Microsoft launches cloud adoption program for SMBs

Microsoft has rolled out a new cloud adoption program for small and medium businesses (SMBs) in India.  SMBs can now adopt value-added solutions and offerings supporting their specific requirements on the cloud through Microsoft ‘Cloud Solution Providers (CSP)’.  Cloud Solution Providers are partners who build solutions leveraging Microsoft cloud for SMBs across the country on a pay-as-you-go model.

This program enables SMBs to work with a CSP of their choice for various IT requirements. The CSP will own the complete customer life cycle, provide direct billing, offer combined and customized solutions, directly provision, as well as manage and support Microsoft cloud offerings for their customers.

The program will enhance value to SMBs and expand business opportunities for them and the CSPs.  It will allow CSPs to own the complete customer relationship – starting with understanding customer requirements, designing customized solutions and offers with Office 365, easy billing and support. SMBs will benefit from the subscription-based payment model that will ease their OpEx pressures.

Karan Bajwa, Managing Director, Microsoft India, said, “Cloud adoption in India is growing in triple digit percentage year-on-year.  The new Microsoft Cloud Solution Providers will make SMBs more competitive with enterprise-grade technology and value-added services from Microsoft cloud.”

“Our partners in India work closely with SMBs and understand their specific requirements and challenges. Microsoft Cloud Solution Providers will make it easier for SMBs to adopt the cloud in a manner relevant, financially viable and most beneficial for their business”, said Meetul Patel, General Manager, SMS&P, Microsoft India.

Microsoft has launched the program with seven CSPs in India - GlobalOutlook, ZNetLive, Trimax IT Infrastructure and Services Limited, Sify Technologies, Emkor, Opto Telelinks Limited and XcellHost Cloud Services. Details of the service offerings currently available from these CSPs is appended.  This number is expected to grow over time with more partners becoming Cloud Solution Providers.