Microsoft channel changes irk CRM partners
crn.com | at | by Mike
If Microsoft thought its CRM channel changes would go smoothly it must be sorely disappointed. In the second conference call in less than a week, company executives got an earful from nervous, sometimes irate, Microsoft Business Solutions (MBS) partners angered by Microsoft's decision to put its CRM offering through broad distribution and volume licenses. Microsoft executives were on a call for more than three hours Wednesday fielding questions and complaints about the changes, first reported by CRN. A similar teleconference was held last Friday.
Many of these partners, with roots in Great Plains and Navision accounting and ERP applications, feel disenfranchised now that Microsoft CRM will be sold the same way as Office, Windows, and other high-volume SKUs. This decision confirms their fears that Microsoft only understands the volume-and not the high-value add-sales and support model.