When you invest in a Microsoft Dynamics ERP solution, you enjoy a strong relationship both with Microsoft and with your local reseller and implementation partner. You can choose from a variety of support and service plans depending on the specific product edition, the third-party solutions and services offered by your local partner. The following table explains the roles of Microsoft and your local partner in the sale, implementation, and support of Microsoft Dynamics ERP.
Role of Microsoft and the partner in the Microsoft Dynamics ERP selling process | Microsoft | Certified Microsoft Dynamics Partner |
|---|
Pre-Sales Support | | |
Help you understand licensing options and pricing models | X | X |
Help you find a local implementation partner | X | |
Determine product pricing | | X |
Offer financing arrangements | | X |
Solution Implementation | | |
Deploy and configure ERP solution1 | | X |
Customize solution2 | | X |
Localize and translate ERP solutions | X3 | X4 |
Licensing Agreements | | |
Hold licensing agreement for core ERP product | X | |
Hold licensing agreement for customizations, 3rd party add-ins and solutions5 | | X |
Technical Support and Training | | |
Support for core ERP products | X6 | X |
Product maintenance | | X |
Support for customizations and add-ins | | X |
Product-Specific Training and Certification | X | X |
When you’re ready to meet with a Microsoft Dynamics partner, contact your local Microsoft Dynamics Sales Office. If you are located in the United States or Canada, contact a Microsoft representative directly. Your local Microsoft representative will try to understand your business and the challenges you face and put you in touch with a partner or partners best suited to help you succeed.
1Microsoft partners are solely responsible for the configurations and customizations they create and/or implement for customers.
2Microsoft does not make any representation, guarantee, warranty (express, implied or otherwise) or assurance about the performance or suitability of partner-created solutions or any support or other services provided for partner-created solutions, including partner services provided for Microsoft Dynamics ERP software.
3Microsoft provides localized versions of Microsoft Dynamics ERP in specific languages. For details visit:
http://www.microsoft.com/en-hk/dynamics/products/ax-availability.aspx
http://www.microsoft.com/en-hk/dynamics/products/nav-availability.aspx
4Authorized Microsoft partners may make partner-created localizations and/or translations of Microsoft Dynamics ERP available in countries where Microsoft does not provide a localized or translated version.
5Customizations and third-party code are not subject to Microsoft’s Software License Terms. Partner-created solutions are owned, supported and serviced by, or on behalf of, the originating authorized partner. Please contact your partner for more information about partner-created solutions or utilize Solution Finder to identify authorized partner solutions that may be available in your region.
6To learn about service and technical support plans available for supported versions of Microsoft Dynamics solutions, visit http://www.microsoft.com/en-hk/dynamics/service-plans.aspx.
What to look for in an IT partner
As you meet with partners, here are some criteria to consider.
Is the partner certified on Microsoft Dynamics? Certified Microsoft Dynamics partners, with proven expertise, are available worldwide to help companies of all sizes and industries select and implement the right business technology—and to provide support through future business changes.
Is the partner authorized to sell Microsoft Dynamics solutions? Not all partners are authorized to resell Microsoft Dynamics. Only certified partners with a current Solution Provider Agreement (SPA) have the rights to process orders with Microsoft for the benefit of customers.
Will the partner provide references? Ask the partner for a list of reference customers in your industry who will answer questions and provide written references to you.
Is the partner's business stable? Be sure the partner is a stable business with the technical infrastructure and staff necessary to deploy a solution within your time frame. After the partner implements the business solution, be sure they will support your IT staff and address any problems that might arise.
Is the partner an expert in your industry? Be sure the partner demonstrates a clear understanding of your business concerns and your industry. Your partner should suggest strategies and develop your business solution proactively with you.
Does the partner clearly consider the features and components you need? The software solution proposed by the partner should address your specific business requirements. For example, be sure the solution will work with the database, portal, and business intelligence solutions you intend to use.
Are the partner's consultants technologically proficient? Make sure the partner uses a proven implementation methodology and tools for implementation, configuration, and upgrades. Be sure the consultants who will implement your solution have the appropriate certifications for the solution you choose.
