Recently Microsoft announced it would be providing more assistance for small business solution providers in the form of new local business development managers.  As the company has re-envisioned its partner programs, it seems to be responding to some past complaints from the small business sector about its support and the structure of its programs not always being small-business friendly.    

IT consultants and other solution providers in the small business sector have expressed concern about Microsoft’s partner programs and about the fitness of Microsoft solutions to their unique business model, particularly in light of the new focus of the large company on its “Software as a Service” offerings.  Microsoft says it will put 10 new local business development managers across the United States to help solution providers enhance their services to small businesses.  The managers will assist with marketing support and demand generation and will also provide organized events for small business solution providers.  

Mark Crall, president of the Charlotte Tech Care Team, a Microsoft Small Business Specialist located in North Carolina is excited about having some of his fears quelled.  He thinks that this new initiative for solution providers shows that Microsoft is genuinely interested in the small business sector.

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