Those of you how know Sarah Arnold, would know how tirelessly she works to assist Partners and to improve the experience for committed Microsoft Partners. Many of you may have recently met Sarah for the first time at the recent Microsoft Partner Network roadshow or at the Australian Partner Conference on the Gold Coast.
The transition from the current Partner Program to the Partner Network looks like being a very positive one for partners and our customers and Sarah is driving these broad changes at a local level.
So I'm excited to be able to tell you that in recognition of her hard work and commitment to partners, Sarah will be attending the Microsoft Partner Program Managers in Paris from 28 September. This summit brings together Partner Program Managers from around the world to work on the final details about launching MPN and giving feedback on advance competencies, benefits and more.
This is a great opportunity for Sarah but also for us as partners, as Sarah takes our feedback to this event for discussion and action.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Awesome Brisbane Event for Microsoft Office Devs and Power Users
UQ will play host to OfficeDevCon a from 31 October - 1 November. This is the third year for the event which will feature Microsoft and industry experts from around the world who will present advanced topics the following products.
- Access
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- InfoPath
- Groove
- SharePoint
and more....
Find out more about it here.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Get Ready for Microsoft Pinpoint
Thanks to the awesomely hardworking Sarah Arnold of Microsoft , Australian Partners will soon be able to take advantage of Pinpoint, the fantastic new tool which will replace the very average Find a Partner we currently have in Australia.
Australia will be one of only four Microsoft subsidiaries to have Pinpoint and I'm optimistic it will be a good source of leads of partners for small and medium business focussed partners who take advantage of its capabilities.
To get things rolling, Microsoft have a special offer for partners who want to prepare for the launch of Pinpoint in 2010 - here are the details:
Prepare your company for the launch of Microsoft Pinpoint in Australia
Get a free professionally written company profile
Microsoft Pinpoint is Microsoft’s unified online business marketplace. It is designed to help customers find the right Microsoft Partner to enable them reach their business goals. To prepare for the 2010 launch of Microsoft Pinpoint, we’re giving your business the chance to shine by helping you create a promotional blurb to upload into the Partner Solution Profile tool.
To qualify for this offer you must:
Be a qualified Small Business Specialist within the Microsoft Partner Network, with a head-office in Australia.
Fully complete the template below to the best of your ability before sending it through.
The first 40 fully completed templates that we receive will be eligible. You will be notified if your request has been successful.
6 Steps to Creating your Profile
Download and complete the template.
Send the template to libby@writeminded.com.au with Solution Profiler in the subject line.
If your template is one of the first 40 received, you’ll receive confirmation of your request with an indication of the production time.
Final copy will then be sent back to you, which you’re free to amend yourself.
The final step is for you to upload your completed copy into the Solution Profiler tool under ‘Solution Description’.
Work with a leading online copywriter
To help you create a great profile, Microsoft has engaged the services of write-minded Pty Ltd director and online communications consultant, Libby Varcoe. Libby was one of Australia’s first online copywriters. Her clients include True Local, Optus, Qantas, ninemsn, MBF, The NSW Premier’s Department and The National Museum of Australia. Libby also runs web writing workshops for the Department of State and Regional Development’s small business program. She has helped hundreds of businesses like yours find and express their voice online. For more information about write-minded visit: http://www.writeminded.com.au/.
Terms and conditions
This offer is open to all qualified Small Business Specialists, within the Microsoft Partner Program, who have a head-office in Australia.
To accommodate the Solution Profiler Tool, your company solution will be no longer than 1200 characters.
The information that will be included in your company profile will be derived from what you include in the template. Please fill this out to the best of your ability.
Once final copy is sent to you, it remains your responsibility to make any changes and upload the copy into the tool.
Offer ends October 1 2009.
