Microsoft Windows

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SQL Server 2008

Visual Studio 2008

Microsoft Forefront

Overview

Forefront Product Line

Microsoft System Center

Data Protection Manager 2007

Microsoft Online Services

Business Productivity Online Suite & Online Deskless Suite

Software Assurance

Software Assurance Overview

Software Assurance Services

Software Assurance Benefits

Activating Software Assurance

Downloads and Links

Software Assurance Services

Stage 1:

PlanBuild your business around the technology, budget more effectively, and simplify the software procurement process.

New Version Rights
Enable organizations to deploy new releases of Microsoft software as soon as they become available.

Spread Payments
Provides companies that want greater flexibility in managing technology expenditures the ability to make annual payments, instead of one upfront payment.

Stage 2:

DeployGet the most value out of your software with planning services that help you discover and design solutions for your business

Desktop Deployment Planning Services
New in 2006! Enable you to assess and evaluate the business value of upgrading your Microsoft Office and Windows Client software, and deploy it more easily.

Information Work Solution Services
New in 2006! Get more from your productivity applications and fully leverage the capabilities of your IT infrastructure.

Windows Pre-installation Environment
IT Professionals can build custom solutions that speed software deployment through automation, so they spend less time and effort keeping desktops updated.

Stage 3:

UseTake advantage of the latest technology and build better technology deployment, migration, and management skills

Windows Vista Enterprise
New in 2006! Helps large organizations lower deployment and management costs and better protect critical data.

Training Vouchers
Enhanced in 2006! Provide your IT teams with free training on select courses designed by Microsoft and delivered by Microsoft Certified Partners in your area. Eligible customers can receive additional vouchers beginning March 2006.

Microsoft E-Learning
Uses simulations, demonstrations, animations, hands-on exercises, and assessment to help employees upgrade skills and knowledge.

Home Use Program
Allows workers more flexible workspace options so they can be connected and productive from home.

Employee Purchase Program
Gives employees significant discounts over retail pricing on Microsoft’s most popular productivity and consumer products.

Enterprise Source Licensing Program (ESLP)
Provides eligible customers with 1,500 or more licensed desktops access to Microsoft Windows source code for internal development and support.

Stage 4: Maintain

Maintain a stable IT environment through services, tools, and reference materials to support networks and desktops

24 x 7 Problem Resolution Support
Enhanced in 2006! Lets you stay continuously connected with Microsoft for your support needs through phone and Web support.

Corporate Error Reporting
Reports system crashes and gives IT staff the ability to monitor and review error information to control deployment of fixes.

Cold” Backups for Disaster Recovery
Provides complimentary "cold” backup server licenses in the event of a disaster.

TechNet Plus and TechNet Managed Newsgroups
Gives access to TechNet Managed Newsgroups and subscription media, featuring Microsoft Knowledge Base, software updates, utilities, drivers, and how-to articles.

Stage 5:

Transition
For customers that need to transition their software, Microsoft offers technology and support benefits

Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs for Software Assurance
New in 2006! A Windows-based operating system for customers with legacy PCs who are running legacy operating systems and are not in a position to purchase new hardware.

Extended Hot-fix Support
Enhanced in 2006! Enables hot-fixes for products on-demand, which means there are no initial registrations or fees prior to the time you need to activate the benefit