17 December 2007

How to become a new Microsoft Partner

If you are interested in becoming a new Microsoft Partner, this posting may help.

If you are an Independent Software Vendor (or ISV, see below for definition) and would like to launch a new product based on Microsoft technology, the Empower program is for you. We have re-vamped the previous enrolment process and incorporated the tool into the Microsoft Partner Program site. We also updated the Empower FAQ and the Empower Initiative Guide. 

For more information, please visit the Empower site for general information or to the new enrolment page to get started.

I'm not an ISV, so how do I become a Microsoft Partner?

Visit the Partner Portal and download the Partner Program guide which covers all aspects of the Microsoft Partner Program, including 

  • the basic structure of the program
  • which types of partners should join,
  • requirements and benefits
  • enrolment and re-enrolment policies and processes
  • and the Microsoft Competency framework.

What is an ISV?

  • ISVs are organisations that exclusively develop software or software solutions instead of being part of a computer system or being a hardware manufacturer
  • At least 30 percent of the company’s overall revenue comes from the sales of licenses of that solution
  • ISVs integrate Microsoft licensed products with their application in any of the following ways:
    • By integrating a Microsoft licensed product into the ISV’s application code
    • By including a Microsoft licensed product along with the ISV’s application on the installation media; or
    • By pre-installing a Microsoft licensed product on a computer system that is part of the unified solution

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# yinka said:

Do web based applications qualify as an ISV?

http://www.spiralteck.com

-----------------------

Hi Yinka,

The ISV/Software Solutions Competency requirements may be found here.  Generally, a product requires certification by VeriTest on Windows Server; SQL Server or a combination of tests on Dynamics, Mobile, ISA etc.  So if your web application/solution meets these requirements, then yes.

Otherwise, you may want to consider the Custom Development Solutions competency which has a web server focus: 

  1. Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD): Web Developer certification

    OR
  2. The advanced certifications - Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) or Microsoft Certified Applications Developer (MCAD). In addition, this individual must also pass the following exam:
And choice of one of the following exams:
Customer Reference Requirements
Submit at least three references for projects that feature the implementation, management, or deployment of custom applications and infrastructure using one or more of the following:
  • Visual Studio
  • ASP.NET
  • IIS
  • ADO.NET
  • Windows Server 2003
  • SQL Server
Microsoft Partner Program Guide
Use this downloadable guide to learn everything you need to know about Microsoft Partner Program benefits, requirements, fees, competencies, and enrollment.
Regional Service Center
Contact your Regional Service Center to get help with your program membership and associated tools, benefits, and resources.
 
I hope this helps. 
19 December 07 at 3:30 PM

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