Microsoft on prowl for more VADs

On the prowl: Microsoft wants more VADs

Microsoft has announced plans to broaden its distribution line-up with the launch of its Value Added Distributor (VAD) Programme.

The programme is open to distributors willing to make a “defined” level of investment in one or more of three areas of “emerging technology” that the firm is tipping for “significant growth”: virtualisation, security and unified communications.

The software giant has already signed two of its existing UK distribution partners, Computer 2000 (C2000) and Bell Micro, and Simon Aldous, partner manager at Micro­soft, said it wants more.

He said: “We are broadening our portfolio through our existing partners and have a number of others working with us to acquire VAD status, too.”

Microsoft distributor Ing­ram Micro is becoming a VAD partner, said value business director Cathi Low.

“[We] will continue to dev­elop and enhance our value proposition with specific Microsoft VAD plans, and expect to launch unified communications in Q2,” she said.

Phil Bell, marketing manager at Microsoft distribution partner Westcoast, said it is interested in the programme, but already has similar reseller engagement initiatives in place.

“What Microsoft is asking for from C2000 and Bell Micro is what we have been doing since the back end of last year,” he said.

Alfie Boucherd, Microsoft product manager at security VAR Caretower, said any programme that encourages greater interaction between distributors and resellers is a “very positive” one.