Lightedge, a national IT solutions and services company, has achieved Microsoft Gold Certified Partner status in the competency OEM Hardware Solutions.
Representing Microsoft's highest endorsement of a partner to its customers, Lightedge is one of only a handful of Gold Certified hardware providers in Africa, in contrast to software-only skills held by most Gold Partners.
This accreditation formally recognises Lightedge as having superior levels of knowledge, skills and commitment required to build hardware solutions running Microsoft software.
"Lightedge has forged a long and trusting relationship with Microsoft over the years, first qualifying as an authorised OEM and then later as a Platinum Partner in OEM. Our commitment to Microsoft's Gold Partner requirements underlines our ability to deliver exceptional Microsoft technology skills to the South African and international markets," says David Musikanth, Marketing Director at Lightedge.
Gold Partner Certification is a stringent test, verified by Microsoft, ensuring partners can provide reliable hardware platforms, delivering a superior end-user experience. Using the "Certified for Windows Vista" logos sends a strong signal to end-users about the quality and compatibility of the product, enabling partners to benefit from continued investment in this operating system. Support costs can also be dramatically reduced and warranty periods extended due to the synergy between hardware and software.
To qualify as a Gold Certified Partner, Lightedge had to obtain a certain number of points confirming the necessary expertise internally. Lightedge employs Microsoft Certified Professionals, Microsoft Certified Solution Developers and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers, adding to the experience required to address customers' most critical needs. Additional points were earned through customer references where customers acknowledge the value Lightedge has brought to their business.
Lightedge's Gold Partner status will allow access to more specialised support, tools and software to grow the company faster over the years to come. Its products and services are also listed on "Microsoft Marketplace", a central area where companies worldwide can gain access to solutions.
"Microsoft will benefit from Lightedge's accreditation by gaining another strategic partner as it brings new products to market. Its accreditation means Lightedge is successfully competing with the 'big guys', adding value to our customers and delivering reliable and powerful hardware solutions that underpin our business-critical software offerings. Microsoft works closely with its local partners to build skills that allow our customers to push the limits of what modern technology can achieve," says Hanno Vermeulen, Partner Account Manager at Microsoft South Africa.
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