Cloud

What Is Microsoft’s Cloud Solution Provider Program and How Does It Help SMBs?

Small businesses can buy solutions in several different ways, but a technology partner can help teams get more value in the long run.

Melissa Priore

Melissa Priore is a Microsoft cloud solution provider program manager with a proven track record of driving success with Microsoft cloud solutions at CDW.

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While small and medium-sized businesses can purchase Microsoft services directly, they may face challenges with setup, license management and ongoing support. These hurdles can diminish the long-term value of their investment, which is why many SMBs choose Microsoft’s Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program through CDW. This program provides Microsoft 365 and Azure IT admin capabilities and tools to assist in the management of their cloud environment and adoption of the solutions.

SMBs also gain access to additional value-adds such as proactive security monitoring, expert management of workloads and 24/7 support.

Here’s a high-level breakdown of the program and its offerings:

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Understanding Microsoft’s CSP Program

The Microsoft CSP program allows businesses to procure Microsoft cloud solutions, including Microsoft 365 and Azure, through CDW rather than directly from Microsoft. CDW then takes on critical responsibilities such as billing, provisioning assistance and technical support. And unlike traditional licensing agreements, the CSP program provides flexible commitment and billing options so SMBs can start with one license, scale up as needed and upgrade their solutions at any time.

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The Business Benefits of a CSP Program

Choosing a CSP partner can greatly enhance cloud management and improve a SMB’s success in integrating AI and emerging tech. Here are the highlights:

Flexible licensing options. A CSP program eliminates licensing restrictions by allowing businesses to scale up or down without penalty. Customers can opt for annual commitments that can be billed upfront or monthly. Unlike enterprise agreements that require long-term commitments, CSP offers flexibility and allows access to Microsoft’s robust cloud capabilities.

Built in security and compliance. All CSP customers get access to Inscape, CDW’s proprietary cloud management platform, which includes reporting that provides insights into an organization’s cloud security posture. CDW’s premium managed service offering for Azure CSP customers includes proactive monitoring to detect vulnerabilities before they become major security incidents. CDW also offers security assessments and workshops to help businesses evaluate and improve their overall cloud security posture.

Maximize AI investments in the cloud. AI is one of the biggest growth areas in cloud adoption. CSP customers can take advantage of unlimited end-user training for Microsoft Copilot through Inscape so employees can become comfortable with adopting the solution. This is a game changer for SMBs looking to layer AI solutions in the cloud.

Support in Hybrid and On-Prem Environments. While cloud support in Microsoft 365 and Azure comes at no additional cost for customers purchasing these solutions through the CSP program, the CDW Technology Support service can provide additional support for SMBs with hybrid and on-premises Microsoft solutions, such as Windows Server and SQL Server.

Specific Features of the CDW and Microsoft CSP Program

CDW’s CSP program offers several key value-adds designed to make cloud adoption and management easier for IT leaders.

1. 24/7/365 U.S.-Based Support

To set itself apart from other CSP partners, CDW delivers Tier 1 through Tier 3 break-fix cloud support at no additional cost for Microsoft 365 customers. This means IT teams can rely on immediate assistance for admin-related challenges. For Azure customers, CDW offers a tiered support model that starts with 8x5 support included in the Basic tier and includes 24/7/365 support under its Essentials and Premium tiers. Should any support scenario require the assistance of Microsoft, CDW will escalate on behalf of CSP customers.

2. Self-Service Subscription Management

CDW's Rubi platform simplifies the management of Microsoft 365 subscriptions by providing a streamlined portal where customers can plan, procure, and manage their technology with greater confidence and less complexity. Rubi allows customers to add seats, upgrade plans, view invoices and co-term renewal dates with ease.

3. Cloud Management and Backup Solutions

CDW’s Inscape platform simplifies financial management and improves visibility into Azure cloud consumption. Customers can monitor costs, spot trends, create and manage budgets, and receive custom alerts. Through the CSP program, Microsoft 365 customers can also get unlimited managed backup and restore services easily added to their subscriptions.

Whether you’re a small business taking your first step into cloud services or are hoping to accelerate cloud workloads with AI, Microsoft’s CSP program can help you compete and succeed.

This article is part of BizTech's AgilITy blog series.