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Softchoice One of the First Solution Providers in the U.S. Admitted to Microsoft Software Asset Management Managed Service ProgramSoftchoice, a leading North American IT solution and managed service provider, is pleased to announce it has been approved by Microsoft (News - Alert) as one of a select group of Microsoft partners to provide services through the Microsoft Software Asset Management (SAM) Managed Service Program. Softchoice (News - Alert) is one of the first Microsoft Cloud Service Provider (CSP) and Licensing Solutions Provider (LSP) to be admitted to the program in the United States. The Microsoft SAM Managed Service Program is a pilot program currently available in the US and UK markets. The program is designed to provide a continual, governance-based, outsourced service, through accredited providers to help customers more effectively manage their software assets. By introducing customers to SAM best practices, tools, and resources while providing a complete view of their infrastructure, the program is designed to help them drive better IT decisions throughout all software and related asset lifecycle management. "For more than a decade through our IT asset management services, Softchoice has helped thousands of customers ensure they use the things they're paying for, and pay for the things they're using," said Dave Brisbois, Senior Manager, Assessment Services at Softchoice. "With a focus on ITAM in the hybrid cloud world, our IT Asset Management as a Service (ITAMaaS) Suite offers organizations a comprehensive and flexible solution with a single view of their entire IT asset mix, as well as analysis and guidance from our team of ITAM experts. We connect the dots between usage, software and SaaS (News - Alert) contracts, and deployed assets to deliver clarity on compliance and ROI." By working with approved partners for the program, such as Softchoice, SAM Managed Service Program customers can receive unique Microsoft benefits. Some of these benefits include a reduced risk of audit and direct contact with Microsoft teams that can provide flexible licensing solutions and concessions. Customers will also receive continuous consultation on product end-of-life guidance and Microsoft SAM Optimization Model (SOM) maturity, and at least one on-going value-based offering from their accredited provider such as a cybersecurity or cloud-ready consultation and roadmap. To ensure the highest quality of service, Softchoice passed a rigorous assessment based on industry standards (ISO 19770) and the Microsoft SOM to be able to become an accredited provider and offer services through the pilot program. Softchoice also had to meet a set of initial eligibility criteria and was required to certify and maintain certain certifications through the Microsoft Certification Program, including Software Asset Management, Microsoft Volume Licensing and Cloud Fundamentals. The program requires that all accredited providers undergo an annual reassessment to ensure they remain accredited and qualified based on program requirements. "We are committed to helping all organizations maximize value, minimize risk, and achieve more with their IT investments through programs like the Microsoft SAM Managed Service Program. By making the necessary investments in developing their ability to provide high-quality, predictable SAM services, Softchoice is able to be counted among a select group of organizations that have demonstrated the highest, most consistent capability and commitment within the SAM community," said Patama Chantaruck, General Manager - Worldwide Software Asset Management and Compliance at Microsoft. About Softchoice As a leading North American provider of IT solutions and managed services, Softchoice combines the efficiency and reliability of a national IT supplier with the personal touch and technical expertise of a local solutions provider. Softchoice's holistic approach to technology includes solution design, implementation, asset management, and cloud and managed services, as well as access to one of the most comprehensive and cost-effective technology distribution networks in North America. With over 1,600 employees, Softchoice manages the technology needs of thousands of corporate and public sector organizations across the United States and Canada.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170713005721/en/ |
