Microsoft 365 Copilot Creates New Possibilities for Partners
Microsoft 365 Copilot: Transforming the Future of Work
The Impact of Microsoft 365 Copilot
In today’s fast-paced technology landscape, Microsoft 365 Copilot stands out as a game-changer, revolutionizing how we work. This tool, powered by generative AI, enhances productivity, fosters collaboration, and improves customer engagement. The recent updates to Copilot, including features like Copilot Pages and upgraded app integrations, provide partners with more resources to create ground-breaking solutions for their clients. These advancements, highlighted in the Wave 2 announcement, not only boost collaboration and productivity but also automate tasks, opening new doors for partners to enhance their services and enhance client satisfaction.
New Billing Options
Beginning December 1, 2024, Microsoft introduced a new monthly billing plan for its annual subscriptions of Microsoft 365 Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot for Sales, and Microsoft 365 Copilot for Services. This option comes with a 5% increase in price compared to the traditional upfront annual payment approach. For further details, partners can review the Microsoft 365 blog and the Pricing Updates FAQ.
Promotional Offers for Partners
To facilitate the transition to AI for customers, Microsoft has rolled out several promotional offers to encourage the adoption of AI technology, all while maintaining security and compliance.
Getting Started with Microsoft 365 Copilot Offer
Running until December 31, 2024, this offer provides a 15% discount for customers who purchase between 10 and 300 seats on a new Microsoft 365 Copilot subscription. This discount applies to the partner net pricing, giving partners the flexibility to pass on these savings to their customers. Partners can enhance this promotion by bundling it with professional services and taking advantage of the Microsoft 365 Copilot QuickStart training.
Do More with Microsoft 365 E3 Promo
Understanding that security is a primary concern for customers, Microsoft is offering a 15% discount off the net partner price for new Microsoft 365 E3 customers until June 30, 2025. This package is vital for enabling AI functionalities, featuring Microsoft 365 apps and security tools that assist customers in adopting a Zero Trust security framework. For those needing enhanced security features, Microsoft 365 E5 offers additional tools to protect data throughout its lifecycle.
Microsoft 365 E5 Customer Offer
From January 1, 2025, partners can also provide a 15% discount on the net price of Microsoft 365 E5 annual commitments for qualified customers. This offer is set to remain available until June 30, 2025, covering subscriptions between 1 and 2,400 licenses.
Go-to-Market Resources
Microsoft 365 Copilot not only boosts individual productivity but also aligns with wider organizational objectives, including enhancing revenue, reducing costs, and improving operational efficiency. Microsoft introduced a new functional go-to-market (GTM) strategy to optimize the demonstration of business value to leaders.
Essential GTM Resources
Here are some key resources partners should utilize:
- Introductory Video: Start with a video that outlines the new functional GTM approach.
- Pitch Deck: Access the Microsoft 365 Copilot pitch deck.
- Scenario Library: Explore the Microsoft Copilot Scenario Library.
- Business Case Builder: Utilize the Business Case Builder to highlight Copilot’s value.
Copilot Excellence Workshop
To assist partners in increasing their Copilot sales, Microsoft offers the Copilot Excellence Workshop. This program includes personalized Microsoft-led training focused on enhancing sales cycles for end customers who are considering increasing their use of Copilot seats. Partners can learn more and nominate clients through the Partner-led Sales Resource.
Building Your AI Practice
It’s never too late to innovate and capture market opportunities. Partners interested in enhancing their skills can find resources on the Microsoft Partner Skilling Hub, which offers both live events and on-demand content related to various Microsoft technologies.
Microsoft CSP Briefings and Partner Benefits
Microsoft offers CSP Briefings to help partners grow their small and medium business practices. These events help generate demand and enhance customer interest in Microsoft Cloud solutions. Additionally, starting January 22, 2025, over 20 new product licenses, including Microsoft 365 Copilot, will be included in the partner benefits packages.
Next Steps for Partners
To capitalize on these opportunities, partners can:
- Engage customers about Microsoft Copilot Wave 2 updates and feedback.
- Emphasize business value across diverse functions.
- Use all available offers and resources to optimize sales strategies.
- Stay informed with the latest materials and join the Copilot Partner Community.
Engage with the Microsoft Community
For further discussions and insights on Microsoft 365 Copilot and more, partners can connect through the Microsoft Americas Partner Community on LinkedIn.
