Software Applications and Services
The software market is a side of the IT industry that is home to some of the largest names in the business, but the growth in open source software has shown it is not just all about Windows. As well as the operating system competition, there have also been changes in the way software can be delivered with Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) becoming more popular. This section of the site will cover all of the latest software applications and services issues.
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News
20 Nov 2024
Lemongrass stepping up support to get customers to Clean Core
SAP channel specialist is guiding users through the stages to unlock the benefits of the vendor’s cloud shift Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
06 Nov 2024
Infinity Group CEO shares AI experiences
Microsoft partner has embraced Copilot, and has some lessons to share to encourage others to do the same Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Nov 2024
MicroScope: MSPs are the future
The managed service model has swept the channel in recent years and looks like the approach for the long term – but does it need to change? Also, read about how to best prepare for an AI-driven future, as well as celebrate e92plus’s 35 years as a distributor Continue Reading
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News
16 Oct 2024
Bechtle extends UK coverage with DriveWorks buy
Firm makes second deal on this side of the Channel in two weeks as it brings design and automation specialist into the fold Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
15 Oct 2024
Bytes H1 numbers show benefits of software and services strategy
Channel player shares results for its first half, revealing a decline in hardware but improvements in other parts of the portfolio Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Feature
10 Oct 2024
Five-minute interview: Andie Dovgan, Creatio
The latest channel figure to share a few personal insights is the chief growth officer at no-code specialist Creatio Continue Reading
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News
03 Oct 2024
Kerv deepens Microsoft expertise with Inciper buy
Kerv’s acquisition is its first struck since the managed services player attracted a fresh backer earlier this year Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
02 Oct 2024
Azul benefits from indirect strategy
Azul updates progress made as a result of expanding its channel base and its plans to increase support Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
06 Sep 2024
MicroScope: Embracing the AI opportunity
In this issue, we look at how the channel is reacting to AI, share advice for those looking to harness the technology, and explore how MSPs can help customers to optimise AI investments Continue Reading
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News
06 Aug 2024
Sizeable number of users yet to make Windows 11 leap
The channel has an opportunity to encourage migration to Microsoft Windows 11 from customers continuing to drag their heels Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
30 Jul 2024
Lemongrass taking advantage of SAP cloud moves
Vendor’s encouragement to customers to adopt its Rise technology has opened up opportunities for its channel Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Feature
18 Jun 2024
Is Windows 11 finally ready for take-off?
Billy MacInnes looks at the progress made by operating system Windows 11 since its launch in 2021 Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2024
Advania adds services muscle with Servium addition
Acquisition of Servium adds more customers and greater software, hardware and services depth to Advania offering Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
05 Jun 2024
ANS opens apprenticeship scheme to channel
Firm adds its apprenticeship academy to the range of benefits available for its indirect partners to tap into Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
21 May 2024
AST bolsters UK position with Symatrix buy
Tie-up of Oracle specialists will provide operations on both sides of the Atlantic for expanding American business Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
03 May 2024
MicroScope: The challenge of our time
In this issue, explore what you can do to help customers on their net-zero journeys as sustainability grows in importance in the boardroom. Also read up on the benefits of refurbished kit, and learn how Tech Channel Ambassadors are promoting careers to young people and reskillers Continue Reading
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News
24 Apr 2024
TD Synnex launches group to focus on AI
Distributor forms group to bring together businesses and individuals with different skills and resources to maximise benefits of artificial intelligence Continue Reading
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News
04 Apr 2024
Umbraco provides update on sustainability progress
CMS player issues annual Impact Report to cover progress made on carbon emissions, diversity and efforts to work with partners to save planet Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
14 Mar 2024
RM outlines strategic growth plan
Education player puts tough 2023 into history books as it looks to improve business fortunes Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2024
Swiss player Avallain gains UK foothold with TeacherMatic buy
Avallain responds to growing impact of artificial intelligence in education with acquisition of specialist firm in UK Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
07 Mar 2024
HP emphasises AI in partner programme enhancements
