Microsoft products are inescapable in modern business. From Windows running on workstations and servers to Office applications like Excel, Outlook, and Word, to Azure and Power BI managing mission-critical data, businesses can’t function without these technologies. As such, the majority of businesses rely on managed services providers to manage and support their Microsoft systems.
To differentiate themselves from the competition, partners are seeking to attain new badges that showcase their expertise, capabilities, and ability to drive customer success. The Solutions Partner designations are a way for customers to identify the right partners to meet their needs. These new badges are aligned with how Microsoft goes to market in solution areas and provide incremental benefits including co-sell eligibility, sales enablement resources, and skilling opportunities.
To earn a Solutions Partner designation, you must have 70 points or more across three metrics that are informed by data you already have in Partner Center: partner capability score, skills and certifications, and usage growth. The metric criteria are the same as those for a Gold competency, but the total point threshold is higher and there is an emphasis on growth in each of the individual metrics. You will also get recommendations for each metric area to help you focus your efforts and avoid a drop in your score. To view your progress, sign in to Partner Center and select Membership. To purchase your Solutions Partner designation, click the button next to your qualification eligibility window (as shown below). Learn more about how to make a payment. microsoft solutions partner