The JSE-listed IT-based business enabling solutions provider, Square One Solutions Group, has been awarded Microsoft Gold Partner certification to add to its accreditation as a Microsoft Small Business Specialist.
Gold Partner is the highest Microsoft certification and is conferred upon partners who achieve high levels of competency in the provision of technical solutions and/or revenue generation.
Square One systems solutions architect Adrian Boyd said that as the company is not a licence reseller, it had achieved the gold certification based solely on its competency and ability to deliver Microsoft solutions to a broad business user base.
"Achieving gold certification on competency alone requires hard work and serious commitment. The process takes time because there is also a customer reference element through which Microsoft checks and verifies with customers the standard of the solutions that we have implemented for them."
He added that Square One had achieved its certification based on customer references and the number of Microsoft Certified Professionals (MSCPs), Microsoft Certified Engineers (MSCEs) and other appropriately qualified people employed by the company.
"It is critical to have qualified competent staff, with the ability to deal efficiently with increasingly complex technologies and systems. Typically the work that we do covers a wide spectrum of needs in the information, communication and telecommunications sector. Our focus is on advanced infrastructure solutions within which we deliver and integrate Microsoft technologies for the enterprise market."
The status of Gold Partner certification is dynamically monitored by Microsoft and partners therefore work hard to maintain it. Boyd said companies look for solutions providers with Gold Partner status because it underlines competency and credibility. "It tells the market that we have the skills, resources and the ability to deliver on the solutions we offer."
Square One chief operating officer Craig Alexander said the certification has added impetus to the company's IP2 (IP Squared) client engagement strategy and service management process, NetFlex. Both are geared to producing results and adding tangible value for customers, suppliers and partners.
"The market needs a networking infrastructure integrator which closes knowledge gaps in the convergence of voice, data, video and image as well as converging services from entertainment, media, telecommunications and cellular companies.
"We are well positioned as such an integrator, and our Microsoft Gold Partner Certification confirms Square One has the know-how, capability and competence to design, install, commission and support integrated solutions, particularly as an effective policy to govern their interaction is absolutely critical. Microsoft is also the overwhelming product of choice at present, so this competency takes on strategic importance."
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Square One Solutions Group is listed on the Software & Computer Services sector of the JSE Securities Exchange. It focuses on providing IT-based business enabling solutions, has a national footprint and more than 20 years of experience in the South African market. Square One Solutions offers value-based solutions centred around IP infrastructure solutions, policy solutions, power solutions, product coding and marking solutions, mobile and wireless solutions, storage, telecommunications and service provider solutions to its key target market of enterprise, SME, corporate and government clients. The company also distributes document solutions, colour input and output devices and provides 24x7 national support and service. For more information, visit www.sq1.co.za.
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