Microsoft extends Solution Incentive programme

Partners told current iteration of deal registration scheme will run until 31 December

Microsoft claims its decision to extend the current version of its Solutions Incentive programme (SIP) by six months will provide partners with more opportunity and continuity.

The vendor launched SIP last year, allowing partners holding Microsoft Partner Network (MPN) competencies in high-growth areas of its portfolio to bag up to 30 per cent extra margin for registering deals. This currently comprises Management and Virtualisation, Application Platform/SQL, Windows Enterprise and Lync.

Partners were previously told the current iteration would run to 30 June but this has been extended to 31 December.

In a blog post, Ross Brown, WPG vice president, partner strategy at Microsoft, said the fact that policies, eligible product lists and rates would stay the same would be "great news" for those who have already made the investment.

"You have more than six months to continue selling and earning the same incentives you have been this past year. Let's go after that business," he added.

Brown also announced the eligible MPN competencies for participation after 1 January. Next year's programme will reward partners in the most relevant competencies organised by solution workloads – Management and Virtualisation, Application Platform, Windows Enterprise and MDOP and Lync – he revealed.