Vendor uses partner event to share details of changes coming in May, and its plans to increase support for partners keen to get involved with artificial intelligence Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
08 Feb 2024
IBM expands AWS marketplace programme to UK
IBM’s experiences running AWS offering in the US has given it the confidence to move to the next phase and introduce it to a number of European countries Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
06 Feb 2024
Dell encourages GenAI involvement with partner competency
One of the features of the enhanced Partner programme was the launch of a process to validate those up to speed on the technology Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
05 Feb 2024
RM looking to deliver trusted education relationship
RM keen to add more value to help improve the experiences for children in the classroom and those who are teaching them Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
05 Jan 2024
MicroScope: Things are looking up for 2024
In this issue, catch up on what experts predict for the year ahead in the channel business, as well as a look back on 2023. Also, read about upcoming areas for growth and the importance of understanding cloud reselling to demystify customer needs Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Dec 2023
The top 10 channel themes of 2023
What were the main areas of interest in the past 12 months? This handy list of the top 10 should jog memories, stir debate and garner some agreement across the channel Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
12 Dec 2023
Lenovo channel exec tips artificial intelligence, edge and multicloud as areas for growth
With 2024 just a matter of weeks away, partners are already being alerted to areas where decent revenues should be available Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Dec 2023
MicroScope: What does the future hold for Industry 5.0?
In this issue, we explore the future of Industry 5.0 to discover whether it’s truly a tech revolution or just the next step in what has been promised since Industry 4.0. Also learn more about the risks and impacts of generative AI on data compliance and compliance, as well as seven steps you should take to engage customers while providing services Continue Reading
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News
08 Nov 2023
NTT Data strengthens SAP channel position with Sapphire
Tie-up will provide greater coverage of the mid-market customer base and provide more geographical reach Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
03 Nov 2023
MicroScope: Team up for peak success
In this issue, we explore the need to handle pitches and collaboration carefully to create more opportunities as an increasing amount of IT spending goes via partners. Also discover Canalys’ predictions for the use of generative AI, and just what exactly it means when we talk ‘cyber security’ Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Oct 2023
An Introduction to Microsoft 365 Copilot
Richard Hutchings, chief technology officer at Littlefish, shares some thoughts on the potential offered by the technology Continue Reading
By- Richard Hutchings, chief technology officer at Littlefish,
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News
05 Oct 2023
Canalys: Channel involvement with marketplaces will grow
Rather than bypassing partners, the penny is dropping that involving more will add more value and help meet a wider range of customer demands Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
05 Oct 2023
Schneider Electric hands partners sustainability SaaS
Vendor continues to support partners with tools to identify, measure and ultimately reduce carbon emissions Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
27 Sep 2023
BNZSA cuts ribbon on marketing as a service offering
Firm is looking to help improve channel marketing efforts with a concierge service that will provide high levels of support Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
25 Sep 2023
Software spending getting chief financial officer scrutiny
The cost of SaaS tools is getting attention from those that have the power to tighten budgets Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Sep 2023
MicroScope: Channel pushes on against the odds
In this issue, we take a look at the struggles and triumphs faced by the channel this year so far. Also read up on possible solutions to the skills shortage, including the opening up of STEM to a more diverse range of students, and the necessity for improving skills on the job Continue Reading
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News
30 Aug 2023
K3 Business Technology transition continues
Channel player focused on fashion industry shares H1 progress indicating that it is making progress Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
17 Aug 2023
Insight picks up Amdaris
Acquisition will add more depth to the channel player’s ability to support customers looking for digital transformation support Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
15 Aug 2023
Umbraco involves channel in sustainability efforts
Content management system specialist Umbraco recognises the need to create a community effort to tackle the reduction of carbon emissions Continue Reading
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News
19 Jul 2023
ISVs, AI and multicloud on Oracle channel chief’s to-do list
The vendor is looking to make sure its partners deliver high levels of customer experience and can take advantage of emerging opportunities Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
10 Jul 2023
AI, automation and edge driving Red Hat channel
