Also known as the Microsoft Partner Network or MPN is Microsoft Inc.’s partner network. It was formerly known as the Microsoft Partner Program or MSPP. It is designed to make resources available to a wide variety of technology companies so they can build a business around Microsoft technologies.
The program consists of the 640,000 partners, vendors and service providers that build or sell solutions based on Microsoft products. These partners include Systems integrators, Original equipment manufacturers, Independent software vendors, Value-added resellers, Telecommunications companys, Internet hosting services, Marketing agencys, and Resellers.
As of 2009, this business ecosystem generated $8.70 in revenue for partner companies for every $1 that Microsoft makes.
Microsoft Certified Solution Provider program – Launched in 1992
March 2000 - Ian Rogoff is named vice president of Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Group.
Microsoft Certified Partner program – Launched in 2000
In 2001, Microsoft decides to invest $500 Million in partner-related activities.
November 2001 - Rosa Garcia replaces Ian Rogoff as head of Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Group.
2002 – Allison L. Watson replace Rosa Garcia as the head of Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Group.
In 2003, Microsoft invested heavily in the partner program. Microsoft signed up 5,000 new ISVs to the Microsoft's ISV Empower Program. Microsoft upped its number of technical specialists on staff to assist partners, from 700 to 2,400 in one year. Microsoft revamped its employee compensation incentive plans, tying 60 percent of bonuses in most cases to partner and customer satisfaction. Microsoft also centralized also of its channel programs into the Microsoft Partner Program. This included consolidating OEMs, ISVs, VARs, integrators and consultants under one program.
2004 – Microsoft invests $1.7 Billion dollars in the partner program.
July 2010 – John Roskill replaces Allison Watson as the head of Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Group. At that time, Microsoft investment in partners has grown to $5.2 billon: This includes: $3.8 billion in channel incentives, $1 billion in partner marketing, $100 million in business investment fund, and about $200 million in direct partner benefits through the Microsoft Partner Network.
Late 2010 – The Microsoft Partner Network officially launches and supersedes the old Microsoft Partner Program.
2013 - In response to slow sales of the new Windows 8 line, Microsoft slashed Solutions Incentive Programme payments.
Companies can apply to be a Microsoft Certified Partner. Partner resources include the Microsoft Pinpoint online directory, and the annual Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference.
Other, individual certification programs such as the Microsoft Certified Professional are ways for individuals to become professionally certified in Microsoft products.
