Here’s a question recently asked by a client to one of our Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online consultants: “What is a Partner of Record?”
You may come across the phrase if dealing direct with Microsoft, for example enquiring about a product or filling in a form for a software trial. If you request a free trial of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online from a Microsoft website, you will almost certainly be asked for your Partner of Record.
So what is it?
Quite simply, Partner of Record usually refers to your Microsoft business partner: the company that supplied and implemented your Microsoft software and services. They will usually be a Microsoft Certified Business Partner (there are various levels and types of these), specialising in the application or area you’re working in. For example, Concentrix is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner specialising in CRM and ERP solutions, and has achieved both Gold and Silver status in Customer Relationship Management (plus other competencies).
Concentrix recommends working with an accredited or certified business partner as they will be able to work closely with you on your project and provide a wide range of professional services in addition to the services you receive from Microsoft. These include advice, training, technical and application development, configurations and customisation, support and much more.
Working with a Microsoft Business Partner significantly increases the chances of your project being successful and delivering ROI in the shortest time. For ERP or CRM software projects in particular, we strongly advise against trying to deploy the products without working with a qualified, experienced business partner (in fact you may not be able to purchase licences unless you do).
It’s important to note that working with a Microsoft partner or specifying a partner of record does not change the fees you pay to Microsoft. Also it doesn’t change or limit the support you receive from Microsoft. If your business partner supplies additional services, they will of course be able to quote for these.
If you’re unsure who your partner of record is, and you’ve asked around within your own organisation, you could try contacting Microsoft direct and they may already have your partner of record listed. If you haven’t worked with Microsoft Business Partner before, a good way to find one locally or with the relevant specialism you need is to search the Microsoft PinPoint site. A search on Google or Bing will also usually deliver the results you need.
If you have been working with, or previously worked with a particular business and want to continue working with them, it is important to state them as your partner of record when interacting with Microsoft; otherwise they may assign another partner to you.
Concentrix is an independent UK CRM specialist. For further information about the software and solutions we offer, please contact Concentrix.
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