Vendor looks to identify areas where its partners can make a difference and provide support Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
07 Jul 2023
MicroScope: The pressure to deliver
With technology always changing, it can feel like an impossible feat to keep up – we speak to experts about how the channel handles rapid change and the pressure this places on partners to meet customer expectations. Also read about major themes of the market and how the topic of return on investments needs to stretch beyond economics Continue Reading
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E-Zine
02 Jun 2023
MicroScope: Take a balanced approach to security
In this issue, read about how to help customers manage their security portfolios in a world of increasingly complex systems, discover how insights are providing more opportunities for partners, and learn whether being an MSP is enjoyable or not Continue Reading
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E-Zine
06 Apr 2023
MicroScope: The benefits of security certifications
In this month’s MicroScope ezine, we look at how industry-recognised certifications can strengthen business defences. We also see how ChatGPT offers the channel a chance to level the playing field. Read the issue now. Continue Reading
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03 Apr 2023
ChatGPT offers the channel a chance to level the playing field
There is a lot of hype around the AI-driven content generating tool – and it could genuinely help the channel – but there are risks involved. Continue Reading
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Opinion
31 Mar 2023
Using Microsoft Power BI to leverage your data
Callum Gillespie head of infrastructure operations at Littlefish, shares some advice on getting the most out of the business intelligence offering Continue Reading
By- Callum Gillespie head of infrastructure operations at Littlefish,
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News
29 Mar 2023
IT system issues hit RM numbers
Rolling out a fresh system caused problems for RM, but executives stress that the educational specialist remains in a strong position Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
23 Mar 2023
Microsoft responds to feedback with partner programme enhancements
It’s been six months since its cloud partner programme launched, and in that time the channel has shared its views with the vendor Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
09 Mar 2023
Babble hits M&A trail to bolster Microsoft position
Channel player Babble adds two more firms to its growing list of acquisitions as it continues to grow the business Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
07 Mar 2023
Epicor swoops for ISV partner
Financial planning player Epicor adds more depth to portfolio with the addition of established developer DSPanel Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
06 Mar 2023
Capita continues divestment strategy with HR sell-off
Firm sells off more of the portfolio as it continues to trim the focus to its two core businesses, Capita Public Service and Capita Experience Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Mar 2023
MicroScope: Steering the storage market
In this issue, read all about how the storage world is continuing to evolve as it looks to the cloud, security and ESG compliance requirements. Also discover six steps to making your business more sustainable and read about how IBM’s channel boss is set to make a difference. Continue Reading
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News
22 Feb 2023
Nasstar bolsters data expertise with Colibri Digital buy
MSP’s ambition to be a major UK provider of cloud and comms services to the mid-market and enterprise customer bases continues to take shape Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
22 Feb 2023
Red Hat simplifies product access with subscription offering
Open source player is making it more straightforward for its channel to get their hands on its technology to help with proof of concepts and technical development Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
13 Feb 2023
VeUP launches to add value to AWS channel
Consultancy operation with offices on both sides of the Atlantic has spotted a gap in the market Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
07 Feb 2023
NetSuite enjoys decent EMEA channel growth
Vendor provides update on how 2022 went for its channel business across the region Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
02 Feb 2023
Trustmarque starts mid-market growth plan with Livingstone buy
Firm talks of taking the first step as it signals ambitions to make a greater impact in the UK Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Feb 2023
MicroScope: Opportunities in security
In this month’s issue, we explore the possibilities for the channel to make its mark with security services, and take a closer look at whether the ChatGPT revolution brings more benefits or negatives with it Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2023
Channel seen as route to growth for iplicit and Sycope
Vendors iplicit and Sycope look to partners as a way to help drive growth in the UK and extend their market reach Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Opinion
19 Jan 2023
Why a Microsoft 365 security assessment is good for business
Jason Rothwell, solutions architect at Littlefish, believes the auditing process delivers some positives for customers Continue Reading
By- Jason Rothwell, solutions architect at Littlefish
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News
18 Jan 2023
Intechnica embraces fresh owner and Version 1 makes double swoop
