14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has opened the Cloud to its partners as the overhauled version of the Microsoft Partner Network went live on November 1st, 2010. Having been cooking for the past couple of years, the revamped partner portal has been expanded to offer extensive resources from training to support for the members of the software giant’s partner program.
Among the new additions is the Microsoft Cloud Partner hub, which aims to streamline the transition for existing and new partners to building and commercializing Cloud offerings.
And coming to complement the existing Microsoft Partner Network subscriptions, the software giant launched a new package of resources set up to simplify the process of embracing the Cloud.
Cloud partners will be able to access the new Microsoft Cloud Essentials Pack, but also leverage the Microsoft Cloud Accelerate badge which will offer additional benefits.
But flipping the switch on the Microsoft Partner Network involves much more than the introduction of new Cloud opportunities for partners.
Essentially, Microsoft has wrapped up a revamp which lasted for the better part of the past two years.
This means that there is now a new structure for partners that renew their annual Microsoft Partner Network memberships.
“Microsoft’s partners are the secret behind our success, and we created the Microsoft Partner Network to help them achieve their business needs and drive deeper customer satisfaction,” revealed Jon Roskill, corporate vice president of the Worldwide Partner Group at Microsoft.
“The Microsoft Partner Network provides partners with the necessary tools, resources and support to help partners differentiate themselves and succeed in today’s market.”
Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or the Microsoft Partner Network Community are all available for partners to connect with their peers but also with the Redmond company, with Microsoft Action Pack Subscriptions continuing to be available.
There are now silver or gold competencies in no less than 29 areas, and the possibility for Microsoft Partner Network members to also join the Small Business Specialist Community (SBCS), BizSpark or WebsiteSpark.
“Microsoft has long been an innovator in partner programs, and the Microsoft Partner Network once again shows the vendor’s leadership in this area,” added Darren Bibby, program director for IDC Software Channels Research.
“The Microsoft Partner Network will continue to help the wide array of Microsoft partners make a significant contribution to the global economy.”