Microsoft announces major changes to partner program

Microsoft has announced some major changes to how it licences key cloud and enterprise server packages during its Worldwide Partner Conference in Washington DC.

The annual event brings together Microsoft ‘partners’, including distributors, corporate IT companies that sell its products and services, and third-party independent software vendors.

A key announcement is an expansion of the Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider program, which allows partners to provide both their own IT services and Microsoft’s cloud-based services on a single bill.

The program will roll out across 48 countries over the next 12 months and initially cover Office 365 and Windows Intune, with other cloud-based products to be added later.

The tech giant is also adding Azure and Dynamics CRM Online to its Open Licensing Programs, allowing for greater flexibility in how partners offer the online services to small and medium-sized businesses.

Microsoft partners will also gain access to a new training feature called Azure Machine Learning University, which provides step-by-step instructions for how to deploy the company’s machine learning tools.