Friday 26 June 2009

Microsoft takes a step towards building UC expertise with consultants and integrators

The Unified Communications Group at Microsoft just announced the Microsoft Unified Communications Consultant Program (UCCP), a program designed to provide consultants with resources and tools to build and enhance expertise with Microsoft UC solutions. The program will offer forums to forge and cultivate key relationships with Microsoft subject matter experts, dedicated program lead from MSFT and loads of marketing support.

Depending on the resources Microsoft will push towards the UCCP (I doubt it will be nothing short of significant), this is a brilliant move. Given that IT consulting firms and system integrators are heavy influencers of VoIP & unified communication, other UC vendors need to step it up and enhance the capabilities of its channel partners. The UC space is getting very competitive and integrators and solutions providers will align with vendors that help them develop the right skills and expertise.

Who is next?