Consolidation in the channel continues at pace with three deals being announced within the past 24 hours Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
13 Jan 2023
Thirdera and Aptum use acquisition to bolster reach and skills
Firms go into M&A market to support ambitions, with both deals having implications for the UK channel Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
09 Jan 2023
MicroScope: Channel themes for 2023
In this month’s ezine, we provide a guide to the main areas of focus for the channel in the year ahead, with security, sustainability and hybrid working already standing out as major themes. We also look at what makes a good partner incentive programme. Read the issue now. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2022
Poor data quality is undermining chance of gaining insights
Research signals to those in the channel with a handle on data analytics that there is an opportunity in the market Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
07 Dec 2022
Air IT and Nexer Group active on M&A front
Firm Air IT continues to show its determination to use M&A as a way of bolstering its position in the UK managed services market Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
02 Dec 2022
MicroScope: Dealing with rising prices
With prices rising, many are looking at what costs to cut – yet in the channel, the opposite might prove for better business. In this issue, read about how to navigate the cost issue, learn about the growing area of security, and learn about how to create a more appealing employment experience to attract talent Continue Reading
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News
28 Nov 2022
RM slims down with MIS sale
Education player continues to review the business as it looks to put itself in a position to support schools Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
17 Nov 2022
IGEL pulls plug on thin client hardware
Firm will focus on software going forward as it reveals it will no longer sell hardware from the end of the first quarter of 2023 Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
08 Nov 2022
Codestone and OSF Digital hit the acquisition trail
Firms look to bolster skills, expertise and geographic reach with latest purchases Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Feature
07 Nov 2022
Prices are rising and maybe that’s not so bad
Life is getting more expensive and many will look to cut costs and reduce prices where possible – but in the channel it might be OK to do the reverse Continue Reading
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E-Zine
04 Nov 2022
MicroScope: Elevate security to minimise risk
Security remains a major concern for customers and a continuing area of growth for the channel – so what can managed service providers do to help out? Also read about expectations for the last quarter of 2022 and how partnerships are key to digital transformation Continue Reading
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News
24 Oct 2022
Couchbase CEO flags database-as-a-service opportunity
With customers transitioning to the cloud, the moment is right for partners to pitch something different Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
13 Oct 2022
Cloud shift set to benefit insightsoftware channel
Vendor has identified a gap that its partners can help fill for finance teams keen to move to the cloud and get more out of technology Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
03 Oct 2022
MicroScope: 40 years of MicroScope
As we celebrate MicroScope’s 40 anniversary, we look back (and forward) to assess how the channel keeps changing, with experts weighing in with their opinions Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Sep 2022
The channel: Four decades of change
To celebrate MicroScope’s 40th anniversary, we ask channel leaders to reflect on the changes seen over the past four decades – a shift to software, and the emergence of the managed service provider and the cloud are among the highlights Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Opinion
29 Sep 2022
UK systems integrator aims to untangle Ukraine supply chain
Nick Booth catches up with someone who has the answers to making trade across borders happen more smoothly, with it being pitched as an answer to help Ukraine ease the flow of grain exports Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2022
Alibaba Cloud outlines $1bn investment in partner ecosystem
Cloud player will spend the money over the next three years to enhance and grow its partner base Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Sep 2022
MicroScope: The green agenda
Sustainability is now seen as a necessity for business to have on their agenda, so read about how the channel is turning green to capture customer attention. Also discover how the pandemic has changed sales forever and boosted the importance of relationships, as well as learn about how to handle currency fluctuations, rises and inflation Continue Reading
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News
16 Aug 2022
Expereo and Wavenet hit acquisition trail
Firms expand their options by picking up more expertise and market coverage though deals Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
29 Jul 2022
Pandemic has changed the SaaS sales process
The channel has a small window to pitch in and needs to make sure it is prepared if it is going to be successful Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
20 Jul 2022
ISV support is the focus at Microsoft Inspire
Vendor’s partner event has included programme updates and enhancements to its commercial marketplace Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
15 Jul 2022
Microsoft gives Dezen channel chief role
