What Are The Changes Made by Microsoft in the Enterprise Agreement Criteria?
Microsoft made a crucial announcement in November 2024 that many Enterprise Agreements in direct markets will not be renewed. And, earlier this year, many customers were notified regarding the same.
With this change, many businesses were steered towards the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program. This shift can be majorly seen among mid-sized businesses, working with a user or device capacity of less than or equal to 2,400. The potential disruptions that may be caused by this shift from EA to CSP have raised concerns among businesses.
A Smooth Transition to CSP with IFI Tech
This shift from EA to CSP can rather be seen as an opportunity rather than a matter of concern with the right partner like IFI Tech. Our easy and fast transition support can help you eliminate all the complications. Your EA to CSP journey can be completed in the smoothest way possible.
With the Azure Expert MSP status of IFI Tech, moving from EA to CSP can be completed without disrupting your operations. We can make it as simple as a billing change for your business instead of any major technical migration. The ultimate benefits of our partnership in this transition is less downtime, no upfront cost, and shorter waiting hours.
Challenges Turned into Opportunities
Disruption Can Be Risky
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Unlock Flexibility and Savings with CSP Migration!
IFI Tech Delivers Speed and Ease
- No cost incurred upfront
- Completion in 48 hours
- No need for resource recreation
- Zero downtime
- Technical migration avoided
- IFI Tech expertise for continued support and cost optimization
What Makes CSP a Sensible Option?
Let’s be honest: customers don’t just buy licenses anymore. They seek comprehensive solutions. That’s where CSP partners have the chance to shine.
- Go Beyond Licensing: Show customers how CSP allows you to wrap services like governance, security, cost management, and ongoing support into one package.
- Be a Trusted Guide: Microsoft licensing seems like a complicated option for enterprises. You can simplify this procedure and position yourself not only as a seller but also as a strategic advisor.
- Focus on Flexibility: CSP gives businesses more options for scaling up or down, which can be very appealing compared to the long-term commitments of EA.
In other words, don’t just compete on price. Lead with value.
Making the Transition Smooth
EA customers shall now be concerned about the complications that come with switching licensing models. However, we must inform you that the right distributor can make the migration process not just smooth but fast as well.
CSP partners can ease the transition by:
- Working with distributors who provide ready-made migration frameworks.
- Ensuring continuity of services during the switch.
- Offering managed support so the customer feels cared for, not just sold to.
The message to customers is simple: moving from EA to CSP doesn’t have to be a headache.
Who Is Impacted Most?
The update is not going to impact any particular segment of customers, but all tiers of EA need to pay attention.
- Mid-market businesses: that entered EA for cloud solutions may now find CSP more attractive.
- Large enterprises : with global agreements will likely revisit their strategies, especially if they seek adaptability.
- Smaller EA customers:who were already on the fence now have more reason to consider switching.
This wide impact means CSP partners can engage in new conversations with nearly every EA customer segment.
Steps You Should Take Now!
- Map your EA customers Identify the customers who have their renewals upcoming in 12 to 18 months.
- Start conversations early Place CSP as an equal alternative with added benefits.
- Highlight your services Beyond licenses, talk about security, governance, support, and managed solutions.
- Work with the right distributorDeliver a promising, smooth transition without disruptions.
- Educate your customersMany customers do not yet know about this update. You can win the trust of your customers as you inform them first.
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Level Pricing. Unlimited Possibilities with IFI Tech.!
Final Takeaway!
The EA discount removal by Microsoft for online services is more than just a change in pricing. It is a critical step towards regaining the balance between EA and CSP, giving partners a real chance to showcase their value.
Customers no longer need to stick to EA only for cost savings. They are free to explore options like CSP without the guilt of giving up cost benefits.
This is a significant step for partners as they get real solutions that make licensing simpler, services richer, and business outcomes stronger.
The latest changes in the industry are not meant to be unsettling with the right partner on your side. At IFI Tech, we offer you comprehensive professional support as the industry evolves and you need to adapt.
