Google intros cloud partner platform

cloud services is now known as the Google Cloud Platform, and to get everyone used to the idea, the search giant has kicked off a partner programme for companies that can help customers use the cloudy offerings, The Register reports.

Google began rolling out the new branding in June, but the Google Cloud Platform is really just a new umbrella for the Chocolate Factory's established cloud services, including App Engine, BigQuery and Cloud Storage, plus its new Compute Engine infrastructure service, which debuted at the Google I/O developer conference, in June.

WebProNews states the programme allows for two different types of partners: service partners and technology partners. The former provide consulting and implementation services on various Google Cloud Platform products, and the latter provide tools that integrate with Google's platform or use one of its services as the foundation for their products.

The Google Cloud Platform Partner Program will provide "our partners with the tools, training and resources they need to successfully address your business' IT needs", wrote Eric Morse, who is head of sales and business development for the Google Cloud Platform, in a blog entry announcing the programme, IDG notes.

As with most IT partnerships, however, Google partners expect the company to provide sales leads and give assistance as the partners pursue their own possible leads. Google could also provide early access and engineering expertise for new technologies.