IT systems and communications distributor Comztek is the first Microsoft finished goods distributor in SA to be certified under the Microsoft Partner Programme (MSPP). This move has formed an integral part of Comztek`s strategy to offer more value-added services to channel partners.
With its strength in the Microsoft licensing field, Comztek is well positioned to offer expert support and access to advanced skills to resellers in the complex arena of software licensing.
Calvin van Wyk, Microsoft product manager at Comztek, says that with Microsoft`s close assistance and support, Comztek has joined the Microsoft Partner Programme and is working towards achieving the Licensing Solutions competency later this year.
"The changes to the Microsoft partner model introduced last year are geared towards creating more specialisation in the market. This ultimately benefits end-users and smaller resellers. When end-users or resellers engage with any Microsoft partner, they can expect a certain level of expertise in accordance with that partner`s competency accreditation.
"As a distributor, we will play a supportive role by providing expertise and products to the reseller as necessary. By establishing our competencies, we are offering access to top-level skills that are rare in the market," he says.
As a Licensing Solutions Certified Partner, Comztek will be able to offer Software Asset Management (SAM) and Microsoft Licensing Managed Partner (MLMP) auditing services. SAM solutions partners have a solid understanding of the different types of licence programmes, as well as detailed knowledge of best practice when it comes to purchasing of these licensing programmes. Partners are geared towards helping small to medium businesses and enterprise size customers ensure that they comply with their Microsoft licensing requirements.
Van Wyk notes that the new Microsoft competency-based partner model means additional investment protection for end-users - they can be confident of a roll-out that is properly scoped, managed and deployed.
In line with the increased specialisation that the new competency-based partner programme introduces, Van Wyk says there is more opportunity for partnering within the software provision industry.
"Solutions for the modern business can be complex, hence the move to specialisation. Because very few solution providers can offer services across all the Microsoft competencies, it is logical that joint ventures and partnerships will be needed to address customer requirements," he says.
As part of its drive to raise awareness that Comztek does more than simply distribute Microsoft software, Comztek is running a `Join our World` competition where every reseller that spends more than R5 000 on Microsoft products is entered into a weekly draw for prizes. These include Microsoft hardware products, while one winner will walk away with a grand prize of a R40 000 holiday.
"We`ve had a great response to date and have already announced several weekly winners. The grand draw will take place in June this year," he adds.
"When resellers purchase their Microsoft products from Comztek, they can expect not only Comztek`s comprehensive support, but a partnership approach to growing their businesses. We also provide value-added services such as Microsoft technical support, software management and licensing solutions, along with exceptional customer service and expertise," he concludes.
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