More details at the Partner Network blog: http://blogs.msdn.com/auspartners/archive/2009/09/10/prepare-your-company-for-the-launch-of-microsoft-pinpoint-in-australia.aspx
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Australia will be one of only four Microsoft subsidiaries to have Pinpoint and I'm optimistic it will be a good source of leads of partners for small and medium business focussed partners who take advantage of its capabilities.
To get things rolling, Microsoft have a special offer for partners who want to prepare for the launch of Pinpoint in 2010 - here are the details:
Prepare your company for the launch of Microsoft Pinpoint in Australia
Get a free professionally written company profile
Microsoft Pinpoint is Microsoft’s unified online business marketplace. It is designed to help customers find the right Microsoft Partner to enable them reach their business goals. To prepare for the 2010 launch of Microsoft Pinpoint, we’re giving your business the chance to shine by helping you create a promotional blurb to upload into the Partner Solution Profile tool.
To qualify for this offer you must:
Be a qualified Small Business Specialist within the Microsoft Partner Network, with a head-office in Australia.
Fully complete the template below to the best of your ability before sending it through.
The first 40 fully completed templates that we receive will be eligible. You will be notified if your request has been successful.
6 Steps to Creating your Profile
Download and complete the template.
Send the template to libby@writeminded.com.au with Solution Profiler in the subject line.
If your template is one of the first 40 received, you’ll receive confirmation of your request with an indication of the production time.
Final copy will then be sent back to you, which you’re free to amend yourself.
The final step is for you to upload your completed copy into the Solution Profiler tool under ‘Solution Description’.
Work with a leading online copywriter
To help you create a great profile, Microsoft has engaged the services of write-minded Pty Ltd director and online communications consultant, Libby Varcoe. Libby was one of Australia’s first online copywriters. Her clients include True Local, Optus, Qantas, ninemsn, MBF, The NSW Premier’s Department and The National Museum of Australia. Libby also runs web writing workshops for the Department of State and Regional Development’s small business program. She has helped hundreds of businesses like yours find and express their voice online. For more information about write-minded visit: http://www.writeminded.com.au/.
Terms and conditions
This offer is open to all qualified Small Business Specialists, within the Microsoft Partner Program, who have a head-office in Australia.
To accommodate the Solution Profiler Tool, your company solution will be no longer than 1200 characters.
The information that will be included in your company profile will be derived from what you include in the template. Please fill this out to the best of your ability.
Once final copy is sent to you, it remains your responsibility to make any changes and upload the copy into the tool.
Offer ends October 1 2009.
More details at the Partner Network blog: http://blogs.msdn.com/auspartners/archive/2009/09/10/prepare-your-company-for-the-launch-of-microsoft-pinpoint-in-australia.aspx
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Australian Partner Conference Agenda Now Available
Still sitting on the fence, unsure if the Microsoft Australia Partner Conference is going to be worthwhile for you and your business?
I've just seen the Agenda Overview and there are some really great sounding sessions. Lots of business development, sales and marketing content and a really strong line up of SMB sessions.
You can view the Agenda here: http://www.mrmworldwide.com.au/hosted/microsoft/apc09/agenda.pdf
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
I've just seen the Agenda Overview and there are some really great sounding sessions. Lots of business development, sales and marketing content and a really strong line up of SMB sessions.
You can view the Agenda here: http://www.mrmworldwide.com.au/hosted/microsoft/apc09/agenda.pdf
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Who REALLY Has The Best Search Results?
I just can't seem to find any takers for the Bing tattoos I bought back from WPC.....so contact me if you're keen.
While we were travelling recently I was suprised to see such alot of people using Bing in airport lounges and hotel foyers. I'm still not sure it works for me as a regular search engine though.
Aussie Microsoft Developer Evangelist has put together the ultimate comparison tool - BlindSearch, a blind test for search engine results.
Having spent quite a bit of time on online advertising projects, one thing I noticed right away is that there isn't any localisation in the tool, but we'll let Mr Kordahi off seeing as he's put this together in his spare time for a bit of fun.
Still it's interest to play with and test your search engine prejudices against the results.
