Who is eligible for a Microsoft Action Pack?
I’ve posted before on the Microsoft Action Pack but a Partner contacted me recently to get clarification on who is allowed to apply and use them.
Firstly, what is a Microsoft Action Pack Subscription (MAPS)?
It is a kit that contains new software releases, as well as updated sales and marketing materials that are designed to help those who are eligible to receive it, stay competitive, meet your sales goals, and grow your business.
Okay, so who is eligible?
The Microsoft Action Pack Subscription is designed for all business whose primary function is to:
- Sell, service, support, or
- To build solutions on the Microsoft platform to provide solutions based on Microsoft products and technologies to independent, third-party customers.
Examples of qualifying businesses include:
- Accounting professionals
- Consulting service providers
- Independent Software Vendors (ISVs)
- Independent Hardware Vendors
- Large Account Resellers (LARs)
- Original Equipment Manufactuers (OEMs)
- Small Business Specialists
- Support Providers
- System Integrators
- System Builders
- Training providers
- Web designers
- Value-added resellers (VARs)
- and, value-added providers that sell more than 75% of their products and services to customers outside their own company.
Examples of non-qualifying entities include: nonprofit organisations, academic institutions, students, Government offices and businesses whose primary focus is not IT related.
Specific types of businesses whose primary focus is non-IT related but that have significant influence on technology purchases, may qualify to participate in the MAPs.
So that means nearly everyone can have a MAP and therefore won’t have to pay the full license price anymore?
No. For example, if you are an Accounting practice looking to develop a CRM solution for commercial purposes and it would pull through sales of Microsoft (i.e. they are planning to resell it once they’ve built it and it runs on Small Business Server) then that would class them as an ISV and eligble for the Action Pack. HOWEVER, if they are looking to create their own internal CRM solution then they would not be eligible.
I have a specific situation that I would like to ask about.
Email Microsoft at regmember@msdirectservices.com where the team will be able to help and advise if you find yourself questioning whether you are eligible or if you come across a business that you are unsure as to their qualification.
Please remember that all new Action packs not only need the Partner to agree to the Ts&Cs but also take an assessment. Microsoft can cancel any Action Pack Subscription if they believe a non-Partner has purchased it.
Microsoft Office Accounting will not be available in UK MAPs (unlike US) until the product has been officially released at the end of March/April.
Vista changes in the Action Pack
Order your MAPs (you must be a Microsoft Partner to access this)
Partner TV (Australia) What is the Microsoft Action Pack?