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
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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News
22 Feb 2022
Sapphire Systems building digital operations platform proposition
Firm identifies opportunity to target mid-enterprise market with an offering that touches on finance, asset management and supply chain Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Feb 2022
Balancing the risks as an MSP
There is a growing trend among partners in converting into managed service providers – but are there risks to this approach that the channel needs to be aware of? Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Feb 2022
Predictions for the manufacturing industry in 2022 and beyond
Jason Chester, director of global channel programmes at InfinityQS, provides his thoughts on what we can expect to see from the manufacturing industry over the next 12 months and beyond Continue Reading
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News
28 Jan 2022
Capita offloads Trustmarque
Divestment strategy continues with sale of software and services player as Capita prunes its portfolio Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2022
SCC extends HMRC deal
Channel player gets another five-year contract worth £91m to continue to work with the government’s tax department Continue Reading
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News
21 Jan 2022
ThoughtSpot looks for channel growth
Self-service data analytics player believes the market is there and that the channel growth opportunities are attractive Continue Reading
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E-Zine
07 Jan 2022
MicroScope: Squaring up to ransomware
In this issue, discover how to best fend off the ever-increasing threat of ransomware, learn what the next stage of the data warehouse could be, and find out what leading channel experts believe awaits the industry in the year ahead Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2021
Workflow player monday.com seeks UK channel growth
Firm has cut the ribbon on a London HQ and is keen to increase partner numbers and revenues coming through the channel Continue Reading
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E-Zine
03 Dec 2021
MicroScope: Valuing the MSP
In this month’s MicroScope, we look at why customers should be prepared to pay for the value offered by a managed service provider, identify the biggest drivers in the data storage market, and look at why some firms are struggling to get to grips with remote working. Read the issue now Continue Reading
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News
05 Nov 2021
Channel petition urges Microsoft to reconsider 365 price changes
Momentum in the partner community is gathering around attempts to get Microsoft to review its planned Office 365 price increase Continue Reading
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E-Zine
05 Nov 2021
MicroScope: Scaling the skills shortage
Navigating the challenges of retaining talent is an increasing concern for the channel, with many professionals set to change jobs – discover why this is and how big of a problem the industry faces. Also read about the increase in demand for anything as a service, and why exactly the channel keeps enduring through the years Continue Reading
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News
20 Oct 2021
Avanade adds more Microsoft depth with Quantiq buy
Tie-up will give more depth around Microsoft business applications and support for those customers undergoing digital transformation Continue Reading
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News
06 Oct 2021
Channel will have to wait for impact of Windows 11 launch
Views coming out of Canalys Channel Forum indicate that maybe 2022 is going to be a year when the OS makes a real impact Continue Reading
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News
05 Oct 2021
SoftwareONE adds SAP depth with Centiq buy
Firm is back in the acquisition game as it continues to add more muscle to its EMEA coverage and ability to support SAP customers Continue Reading
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News
04 Oct 2021
Enterprise software an investment target
The channel has seen investment levels rise this year, and market dynamics are making those involved with supporting the changing working world attractive to backers Continue Reading
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E-Zine
01 Oct 2021
MicroScope: Choosing a channel career
In this issue, we explore whether more partners equals better business, and take a closer look at how IT consumption is changing thanks to subscription services. Also read a special feature looking into whether the channel offers good prospects for school-leavers hoping to start on a career path that could make a difference Continue Reading
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News
20 Sep 2021
K3 continues to slim down business with Sage unit sale
Pinnacle Computing adds more depth to its claim to be the leading Sage channel partner with the acquisition Continue Reading
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E-Zine
03 Sep 2021
MicroScope: Stepping forward after Covid
In this issue, discover what the lasting impact of Covid-19 is likely to be as the channel emerges into a post-pandemic world. Also discover more about disaster recovery for SMEs and how best to make a plan to protect your business, and read about an uptick in cloud-based contact centre-as-a-service solutions Continue Reading
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News
20 Aug 2021
Microsoft 365 price hikes coming
Software giant gives six months’ notice of the first price rises since it launched the product suite a decade ago Continue Reading
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News
21 Jul 2021
Computacenter on track for another strong year
Computacenter issues trading update covering H1, with the business enjoying growth and positioned to build on that in the second half Continue Reading
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News
21 Jul 2021
Node4 expands Microsoft expertise with TNP buy
Addition of Microsoft gold partner will add more expertise and knowledge to managed service provider’s business Continue Reading
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Opinion
16 Jul 2021
Welcome to the age of insight
HPE CEO Antonio Neri talked at the company’s recent shindig of the need to give customers insights into their data, but just how easy will that be? Continue Reading
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News
15 Jul 2021
Microsoft channel boss ramps up spending on digital and technical support
Vendor uses Inspire event to reveal plans for next year, including a revamped deal reg and significant increases in technical skills training Continue Reading
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E-Zine
02 Jul 2021
MicroScope: Life on the edge
With opportunities around edge computing on the up, we ask experts to weigh in on how the channel can approach using the tech to its advantage. Also discover how to encourage employees to take cyber security lessons seriously, and how collaboration is key to growth this year Continue Reading
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News
01 Jul 2021
Coupa takes sustainability pitch to the channel
Business spend management specialist puts more emphasis on environmental product features as customers look to measure their green credentials Continue Reading
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News
23 Jun 2021
Stone Group gets refurbisher status from Microsoft
Channel player will be able to add Windows 10 onto refurbished hardware and help others in the market handle their licences Continue Reading
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E-Zine
04 Jun 2021
MicroScope: A hybrid working world
With hybrid working set to become the norm as the world starts to return to a more normal footing post-Covid, we look at how businesses are preparing for the new world of work. Also discover how to tackle the sustainability challenge, and have some key questions answered around handling bottlenecks caused by large volumes of data Continue Reading
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News
20 May 2021
Fujitsu putting €3m into its channel programme
Vendor will use funds to support enhancements and increase rewards for partners that line up behind its strategic areas of focus Continue Reading
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News
11 May 2021
Workato builds a European channel
Automation specialist is investing in its platform infrastructure and expects that to translate to rising channel partner numbers Continue Reading
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E-Zine
07 May 2021
MicroScope: Exploring digital metamorphosis
Digital transformation is the buzz phrase, but is it more a question of evolution? In this issue, experts weigh in on digitisation and its effect on the world of work. Also read about local broadband providers aiming to improve internet connection and productivity, and find out how to tackle sales in a post-pandemic landscape Continue Reading
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News
28 Apr 2021
Red Hat CEO calls on partners to get behind hybrid cloud
Open source player is holding its Summit event, with the partner keynote session seeing CEO Paul Cormier promise more improvements for partners Continue Reading
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News
27 Apr 2021
BitTitan gives partners more targets with Perspectium buy
Acquisition gives cloud migration player greater access to ServiceNow world and its partners the chance to extend their reach Continue Reading
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News
20 Apr 2021
Unit4 cheers channel momentum
Figures for the first quarter reveal that the ERP player has seen triple-digit growth in the value of contracts coming from partners Continue Reading
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E-Zine
09 Apr 2021
MicroScope: Chart course to Covid-19 recovery
Customers have had to react to changes caused by the pandemic, so what decisions have they made in the past year? In this issue, we explore how businesses have adapted to the new normal, different approaches to remote working, and take a look at the challenge of sustainability Continue Reading