You can catch more of Michael Kordahi's antics at his blog delicategenuisblog.com
Kinda hoping he'll do a demo at APC, I really enjoyed the one he did last year. He's also running the web content track at TechEd.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
While we were travelling recently I was suprised to see such alot of people using Bing in airport lounges and hotel foyers. I'm still not sure it works for me as a regular search engine though.
Aussie Microsoft Developer Evangelist has put together the ultimate comparison tool - BlindSearch, a blind test for search engine results.
Having spent quite a bit of time on online advertising projects, one thing I noticed right away is that there isn't any localisation in the tool, but we'll let Mr Kordahi off seeing as he's put this together in his spare time for a bit of fun.
Still it's interest to play with and test your search engine prejudices against the results.
You can catch more of Michael Kordahi's antics at his blog delicategenuisblog.com
Kinda hoping he'll do a demo at APC, I really enjoyed the one he did last year. He's also running the web content track at TechEd.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Get the juice on the new Microsoft Partner Network
Microsoft's Aussie Partner Program team are on the road again, holding a series of sessions about the new Microsoft Partner Program.
They're holding sessions in major centres around Australia where you can learn more and also ask your questions of those in the know. Here's the details:
Date & Locations:
August 17: Victoria, Melbourne - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423237&Culture=en-AU
August 18: Perth, WA - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423242&Culture=en-AU
August 19: Adelaide, South Australia - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423238&Culture=en-AU
August 20: Canberra, ACT - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423239&Culture=en-AU
August 25: Brisbane, QLD - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423241&Culture=en-AU
August 26: Sydney, NSW – http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423245&Culture=en-AU
August 31: Gold Coast, QLD - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423243&Culture=en-AU
You can also learn more at Microsoft Partner Portal.
There are some details of the new Partner Network which are being fleshed out by Microsoft who are doing a great job of consulting with partners to get their feedback and incorporate some suggestions into the program.
I'm particularly excited about Customer Satisfaction coming to the fore in the new program, and the compentencies becoming easier for SMB clients to understand and navigate.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
They're holding sessions in major centres around Australia where you can learn more and also ask your questions of those in the know. Here's the details:
Date & Locations:
August 17: Victoria, Melbourne - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423237&Culture=en-AU
August 18: Perth, WA - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423242&Culture=en-AU
August 19: Adelaide, South Australia - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423238&Culture=en-AU
August 20: Canberra, ACT - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423239&Culture=en-AU
August 25: Brisbane, QLD - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423241&Culture=en-AU
August 26: Sydney, NSW – http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423245&Culture=en-AU
August 31: Gold Coast, QLD - http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032423243&Culture=en-AU
You can also learn more at Microsoft Partner Portal.
There are some details of the new Partner Network which are being fleshed out by Microsoft who are doing a great job of consulting with partners to get their feedback and incorporate some suggestions into the program.
I'm particularly excited about Customer Satisfaction coming to the fore in the new program, and the compentencies becoming easier for SMB clients to understand and navigate.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Using Underpants for Economic Measurement
There's been some very positive news coming out of the markets the last few days suggesting that the global recession may be over.
However my favourite story about commentators and economic indicators were in today's Business Spectator by my favourite man with numbers, Alan Kohler. You can also catch his always amusing daily market report on the ABC TV evening news.
Here's an excerpt from the article:
"More and more economists are now pronouncing that the cycle has turned, although it’s hard to know whether this is circular logic – that they are responding to the market and the market responding to them.
The New York Times points out this morning that Alan Greenspan has been known to watch sales of men’s underpants as a good economic indicator – they’re usually extremely consistent, but when sales dip, and men decide to stick with their old tatty ones for a while longer, he knows the economy is in real trouble. In this recession the dip has been very small apparently, and is now over."
So, how are you finding the market? We're definately seeing a change in buying attitudes, with a large amount of new and intense enquiry over the last few weeks.
