wpc 2018 microsoft

Introduction

The Worldwide Partner Conference (WPC) in 2018 was a pivotal event for Microsoft, marking a significant shift in its strategy to empower partners and drive innovation across various sectors. Held annually, this conference serves as a platform for Microsoft to announce new products, services, and strategic partnerships, all aimed at enhancing its ecosystem. In 2018, the company unveiled several groundbreaking initiatives that had far-reaching implications for its partners and the broader technology landscape.

New Products and Services Announced

One of the major highlights of WPC 2018 was the unveiling of Microsoft’s new products and services. Among these was the launch of Microsoft 365 Business, designed specifically for small businesses. This comprehensive suite integrates Office 365, Windows 10, and Enterprise Mobility + Security into one package, offering seamless collaboration tools and enhanced security features tailored for smaller organizations. The introduction of Microsoft 365 Business underscored the company’s commitment to providing tailored solutions for diverse customer segments, thereby enriching the partner ecosystem by creating new opportunities for service delivery and support.

Strategic Partnerships Highlighted

In addition to product launches, Microsoft announced several strategic partnerships at WPC 2018 that aimed to bolster its offerings and expand its reach. One notable partnership was with LinkedIn, which aimed to integrate LinkedIn data into Dynamics 365, enabling businesses to gain deeper insights into their customers. This move not only strengthened Microsoft’s CRM capabilities but also provided partners with a robust platform to offer value-added services. Furthermore, the partnership with SAP to improve interoperability between Azure and SAP HANA further cemented Microsoft’s position as a leading cloud provider, opening up new avenues for partners specializing in enterprise applications.

Impact on the Partner Ecosystem

The announcements made at WPC 2018 had a profound impact on the partner ecosystem. By introducing new products like Microsoft 365 Business, Microsoft created a fertile ground for partners to offer specialized services, thus driving growth and innovation within the channel. Strategic partnerships, such as those with LinkedIn and SAP, opened up new markets and enhanced the capabilities of existing offerings, enabling partners to deliver more comprehensive solutions. These initiatives not only strengthened the relationship between Microsoft and its partners but also fostered a collaborative environment that encouraged innovation and mutual success.

Reference

Microsoft WPC 2018 Keynote