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22 Sep 2003
Microsoft is amplifying its efforts in the SME space by urging resellers to focus on the business benefits of its Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2003, not on the technology.
The vendor has claimed SBS, set for UK release on 10 October, will include a range of different 'hooks' to help partners secure additional revenue streams and service opportunities.
SBS is available in two editions: Premium and Standard. The Standard Edition consists of Windows Server 2003 and Exchange Server 2003. The Premium Edition adds Microsoft SQL Server 2000, Internet Security and Acceleration Server.
John Coulthard, head of small business at Microsoft UK, said: "Small firms make up 98 per cent of the UK business community and employ 50 per cent of the workforce.
"We will be helping partners understand the key selling areas and have published guides in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce on likely questions from SMEs adopting the technology," he said.
Coulthard added that Microsoft intends to encourage online communication between partners and customers through its bCentral customer portal and dedicated partner portal.
Gregory Micallef, managing director of system integrator and consultancy firm Gregory Micallef Associates, said: "Ultimately any organisation, irrelevant of its size, wants to buy a solution that helps its business, but it is not interested in the technology.
"The fact that SBS 2003 is available in two editions means there is a cheaper entry level, and for small businesses cost is key. They don't always need all the bells and whistles of the more expensive products.
SBS 2003 allows them to get up and running and build upon that at a later date."
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