But more importantly, when did you last buy new underpants?
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
However my favourite story about commentators and economic indicators were in today's Business Spectator by my favourite man with numbers, Alan Kohler. You can also catch his always amusing daily market report on the ABC TV evening news.
Here's an excerpt from the article:
"More and more economists are now pronouncing that the cycle has turned, although it’s hard to know whether this is circular logic – that they are responding to the market and the market responding to them.
The New York Times points out this morning that Alan Greenspan has been known to watch sales of men’s underpants as a good economic indicator – they’re usually extremely consistent, but when sales dip, and men decide to stick with their old tatty ones for a while longer, he knows the economy is in real trouble. In this recession the dip has been very small apparently, and is now over."
So, how are you finding the market? We're definately seeing a change in buying attitudes, with a large amount of new and intense enquiry over the last few weeks.
But more importantly, when did you last buy new underpants?
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Get Ready to Sell Windows 7
Microsoft announced last week that Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 have both gone RTM as at 22 July 2009.
This is great news and the team here at Directions are getting ready to sell Windows 7 to eager customer.
Windows 7 will be generally available to customers around the world on October 22, and Windows Server 2008 R2 will be generally available on or before that date. Windows 7 will be generally available to customers around the world on October 22, and Windows Server 2008 R2 will be generally available on or before that date. Windows 7 will be generally available to customers around the world on October 22, and Windows Server 2008 R2 will be generally available on or before that date. You can learn more on the Microsoft PressPass site.
So now is the time to plan your strategy to make the most of the Windows 7 launch in your business. There are some great marketing materials coming out of Microsoft which can be easily adapted to suit your market. Its great to see that Microsoft are supporting the product with an excellent PR campaign and some great advertising.
How is your business planning to take Windows 7 to market?
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
This is great news and the team here at Directions are getting ready to sell Windows 7 to eager customer.
Windows 7 will be generally available to customers around the world on October 22, and Windows Server 2008 R2 will be generally available on or before that date. Windows 7 will be generally available to customers around the world on October 22, and Windows Server 2008 R2 will be generally available on or before that date. Windows 7 will be generally available to customers around the world on October 22, and Windows Server 2008 R2 will be generally available on or before that date. You can learn more on the Microsoft PressPass site.
So now is the time to plan your strategy to make the most of the Windows 7 launch in your business. There are some great marketing materials coming out of Microsoft which can be easily adapted to suit your market. Its great to see that Microsoft are supporting the product with an excellent PR campaign and some great advertising.
How is your business planning to take Windows 7 to market?
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
WPC and Microsoft Partner Network: Whats It All About?
Now that I'm finally recovered from jetlag and the thrills of cancelled flights, long delays and plane food, I'm looking forward to blogging on my personal highlights from WPC.
For now, you can check out keynotes and other stuff on Digital WPC.
As you’ve probably heard, one of big announcements at WPC was about the changes to the Microsoft Partner Network and you can find out more details of these announcements on Digital WPC or by visiting the Partner Portal.
At the moment, not all of the details have been revealed and internally at Microsoft there is some fine tuning going on, based on Partner feedback and feedback from Microsoft subsidiaries.
Over the coming months, Sarah Arnold and Inese Kingsmill from Microsoft will be coordinating roadshows for partners to learn more about the changes to the Partner Network. Stay tuned for further details on those events.
In the meantime, you can subscribe to Sarah's blog or ask Sarah a question using the Live Messenger plug in on her blog.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
For now, you can check out keynotes and other stuff on Digital WPC.
As you’ve probably heard, one of big announcements at WPC was about the changes to the Microsoft Partner Network and you can find out more details of these announcements on Digital WPC or by visiting the Partner Portal.
At the moment, not all of the details have been revealed and internally at Microsoft there is some fine tuning going on, based on Partner feedback and feedback from Microsoft subsidiaries.
