive in this marketplace,” explained Crispin Read, general manager for Microsoft Dynamics ERP.

Sage customers in the United States who wish to migrate to Dynamics ERP can take advantage of special offerings from Microsoft. The Redmond company, through its Dynamics ERP partner channel, is using $50 licensing discounts for Dynamics ERP and 25% rebates of the retail value of the Microsoft Dynamics solution (but no more than $25,000) as a way to contribute to offsetting the migration costs for customers currently running Sage MAS 90 or MAS 200.

“At Microsoft, we passionately believe customers deserve software that will make their lives easier and help make them more productive every day,” Read added. “The ERP midmarket includes hundreds of accounting and ERP applications from vendors with uncertain product road maps and little or no ongoing investment. I am delighted each time a customer migrates to Microsoft Dynamics ERP.”

But Microsoft is in no way limiting itself to customers. The software giant is also prepared to offer what it referred to as safe harbor to Sage partners, in a move designed to extend its own ERP channel. “In times of economic turbulence, customers have high expectations of their ERP providers, demanding innovation, investment and long-term financial stability,” said Doug Kennedy, vice president of the Microsoft Dynamics Partners team. “There has never been a better time to join the Microsoft Dynamics community.”