In-Depth Features


Microsoft System Center Operations Manager 2007 Move Over, MOM

Microsoft's System Center Operations Manager 2007 goes beyond simple device-level reports to provide comprehensive IT service monitoring and management.

Vertical Markets: Prescription for Profit

The health-care industry is finally ready for a major IT upgrade, and for partners with the right solutions the prognosis is excellent indeed.

Salary Survey: IT Workers Continue To Flourish

IT workers continue to ride a strong wave of increasing experience to a third straight year of high earnings, according to <i>Redmond</i> magazine's 12th annual Salary Survey.

Security Showdown

Microsoft's entry into enterprise security has market leader Symantec gearing up for a fight -- but not necessarily doing more to attract Microsoft partners.

No Partner Too Small

Seeking new markets, Oracle invites SMBs to take a fresh look at its offerings.

Seeking Satisfaction

Since arriving in Redmond, Kevin Turner has focused on filling Microsoft's gap in data on how satisfied customers are with partners. Expect the company to step up its 'C-Sat' measurement efforts this year.

Zooming in on Software Plus Services

Microsoft has given partners a basic field guide to its evolving S+S strategy -- but plenty of details still need clarification.

The Right Stuff

Microsoft executives view their 'benefits wheel' as the hub of their new campaign to get the right benefit to the right partner at the right time.

Solving the Puzzle -- Together

In solution selling, partners and customers join forces to solve problems -- and both parties win.

Microsoft Forefront Aims to Integrate Security

For customers struggling to manage and maintain security wares from multiple vendors, Forefront offers a Microsoft-centric alternative.

Microsoft Myths

Deconstructing the most common statistics and figures about the Microsoft Partner Program.

Awaiting a Vista Bounce

Microsoft calls Windows Vista its fastest-selling OS yet. Partners are waiting -- patiently -- for that momentum to reach the channel.

Getting the Lay of the Land

Here's an up-to-date sketch of Microsoft's competitive landscape -- including the peaks and valleys that most affect partners.

Minding Your Microsoft Manners

RCP's experts answer five tricky etiquette questions and provide pointers on what to do -- and what not to do -- when meeting with Microsoft.

Setting Up Shop Near Seattle

Opening an office near Microsoft's corporate HQ can help you get inside information and access to the right people -- or simply drain your bank account. Here's what to consider before deciding whether a Redmond branch is right for you.

SharePoint Server 2007: A Collaboration Lock-In

Your customers will love Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 for its powerful collaboration capabilities. You'll love it for its recurring revenue stream.

Vertical Markets: Pursuing the Public Sector

From the White House to town hall, government is big business. Here's a guide to the top IT opportunities and how to get in on them.

Sinking a Putt -- and Landing a Deal

For many partners, playing golf is an essential element for building relationships and closing deals. For others, the game is a nuisance. And for a few, it's, well, a handicap. Here's how to decide whether and when to hit the links.

It's the Networking, Stupid

A sneak peek at the upcoming Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference in Denver, the channel's biggest networking opportunity of the year.

Partner Paychecks

In Redmond Channel Partner's first-ever salary survey, we look at how much you're getting paid -- and are paying yourselves -- and answer some questions you might have been afraid to ask.