Over the coming months, Sarah Arnold and Inese Kingsmill from Microsoft will be coordinating roadshows for partners to learn more about the changes to the Partner Network. Stay tuned for further details on those events.
In the meantime, you can subscribe to Sarah's blog or ask Sarah a question using the Live Messenger plug in on her blog.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Monday, July 27, 2009
SMB Track Annoucned for Microsoft Australian Partner Conference
With WPC now behind us for another year, this year's Australia Partner Conference is now approaching fast. If your still unsure about whether you should attend, I'd encourage you to review the Agenda for 2009 - which for the first time includes a special SMB track with some really practical sales and marketing sessions as well two workshops.
From Microsoft Australia:
The Australia Partner Team have worked hard to assemble a critical agenda to help you gain a competitive advantage, and deliver you the tools and business intelligence you need to compete and win in the current economy. This year’s agenda is focused on helping you - our frontline Partners - engage, grow and monetise the opportunities that Microsoft will deliver in FY10.
You can now view the Agenda overview here. Make sure you check back at the Partner Portal in the next week, as you’ll be able to customise your own agenda and preview the content!
News just released - Philip Fawcett, Principal Program Manager, Microsoft Research has been locked for the Locknote on Friday 4th September. Philip provides an amazing insight into Future Trends, New Technology and Principals of Breakthrough Technology. Not to be missed! Want to know more about Philip Fawcett, click here to find out!
New to this years conference – We have an entire stream allocated to Enterprise / Corporate Accounts, Public Sector & SMB customer segments! Specific ISV, Hosting, S+S sessions are also targeted in this years agenda! Take a closer look here.
Secure your place – register today!
ENDS
I hope to see you there!
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
From Microsoft Australia:
The Australia Partner Team have worked hard to assemble a critical agenda to help you gain a competitive advantage, and deliver you the tools and business intelligence you need to compete and win in the current economy. This year’s agenda is focused on helping you - our frontline Partners - engage, grow and monetise the opportunities that Microsoft will deliver in FY10.
You can now view the Agenda overview here. Make sure you check back at the Partner Portal in the next week, as you’ll be able to customise your own agenda and preview the content!
News just released - Philip Fawcett, Principal Program Manager, Microsoft Research has been locked for the Locknote on Friday 4th September. Philip provides an amazing insight into Future Trends, New Technology and Principals of Breakthrough Technology. Not to be missed! Want to know more about Philip Fawcett, click here to find out!
New to this years conference – We have an entire stream allocated to Enterprise / Corporate Accounts, Public Sector & SMB customer segments! Specific ISV, Hosting, S+S sessions are also targeted in this years agenda! Take a closer look here.
Secure your place – register today!
ENDS
I hope to see you there!
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Monday, July 13, 2009
WPC09 New Orleans - Jazzed To Be Here!
New Orleans is a great city for a partner conference, southern hospitality, great weather and some of the best eating I've experienced in a long time.
Each year WPC is a great opportunity to catch up with other partners and Microsoft execs on a kind of level playing field. Everyone is playing away and a sense of openness of communication generally prevails, making for some genuinely interesting exchanges of ideas.
The agenda for this years WPC has been restructured significantly and I'm finding it much easier to navigate the content that I'm looking for. For me, last years agenda was really disappointing with alot of subject/content mismatch.
As always in this industry, change dominates and its a reminder of why we have chosen to make our careers and businesses in this industry - its dynamic, exciting and we get the buzz of being a conduit for innovation and productivity in the community.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Each year WPC is a great opportunity to catch up with other partners and Microsoft execs on a kind of level playing field. Everyone is playing away and a sense of openness of communication generally prevails, making for some genuinely interesting exchanges of ideas.
The agenda for this years WPC has been restructured significantly and I'm finding it much easier to navigate the content that I'm looking for. For me, last years agenda was really disappointing with alot of subject/content mismatch.
