Microsoft’s recent announcement to discontinue its Microsoft Action Pack and Microsoft Learning Pack has sent ripples through its partner network. Effective January 21, 2025, these changes will push partners toward more advanced, cloud-centric subscription options.
Here is a quick reminder of what’s being discontinued:
- Microsoft Action Pack: This is a subscription-based service offering a bundle of Microsoft software licenses, technical support, and other resources for a fixed annual fee. It has been a popular choice among small to medium-sized partners for its cost-effective access to a wide range of Microsoft products and tools.
- Microsoft Learning Pack: Similar to the Action Pack, this package provided resources and tools designed for training and development. It supported partners in building and enhancing their technical skills and knowledge about Microsoft products.
What replaces them?
- Partner Success Core Benefits: This new offering is positioned as a more comprehensive and higher-cost alternative to the Action Pack. It focuses on cloud-based solutions, providing partners with access to Microsoft’s cloud services, including Azure, Microsoft 365, and Dynamics 365. This package aims to align partners with the current trend toward cloud computing and the expanding suite of Microsoft cloud products.
- Partner Success Expanded Benefits: This is an upgraded version of the Core Benefits package, offering even more resources and support. It’s designed for partners who need a broader range of tools and services, reflecting a higher investment in Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem.
Impact on partners
- Increased costs: The transition from the Action Pack to the Partner Success Core Benefits represents a significant cost increase. Partners moving to the new model may see their expenses more than double, as noted by some users who would pay £735 + VAT compared to the previous £390 + VAT for the Action Pack.
- Shift to cloud services: The new benefits packages emphasize cloud services over on-premises solutions. This shift aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to prioritize cloud computing. Partners will need to adapt to these changes, potentially requiring new skills and adjustments in how they manage customer environments.
- Reduced flexibility: For partners who rely heavily on legacy software or on-premises solutions, the shift to cloud-based options may introduce challenges. Recreating customer environments that are tied to older technologies could become more complicated and costly.
- Historical context: Microsoft’s decision follows a pattern of significant changes to its licensing and partner benefits structure. Previously, the company faced backlash when it attempted to remove Internal Use Rights (IURs) from its licenses. This history of adjustments indicates that partners should stay alert to further modifications and prepare for potential impacts.
Looking forward
The discontinuation of the Action Pack and Learning Pack is part of Microsoft’s strategy to evolve its partner benefits in line with modern technology trends. Partners will need to evaluate how these changes affect their business models, budgets, and client services. As the tech landscape continues to shift toward cloud solutions, staying informed and adaptable will be key to thriving in this new environment.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s licensing overhaul is a significant development with substantial implications for its partner network. Understanding these changes in detail will help partners navigate the transition and make informed decisions about their future with Microsoft.
Featured image credit: Eray Eliaçık/Bing
