In-Depth Features


Winning the Linux Wars

Competing with Linux once filled Microsoft partners with dread, but now many are taking on the open source operating system with growing self-confidence -- and success. Here are the tactics for winning the fight.

Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan

Project Server 2003 is the answer for your customers that need to manage large-scale projects.

High-Tech Test Beds

Microsoft's sophisticated demonstration labs can be ideal settings for testing solutions -- and closing deals. Getting in isn't easy, though. Here's what you need to know.

A Big Piece of the Puzzle

Visual Studio 2005 is tightly integrated with SQL Server 2005, and provides a range of tools for building everything from simple Web apps to Office-based apps.

5 Keys to Selling with Microsoft in the Enterprise

Microsoft's complex corporate reorganizations -- especially its recent enterprise sales force shakeup -- can be downright bewildering. These five tips can help you find your way through the maze of changes to keep your company on a steady, profitable course.

Finding the Opportunity in Licensing

Deepen your relationship with customers and Microsoft at the same time.

Building a Firm Foundation in Microsoft Expertise

Internosis' experience in public and private sectors creates balanced approach to business.

Spies in Every Corner

These tools help eliminate spyware, keep your systems clean and running efficiently and—most importantly—protect vital information.

Spyware Meets Its Match -- Almost

Microsoft's anti-spyware tool works well enough, but some readers question its categorization and detection capabilities.

SQL 2005: The Integrated Stack Is Back

Is all this integration among Microsoft components good for customers?

Getting the Most out of SMS

Tips and tricks from an SMS veteran to help you recoup your investment in Microsoft's System Management Server.

WennSoft Strikes Vertical Gold

A job-costing application born from its construction industry roots grows into a successful business.

Boost Your Customers' Business

Get your existing Office customers using Microsoft CRM, and you can help them get a better handle on their customer data.

Get Set for SQL Server 2005

With improvements in business intelligence and development tools, on top of greatly enhanced performance, Microsoft's long-awaited database should present ample partner opportunity.

7 Keys to Selling More Upgrades

Microsoft may be its own greatest competitor, but you can convince customers to move on to new versions. Learn how to close that next upgrade opportunity.

Grading Your Marketing and Sales

If your marketing and sales efforts aren't hitting the mark, you may be missing out on opportunities. Here's how to assess their effectiveness and repair any damage.

Delivering on the Promise

Zoran Nikolic and GM Solutions, with a 200 percent increase in business, is but one Information Worker partner success story. Microsoft is looking for lots more.

Seal the Deal with ROI

Proving that your solution will quickly pay for itself is crucial to landing more business. Here's how to come up with return-on-investment calculations that will help you gain customer trust and build lasting relationships.

Blueprint for Success

From pre-sales to delivery to support, partners like Tim Hebert of Atrion Networking find that blueprinting their processes makes them more efficient—and profitable.

Providing Instant Backup

Data Protection Manager gives your customers a solid disk-based backup solution, but it's even better when combined with tape.