At Monday's keynote Allison Watson (Corporate VP, Microsoft Worldwide Partner Group) announced the new Microsoft Partner Network and outlined the transition that will take place from the current Microsoft Partner Program over the next 18 months or so. Already there are some interesting consipiracy theories about exactly what shape this will take and what it will mean for partners in the SMB space and for the Small Business Specialist program. I'm looking forward to sitting down with Sarah Arnold later today, where Wayne Small and myself will be getting more details and raising some of the questions coming out of the user groups and wider SMB community. I'm looking forward to bringing further information to you.
I've also got a number of meetings to attend in my new role as SBSC PAL and I'm anxious to find out more about the role and how I can assist partners and Microsoft to get more value out of working together and to navigate some of the fantastic opportunity being driven my many innovative products Microsoft will be brining to market over the next few years.As always in this industry, change dominates and its a reminder of why we have chosen to make our careers and businesses in this industry - its dynamic, exciting and we get the buzz of being a conduit for innovation and productivity in the community.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Networking with Partners - Good For Business
I had the pleasure of catching up with Ryan 'Fuzzy' Spillane of Correct Solutions this week in Brisbane and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to 'chew the fat' and exchange experiences running SMB IT businesses.
Ryan and Wayne Small have a fantastic and long established business in Sydney and are the 'go to' partner that other partners turn to when things get messy. Whilst their business model is very different to ours - as some of you know its managed services or nothing at all here at Directions Technology - I certainly picked up a few great ideas from Ryan's approach to running his business and confirmed a few of my own thoughts too.
So if you are sitting on the fence about attending Microsoft WPC, APC or TechEd, maybe you need to evaluate the networking benefits of attending these events. To me, just the face time we get with Microsoft execs at these events makes it worthwhile. Not to mention its a great way to step away from the day to day running of your business and get some perspective on things. For many business owners who still work day to day on their business, this is sorely needed.
Anyway, I enjoyed my chat with Ryan so much time completely ran away with me and I found myself running late for a Penfolds Grange wine tasting I was supposed to be at. Luckily I didn't miss any of the good stuff which included two esteemed vintages, the '81 and the delicious '89.
Wine Trivia: The name Grange came from the cottage where the Penfolds family lived, a 1951 Grange is undrinkable but now worth $60,000 and the starting price for this year’s vintage is $650.
I think I need to work on boosting our revenues at Directions so I can lay down a few bottles of the 2004 vintage, released last month!
Ryan and Wayne Small have a fantastic and long established business in Sydney and are the 'go to' partner that other partners turn to when things get messy. Whilst their business model is very different to ours - as some of you know its managed services or nothing at all here at Directions Technology - I certainly picked up a few great ideas from Ryan's approach to running his business and confirmed a few of my own thoughts too.
So if you are sitting on the fence about attending Microsoft WPC, APC or TechEd, maybe you need to evaluate the networking benefits of attending these events. To me, just the face time we get with Microsoft execs at these events makes it worthwhile. Not to mention its a great way to step away from the day to day running of your business and get some perspective on things. For many business owners who still work day to day on their business, this is sorely needed.
Anyway, I enjoyed my chat with Ryan so much time completely ran away with me and I found myself running late for a Penfolds Grange wine tasting I was supposed to be at. Luckily I didn't miss any of the good stuff which included two esteemed vintages, the '81 and the delicious '89.
Wine Trivia: The name Grange came from the cottage where the Penfolds family lived, a 1951 Grange is undrinkable but now worth $60,000 and the starting price for this year’s vintage is $650.
I think I need to work on boosting our revenues at Directions so I can lay down a few bottles of the 2004 vintage, released last month!
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
ICT Factor Brisbane - Getting Good IT to SMBs
I'm privleged to have been invited to present at the Queensland Government's ICT Factor conference in Brisbane later this month.
This is a great initiative designed to help businesses learn more about how they can use information technology to reduce costs, increase reach and improve efficiency. There's a full program including speakers, exhibtors and presentation from both local users, technologists and ICT companies.