Months after former incumbent left the business, the vendor has made its choice for who will be at the helm of the partner organisation Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Feature
01 Jul 2022
Five-minute interview: Tim Britt, Dropbox
MicroScope talks to Tim Britt, Dropbox’s director of sales and channel for Central Europe, about what his thoughts on the channel and what gets him up in the morning Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Jul 2022
MicroScope: The slow march to Windows 11
It's taken a while, but the latest Microsoft OS is having an impact – read all about the journey to Windows 11, as well as the uptake of co-innovation and co-creation strategies in the channel, and Broadcom's acquisition of VMware Continue Reading
- 30 Jun 2022
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News
21 Jun 2022
Avanade and Intact add fuel to consolidation trend
Microsoft specialist and ERP player seal acquisitions as they look to strengthen their positions Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Feature
14 Jun 2022
Five-minute interview: Kit Kyte, Checkit
MicroScope talks to Kit Kyte, CEO at intelligent operations platform CheckIt, to discover what makes him tick and what his opinions are surrounding remote working and technology Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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Feature
10 Jun 2022
The slow journey to Windows 11
Microsoft has been emphasising the positives of Windows 11, but users appear to be taking their time in migrating to the latest operating system Continue Reading
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News
09 Jun 2022
Sage lifts lid on channel skills concerns
Vendor shares research that reveals the channel is looking to bolster expertise to support customers as well as their own businesses Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
27 May 2022
Daisy Communications and DSP-Explorer add to consolidation trend
Firms move to add depth and skills with deals for fellow channel players Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
13 May 2022
K3 Business Technology CEO has seen progress in year one
The turnaround at the channel player continues, but the man in charge has delivered a fair bit in the year a bit since he stepped into the chief executive role Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
09 May 2022
Tech Data enhances managed print offering
Distributor adds more depth to its OpenMPS cloud-based offering after getting partner feedback Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
06 May 2022
MicroScope: Charging at SME security challenges
With cyber threats growing, SMEs have to improve their security position, and the channel is best placed to support that aim. Read all about improving security, how sustainability is more important than ever in channel conversations, and the impact of hybrid working Continue Reading
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News
05 May 2022
SAP channel consolidation continues as Codestone buys Clarivos
Deal will add more muscle to ERP, analytics and provide extra depth to the cloud services that the combined operation can offer Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
19 Apr 2022
Windows 11 adoption increasing, but challenges remain for the channel
Adoption of the latest operating system from Windows is picking up, but those pitching software and hardware upgrades still face a number of obstacles to see it increase further Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
12 Apr 2022
Content+Cloud picks up Microsoft Dynamics player Azzure IT
Acquisition comes just a few months after the channel player was itself a target of a deal that has given it more muscle in the market Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
01 Apr 2022
MicroScope: Can life ever really be simple for partners?
In this issue, discover whether simplifying programmes and interactions with partners is achievable, and what barriers stand in the way for vendors looking to make life easier. Also read about why reskilling in a post-pandemic world is key to boosting industry, and learn about what to expect from the manufacturing sphere over the next year Continue Reading
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News
18 Mar 2022
Cloud, Windows and Teams should spur Microsoft channel growth
Microsoft puts its forthcoming shift in context as it outlines major changes to its partner programme Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
17 Mar 2022
Lemongrass widens hyperscaler line-up by adding Azure
SAP cloud specialist explains the process it went through in settling on a multicloud strategy Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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E-Zine
04 Mar 2022
MicroScope: Taking the steady approach to becoming an MSP
In this issue, take a closer look at the risks and pitfalls on the journey to becoming a manages services provider, read about expected ongoing change and consolidation in the year ahead, and discover what experts have to say on the skills and supply chain shortages Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2022
Being open is at the heart of Red Hat’s channel approach
Open source player has worked hard to develop a strong ecosystem and is keen to develop that further to work closely with partners Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor
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News
02 Mar 2022
PIM player Electrika in channel-building mode
SaaS player is looking to extend its reach by increasing its channel base across the UK Continue Reading
By- Simon Quicke, Microscope Editor