1) Customers need to be sure that they get the correct versions of the software so that it will interact on their network properly.  Many customers do not realize that buying the incorrect operating system or office edition for their computers can hinder network interoperability and limit features that they need to perform daily tasks.  We have had problems with customers trying to run a home edition of Windows while connected to their Windows server environment.

Situational testimonial from a current JourneyTEAM-EASI customer.  We were hired on after an issue with a new computer was discovered and it came down to an issue with purchasing their hardware and software from a local retail store.

After explaining the problem to the customer, he responded “When we were looking at the computers at the store, I told the sales rep that I had Windows Small Business Server 2003 Standard Edition with 6 computers and then asked the computer we were buying would work with the network.  He gave me a very confident and reassuring answer.  It seems that all retail store sales agents appear confident, but then I end up in these situations.”  When we arrived to diagnose the problem with the computer, we had to tell the customer that the version of Windows would not communicate properly with the server and it did not have Office 2003 on it like they required.

2) Properly licensing software is more difficult when dealing with a business than it is for a home user.  Retailers are primarily geared towards dealing with home users or very small businesses (1 to 3 users without a server).  They are not aware of current promotions dealing with software assurance, discounts, etc. that could potentially save a business thousands of dollars.

3) Effort & Value & Long-Term Gain: These are all brought to the table by a Microsoft Partner.  We are trained and experienced on how to license your business properly.  We make sure that you are licensed for the long-term and that your business is not left re-purchasing new software releases; which is what usually happens when purchasing from a retailer.  Software is typically released on a major build version and does not include updates or service packs when purchased from a retailer.  Partners know which hotfixes, service packs, and updates need to be applied before the installation is complete and the computer is left with the end-user.  In addition, Microsoft partners have experience dealing with common business issues and challenges.  Implementing your Operating System gives us the oportunity to review your network and business processes and identify areas that could be improved on; which typically results in additional cost savings for our customers.

4) Risk and Reward: The time spent by a business user going down to their local retailer and purchasing software could instead be spent perfecting their business.  Not only that, but they may pay double in the long-term because they made an incorrect buying decision.  Microsoft partners are experts in many areas of software consulting and can absolutely help any business identify and solve their business challenges.  We go out of our way to ensure that our customers are sucessful and that every effort we put forth results in greater efficiencies and growth for our customers.