Canada ranks 3rd in the world for Microsoft 365 usage (the United States is 1st and the United Kingdom is 2nd). Given this volume of users, many Canadian SMBs can benefit from working with a Microsoft Solutions Partner who can optimize their M365 suite.
| “Any business that uses the Microsoft suite will benefit by leveraging Microsoft’s partner network. That’s where they can find service providers who specifically know M365 products.” – Sean Schoenberger, President, Sunco Communication & Installation |
Although Microsoft is one of the most widely used operating systems, not every IT partner can use it to the level that a Microsoft Certified Partner can. While most IT service providers can troubleshoot and maintain it well enough, a Certified Partner helps you take your usage further.
If you’re interested in learning more about this designation, our article will explain what the Microsoft Partner Program is, who gets certified, and how you can benefit from working with one.
What is The Microsoft Partner Program?
The Microsoft Partner Program is a platform designed by Microsoft to connect businesses and service providers. The program focuses on specific partner capabilities and solutions. This makes it easier for potential customers to find the exact partner that they need and for partners to find a good fit for their services.
The program used to be organized into silver and gold tiers. However, this was phased out in October 2022 and replaced with 6 partner designations:
- Solutions Partner for Infrastructure (Azure)
- Solutions Partner for Data & AI (Azure)
- Solutions Partner for Digital & App Innovation (Azure)
- Solutions Partner for Modern Work
- Solutions Partner for Business Applications
- Solutions Partner for Security
Additionally, the program offers comprehensive benefits and support to help partners grow and succeed. For instance, Microsoft provides up to $150,000 in Azure credits, along with other resources such as GitHub and Visual Studio subscriptions. This way, the partner has the necessary resources to deliver reliable, cutting-edge solutions to their clients.
39.4% of Canadian Businesses Face an IT Labour Shortage
What is a Microsoft Certified Partner?
A Microsoft Certified Partner is a business that has demonstrated a high degree of competence and expertise with Microsoft technologies and has met a set of requirements set forth by Microsoft.
To become a Microsoft Certified Partner, a company must earn certifications in specific solution areas of Microsoft technology. They must also provide customer references to demonstrate their ability to deliver high-quality solutions.
Types of Microsoft Solutions Partners
Although we have already mentioned the 6 designations, here is a list of the types of businesses that may participate in the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program.
| Type of Business | Description |
|---|---|
| Azure Solutions Partner | Specializes in delivering scalable and secure cloud solutions using Microsoft Azure. |
| Microsoft Security Solutions Partner | Focuses on enhancing security measures and solutions across Microsoft platforms. |
| Microsoft Dynamics 365 Partner | Provides expertise in implementing and customizing Microsoft Dynamics 365 applications. |
| Microsoft Managed Service Provider | Offers comprehensive management of Microsoft-based environments, including support and maintenance. |
| Microsoft 365 Solutions Partner | Expert in deploying and managing Microsoft 365 services to enhance workplace productivity. |
| Microsoft Power Platform Partner | Delivers solutions that automate processes, build solutions, and analyze data using Power Platform. |
What Are The Benefits of Working With a Microsoft Certified Partner?
Access to Expertise
Since businesses must meet rigorous certification standards to qualify, you know that choosing a Microsoft Partner means that you’ll gain access to highly specialized expertise. This means they are well-equipped to provide solutions that are both innovative and effective. Your projects will better align with the latest industry standards and technology.
Quality Assurance
Microsoft Certified Partners are required to maintain a high standard of service to keep their certification status. This commitment to quality means that you can expect reliable and well-executed services.
Enhanced Security
Microsoft Certified Partners must maintain strict cybersecurity standards. That means that you’ll benefit from a partner who is able to protect you from a wider range of potential issues. For instance, 70% of businesses experience data loss from accidental deletion or system failures.
Having a highly-trained security partner who works directly with Microsoft reduces your chances of facing such an issue in your environment.
| Learn More About How You Can Optimize Your Microsoft Network |
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Proactive Support
Microsoft Certified Partners provide direct and continuous support to their clients. They receive the latest updates and training from Microsoft, enabling them to handle any issues swiftly and effectively. This proactive support helps businesses minimize downtime, maintain productivity, and ensure that they are always leveraging the latest technological advancements.
Cost-Effective Customized Solutions
56% of Canadian businesses are increasing the amount they spend on software and technology. However, working with a Microsoft Certified Partner can lead to more cost-effective IT solutions. That’s because they have access to exclusive Microsoft resources and training, which can help reduce costs associated with IT management and maintenance.
Additionally, they can offer customized solutions that are specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of their clients, typically without additional overhead.
Cutting-Edge Solutions
As mentioned, Microsoft Certified Partners have exclusive access to Microsoft resources, tools, and training. This direct link provides them with insights into upcoming technologies and advanced solutions that may not yet be widely available.
Therefore, you could gain a competitive edge by proactively leveraging the newest technologies Microsoft offers.
Need a Microsoft 365 Partner to Help You Manage Your Remote Workforce?
Partnering with a Microsoft managed service provider helps you streamline a modern work environment optimized for remote workforces. Such a partner will have the ability to deliver services that allow you to grow your business securely while offering remote or hybrid work options.
Sunco Communication & Installation is a managed telecom and managed IT service provider with a Microsoft Solutions Partner designation for modern work. This recognition demonstrates our technical proficiency, enabling us to deliver secure, flexible, scalable, and personalized services tailored to your success.
Reach out today to start doing more with your Microsoft products.
