Microsoft relaxes partner programme requirements

The vendor giant says it will back the channel with increased incentives

Microsoft has adjusted its partner programmes to give the channel more support amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a blog post, partner boss, Gavriella Schuster (pictured), said Microsoft will be giving skills competency extensions across some of it products, such as Teams and Azure.

"We've heard from many partners that it's challenging to meet requirements and renew existing competencies in the current climate," she said.

"To help you focus on supporting your customers, if your competency anniversary date is between 1 January and 30 June 2020, we are extending your existing competency or competencies through your next anniversary date in 2021."

The vendor will also increase partner incentives such as ramping up online training and certifications, and offer more access to digital marketing resources, effective from 1 April 1 through to 30 September.

"We have increased the incentives pay out at the 15 per cent milestone for all qualified entitlements for non-FastTrack partners, and added a new incentive pay out at the lowest qualified entitlement level for FastTrack partners," she said.

Schuster added that Microsoft may continue to make changes as the situation develops.

"Every day, we are learning more and more about the global impact of the coronavirus," she said.

"Today, more than ever, we need to collaborate and co-innovate to meet those customers' needs. For our part, that means ensuring that we're giving you the support you need in the weeks and months to come."