Alot of the content is tailored to assist SMBs with four streams to choose from:
You can find out more about the event at the ICT Factor web page.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
This is a great initiative designed to help businesses learn more about how they can use information technology to reduce costs, increase reach and improve efficiency. There's a full program including speakers, exhibtors and presentation from both local users, technologists and ICT companies.
Alot of the content is tailored to assist SMBs with four streams to choose from:
- Human Resources
- Retail
- Tourism & Hospitality
- Accounting & Finance
You can find out more about the event at the ICT Factor web page.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Count Down to WPC 09 - New Orleans
Last year's WPC was held in Houston, a city which left me thoroughly uncharmed (possibly something to do with having spent two weeks in New York before WPC and a week in Bora Bora afterwards). So I'm really looking forward to New Orleans - a city famed for its history, food and music.
The format of this years conference has been changed to allow for Solutions Track Breakout Sessions, Segment/Industry Breakout Sessions and Business Model Breakouts with keynotes from the usual suspects like Kevin Turner, Allison Watson and Steve Ballmer. Lets hope Allison's not making another music video this year! One special keynote that is sure to be popular with the partners is Wednesday morning's session with Jack Welch. There's also a golf tournament and the WPC Day of Giving where you can roll up your sleeves and help out with the ongoing rebuilding work in New Orleans.
Aside from getting involved with a whole bunch of PAL related activities, I'm also hoping to get more out of meeting other partners using WPC Connect this year.
If you haven't already registered its not too late!
You can find out all about WPC09 and New Orleans by checking out these links:
Info on WPC09
https://partner.microsoft.com/40018508
http://www.digitalwpc.com/
Conference Agenda
http://www.digitalwpc.com/Agenda/
Things to See and Do
http://www.neworleansonline.com/
http://www.neworleanscvb.com/
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Microsoft Software Benefits Go Digital
Microsoft have recently announced a change to distribution of software benefits - meaning you'll be able to download software for internal use.
In some ways this a good thing, as managing physical media can get a little difficult - who hasn't wasted time trying to find the disk you need - especially if you've got behind on filing them away. Downloadable media should help you get what you need faster. Physical media will still be available to order (at a cost)
More details direct from Microsoft :
The partner community provided us with feedback to improve access and management of software benefits—we listened. We’re pleased to announce that you can now digitally access your software benefits from one, central location at any time. The advantages of the Microsoft Partner Program digital distribution solution: By directly downloading your internal-use software, you can gain access to software and updates the moment they’re made available—no need to wait for your Microsoft Action Pack Subscription or Microsoft Gold Certified or Certified Partner box shipment. Benefits include:
From this link, you can access your software benefits today. You can use a step-by-step instruction guide for assistance. How to order physical media and when you can make changes:If you aren’t automatically receiving physical media for your location, you can order it at any time—additional fees may apply. You’ll still have digital access to your software benefits.
For more information:
Check here for the latest details specific to your location and to review frequently asked questions. If you need support, please contact your local Regional Service Center.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
In some ways this a good thing, as managing physical media can get a little difficult - who hasn't wasted time trying to find the disk you need - especially if you've got behind on filing them away. Downloadable media should help you get what you need faster. Physical media will still be available to order (at a cost)
More details direct from Microsoft :
The partner community provided us with feedback to improve access and management of software benefits—we listened. We’re pleased to announce that you can now digitally access your software benefits from one, central location at any time. The advantages of the Microsoft Partner Program digital distribution solution: By directly downloading your internal-use software, you can gain access to software and updates the moment they’re made available—no need to wait for your Microsoft Action Pack Subscription or Microsoft Gold Certified or Certified Partner box shipment. Benefits include:
- Faster and more flexible: Access software immediately—24x7 availability.
- Greater visibility: View all of your software benefits summarized in a license statement.*
- Improved software benefits management: Add or remove users and manage their access to downloads, keys, and a license statement.
