Microsoft has become the latest vendor to launch an online networking community for partners as it officially unveiled its Microsoft Partner Network (MPN) in the UK.

The virtual collaboration tool allows resellers to connect with each other to access skills, expertise and resources as well as collaborate on potential business projects.

The MPN has built up 1,400 UK members since its beta launch in February and Microsoft claims that 150 to 200 partners are joining every month. The site features a range of virtual networks, including those defined by vertical focus, geographical location, product set or topic of interest.

Simon Gautrey, group manager of audience marketing and strategy at Microsoft UK, said: “A partner can create a conversation about a possible contract by saying it has experience around SharePoint, but does not have the vertical experience needed for that customer.

Partners with experience can contact the network and offer advice or suggest an agreement,” he explained.
Andrew Bel-Dean, senior technology manager at IT consultancy F1 Group said the community allowed it to pitch and secure a five-figure contract with a firm needing a warehouse infrastructure upgrade.

“F1 Group did not want to turn down the contract as it could supply the customer with most things it needed, apart from Microsoft Dynamics,” Bel-Dean said.

“Partners cannot be expected to be an expert in Microsoft’s entire portfolio as it is too wide.”
Matthew Clothier, chairman of Static Burst, said: “MPN will help us to find new contacts and stay in touch with those we know.”