Microsoft rolls out tools as partners tackling pandemic disruption

Gavriella Schuster, Microsoft One Commercial Partner Vice President

“Microsoft is continuing to roll out a host of new tools and partner program updates as partners navigate their way through the tumultuous business climate brought on by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, as per the report.

The new tools on offer include an enhanced Partner Centre, which provides a single place for partners to connect with other partners, Microsoft and customers. In addition, there is further on-demand support and evolved co-selling programs that mean partners can accept and share referrals from Microsoft (first party solutions) and other partners (third party solutions).

The vendor is also increasing access to training, support and go-to-market services, along with new competencies on the line, advanced specialisations and the company's Expert Program.

Additionally, Microsoft has indicated that it will put an increased focus on rewarding customer, results and achieving positive outcomes rather than relying on a model that is purely based on financial metrics.

These offerings only scratch the surface as we continue to prioritise investments that support new opportunities in order to position our commercial partners for growth in the future,” Gavriella Schuster, Microsoft One Commercial Partner Vice President said. 

Schuster has assure partners that the company remains committed to safeguard business continuity and ensure the ecosystem is set up to reach its full potential.

“We look forward to continuing to evolve our relationship with all of our commercial partners in the months and years to come,” she said. “I’m proud of the work Microsoft is doing and the investments the company has made to support our customers and partners during these challenging times.”

Customers can also acquire new technology and pay one per cent of the total contract value each month for the first eight months, deferring over 90% of the cost until 2021. With no COVID-19 end in sight, Microsoft adjusts partner programs.

The changes centre around increasing incentives and issuing competency extensions across specific product portfolios such as Teams and Azure, alongside postponing Microsoft Partner Agreement implementation plans. This is in addition to ramping up online training and certifications, backed by improved access to digital marketing resources.