- Decreased environmental impact: Help reduce the amount of waste from manufacturing, shipping, and disposing of disk kits.
*Available August, 2009.
- At launch, you’ll be defaulted to receive Digital-Only software distribution or Digital-Plus-Physical software distribution, depending on your location.* View the frequently asked questions for details.
- If you’re defaulted to receive Digital-Only software distribution, you can always order physical media (software discs)—additional fees may apply. Visit your local Microsoft Partner Program portal for information on fees and expenses.
- If you’re defaulted to receive Digital-Plus-Physical software distribution, you must wait until re-enrollment to change to Digital-Only.
- Software benefits will always be available digitally, even when you’re receiving physical media.
- Access to software keys and license statement will only be available digitally, even when you’re receiving physical media.
- Marketing and sales resources are available online—in a few weeks, you’ll receive a communication to access these resources.
- Microsoft Gold Certified and Certified Partners will still be shipped Microsoft Partner Program plaques and certificates as appropriate.
*Certain locations will receive physical media (software discs) due to digital accessibility issues.
From this link, you can access your software benefits today. You can use a step-by-step instruction guide for assistance. How to order physical media and when you can make changes:If you aren’t automatically receiving physical media for your location, you can order it at any time—additional fees may apply. You’ll still have digital access to your software benefits.
For more information:
Check here for the latest details specific to your location and to review frequently asked questions. If you need support, please contact your local Regional Service Center.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Welcome To the SMB Technology Manifesto
In the midst of the 'Global Financial Crisis', Swine Flu and a period of intense busy-ness at Directions Technology, I am honoured to have been nominated as Microsoft SBSC PAL for Australia for 2009-10.
I'm really honoured to have been chosen by the partner community for this important role. While I'm still feeling my way around to find out the best way to engage with the community and Microsoft, I am looking forward to meeting more of you and finding out about your real world experiences at the frontline.
I'm going to be upfront about the fact that I don't have anything like the level of technical expertise that most members of the Small Business Specialist Community possess. My job at Directions Technology is to manage client accounts, develop marketing strategies and lead sales activities. This sees me talk to our clients all day every day and gives me a pretty good insight into what small and medium business owners and managers want from us as their technology partners and trusted advisors. At the end of the day, if we can't understand our clients needs, communicate with them and deliver on their requirements and expectations, all our efforts are for naught.
We are busier than we've ever been at Directions Technology, and I feel fortunate that we've chosen to really focus on boosting our sales and marketing activities over the last 12 - 18 months.
Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference is just around the corner, and I'll be making some time in the next week or so to strategise how we are going to make the most of our time in New Orleans. I've had a brief peek at the program which looks promising.
I welcome your comments and if you'd like to contact me directly, shoot me an email.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
I'm really honoured to have been chosen by the partner community for this important role. While I'm still feeling my way around to find out the best way to engage with the community and Microsoft, I am looking forward to meeting more of you and finding out about your real world experiences at the frontline.
I'm going to be upfront about the fact that I don't have anything like the level of technical expertise that most members of the Small Business Specialist Community possess. My job at Directions Technology is to manage client accounts, develop marketing strategies and lead sales activities. This sees me talk to our clients all day every day and gives me a pretty good insight into what small and medium business owners and managers want from us as their technology partners and trusted advisors. At the end of the day, if we can't understand our clients needs, communicate with them and deliver on their requirements and expectations, all our efforts are for naught.
We are busier than we've ever been at Directions Technology, and I feel fortunate that we've chosen to really focus on boosting our sales and marketing activities over the last 12 - 18 months.
Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference is just around the corner, and I'll be making some time in the next week or so to strategise how we are going to make the most of our time in New Orleans. I've had a brief peek at the program which looks promising.
I welcome your comments and if you'd like to contact me directly, shoot me an email.
Keira McIntosh is the General Manager at Directions Technology - an Australia owned small business providing managed and reliable IT Support in Brisbane. You can also find her on Twitter and Linked In.
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