When you’re considering Microsoft products, you may come across the term ‘Microsoft Partner’. There are many Microsoft Partners across the world, offering support and deployment across Microsoft technologies to businesses of all shapes and sizes.

But what does a Microsoft Partner mean? Why are they different from dealing with Microsoft directly? And most importantly, how can they help your business to achieve its goals?

We delve into everything you need to know about Microsoft Partners in this guide.

What is a Microsoft Partner?

Simply put, a Microsoft Partner is a company that has specialised expertise in Microsoft products and services. They should have a deep technical knowledge across technologies like Microsoft 365, Dynamics, Power Platform, Azure, Copilot and more.

They will also usually have proven experience in implementing and supporting these technologies, alongside certifications and accreditations from Microsoft.

Partners act as an extension of Microsoft, bridging the gap between their solutions and customers. In most scenarios, businesses are unable to get software directly from Microsoft and instead will need to seek out a relevant Partner.

By leveraging a network of Partners, Microsoft can reach more people. Partners focus on serving them directly, enabling clients to get the benefits of Microsoft solutions alongside hands-on support that offers them even more value.

The benefit of working with a Partner is that you can access tailored solutions. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, Partners can alter Microsoft solutions to meet the unique needs and challenges of individual businesses.

Partners also act as trusted advisors, guiding customers through the complexities of adopting and utilising Microsoft technologies effectively. This often involves needs assessments to uncover goals and challenges, customised solution design, support during implementation and integration, and ongoing assistance to maintain your software long-term.

The benefits of working with a Microsoft Partner_

Working with a Microsoft Partner brings many benefits that can make your project run smoother and offer better long-term rewards. These benefits include:

1. Access to specialised expertise_

Partners have in-depth knowledge across Microsoft solutions, meaning they can guide you accurately. This starts by helping you to choose the best software for your specific business goals and providing practical tips for implementing it.

2. Faster time to value_

By utilising the skills of a Microsoft Partner, you can also accelerate project timelines. They will be highly experienced in implementation, which can minimise disruption and keep everything smooth sailing.

As a Partner will ensure you have chosen the best solution and embedded it correctly, alongside providing useful tips to add value, you’ll achieve return on investment faster. This allows you to get more from your software – and also makes you look great to leadership!

In many cases, they’ll have already worked with businesses like yours to tackle similar challenges, so they know the best practice to follow. With this experience, they can help you to avoid common mistakes that you may make going the project alone.

3. Reduce costs_

A Partner should ensure the deployment of your chosen solutions is done right first time. This enables you to optimise your budget and avoid costly errors or rework.

You can also take advantage of potential cost savings through Partner programs. Your Partner will be able to take you through any funding available or discounts, if available.

4. Enhanced support_

Your Partner can also provide ongoing support and maintenance, helping you to manage your Microsoft solution long-term. You’ll get prompt assistance for any issues or questions, which can help to minimise downtime and keep productivity up.

This makes your Microsoft solution work harder for you long-term, preventing the need for further digital transformation projects and generating greater business value.

How to choose the right Microsoft Partner_

Selecting the right Microsoft Partner is crucial for the success of your projects. Below, we’ve listed everything you need to consider before choosing yours. You can also search for Microsoft Partners here, including by location or industry.

1. Experience and expertise_

You’ll want a Partner with proven experience in delivering projects like yours. If you already have a specific solution in mind, you’ll want to find a company with expertise in that specific technology. If you aren’t sure what you need, it may be worth speaking with a few Partners to find out their views and which aligns with your goals best.

Another consideration is whether a Partner has a track record in your specific industry. Look at who they’ve worked with before and ask industry-relevant questions to uncover their knowledge and whether they know your sector well enough.

Finally, remember to evaluate their depth of knowledge in the Microsoft technologies relevant to your needs. Ultimately, you want someone who is going to guide you through the process, with a full understanding of your needs and goals. This is something you’ll get a feel for once you talk to the Partner, allowing you to make an informed decision.

2. Customer references and testimonials_

You want to choose a Partner you trust to bring your project to fruition. Reviewing their customer references and testimonials is a great way to establish this trust.

Request case studies and testimonials from previous clients, so you can see how that Partner has delivered success in other businesses. Ideally, these will be similar organisations to yours or facing similar challenges.

If you can, try to speak to one of their past clients to gain insights into their experience.

You can also check things like reviews, customer satisfaction scores to determine the reputation of the Partner and how highly they’re rated for their service.

3. Certifications and accreditations_

Most Partners should hold Microsoft certifications and accreditations. However, the level of these certifications and what they cover will vary.

Certifications demonstrate their expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards. So, ideally, you want certification in the technology you are utilising or relevant services you’ll be using them for.

On top of this, you should look for Partners with specialised competencies in areas relevant to your needs. Most should display this publicly on their website.

4. Communication and project management approach_

Next, you’ll want to evaluate the Partner’s communication style and project management approach. They should have a clear and consistent communication plan, alongside a structured and organised approach to project delivery.

Their testimonials and references will help you to determine their approach. We also recommend speaking to them and ideally having them pitch themselves, as this will enable you to uncover how they approach projects and whether it gels with your business.

5. Alignment with goals and values_

For a positive working relationship, it’s critical to choose a Partner that aligns with your business goals and values. They need to share your commitment to customer satisfaction, innovation and ethical business practices.

Again, open conversation should uncover whether your values align. A good Partner should ask about your goals, as this will tailor their approach moving forward and how the project runs.

The more time you spend with the Partner, the more you’ll understand whether you align or not.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a Microsoft Partner that will be an asset to your business and help you achieve your goals.

Why you should choose Infinity Group as your Microsoft Partner_

We’re proud to be one of the largest independently owned Microsoft Partners in the UK. We’ve already worked with countless businesses, across industries, to bring their change projects to life.

Our experts cover all core Microsoft technologies, including Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, Power Platform and Copilot, along with key Microsoft cyber security and data solutions. This enables us to leverage best practice across these solutions, delivering customised deployments that progress your goals and offer evergreen results.

We’ve also gained multiple accreditations and acknowledgements from Microsoft over the years. These include:

• Microsoft accreditations across six core areas: Cloud, Modern Work, Digital & App Innovation (Azure), Data & AI (Azure), Infrastructure (Azure), Security and Business Applications
• Three Microsoft Advanced Specialisations in Small and Medium Business Management, Low Code Application Development and Sales
• Inner Circle membership – awarded to only the top 1% of partners and granting us exclusive access to insights and announcements
• Finalist for Partner of the Year (Business Central) in 2024

Most crucially, we’re passionate about supporting businesses like yours. We’ll guide you through the process, from discovering the right solution for your goals and assessing needs, to technical implementation and user adoption. We also offer IT expertise that could support your long-term maintenance and ease the burden on your business.

If it sounds like we could help you, we’re ready to hear from you. Just get in touch below to arrange an initial, informal discussion with one of our consultants, with no commitment required.