Monthly Update for Microsoft Partners
Have you ever wondered what it is Microsoft has been doing lately? If so, you're in the right place. We've carefully selected Microsoft's most significant updates over the last month, making sure you're always up to date.
As Microsoft eventually makes changes that directly impact your business, understanding the latest releases can give you a competitive edge.
Ready to start?
Secure Your Partner Ecosystem with GDAP
In August 2023, Microsoft brings essential updates for partners focusing on Granular Delegated Admin Privileges (GDAP) to enhance security and protect customer tenants.
GDAP Transition: Microsoft is in the process of transitioning Delegated Admin Privileges (DAP) relationships to GDAP roles. Partners gain access to nine roles granted for a one-year period.
Creating New Customers: Starting September 25, 2023, Microsoft will no longer grant DAP for new customer creation. Instead, they will grant default GDAP with specific roles. The bulk migration tool is available until the end of November 2023.
Recommended Actions: Partners should request GDAP if admin access is needed for a customer tenant and disable DAP if not required.
Additional Features: GDAP now includes features such as Exchange transport rules, public folders, and quarantine emails. Device management requires GDAP relationships.
CSP Program Guide Update Coming in October
On October 12, 2023, the Online Services and Software Channel Authorization (CSP Program Guide) will be updated.
Changes: Several regions, including American Samoa and Guam, will move to the United States regions and markets. The transacting currency for these regions will change to USD.
No Action Required: The updated CSP Program Guide will automatically take effect on October 12, 2023. Partners should review it to ensure compliance.
Updates for Solutions Partner Designations
Microsoft introduces new designations and updates for partners in the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program.
New Training Services Partner Designation: Partners will have access to Training Services partner performance reports in Partner Center. Full availability is expected in early 2024.
Partner Support Services Designation: Set to launch in the latter half of 2024, this designation recognizes partners' support capabilities. A public preview is available for partners interested in qualifying early.
Manage Azure Spending with NCE
Effective August 15, 2023, the Azure Plan tab will retire from the Azure spending page.
Transition: Partners can now manage Azure budgets for new commerce or Azure plan in the new Azure Spending (NCE) page. Legacy Azure budgets can still be managed on the Azure spending page.
User Experience: The new Azure Spending (NCE) page offers improved functionality and a streamlined user experience. Partners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with it.
Teams Rooms Licensing Enforcement from October 1, 2023
Starting October 1, 2023, Microsoft Teams Rooms Licensing Policy will enforce mandatory Teams Rooms licenses.
Impact: Teams Rooms devices, including Personal Mode and Teams application on Surface Hub and Teams Panels, will require valid licenses to sign in.
Action Required: Partners should work with customers to provision and activate Teams Rooms licenses before the deadline to avoid service disruption.
Transition to $0.00 Audio Conferencing Offer
Until December 31, 2023, partners have the exclusive opportunity to transition from the $2.50 Audio Conferencing offer to the $0.00 Audio Conferencing offer.
Background: Microsoft introduced two Audio Conferencing SKUs in 2022, including one with a promotional price. This transition allows partners to align with the $0.00 offer.
Next Steps: Partners should review customer subscriptions and transition to the appropriate SKU based on their needs.
Conclusion
In short, it's a summary of Microsoft's August updates! Feeling a bit overwhelmed? It's understandable, and that's why we'll be doing these updates on a monthly basis.
So, as you reflect on these updates, consider the following: How can you take advantage of Microsoft's latest innovations to boost your business? If you're not sure, don't worry. Delve into our blog, contact us for information and, together, let's shape a way forward.
If you feel that some information is unclear or that you need some help to better understand some of these points, remember: We're here to guide you every step of the way.
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