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What do you want to see at the UK SBS 2008 Launch?

In May 2006 we had a server event for guys (and gals) who sell server - specifically Small Business Server. We split the event into two - the morning event was for those who were new to selling SBS and the afternoon track was for those who already have a great deal of experience in selling SBS. Both sessions went down a storm where we covered off all sorts from market analytics to Windows Mobile with SBS. With the learnings from that event and feedback from YOU, we're hoping to do it again - but better.

So, while James tries to uncover how you want your content delivered, I'm keen to understand what exactly it is that you need from us. And it may seem obvious to you. But tell me anyway. As we plan the UK launch event for around the September/October timeframe, it would be really helpful to hear from you on what you need from us - either at the potential launch event, or before that via webcasts.

So give me a shout. Email me: sgathani@microsoft.com. Call me: 07837383519. Whatever works. But give me a shout and let me know what you'd like to see around SBS or EBS at the 2008 launch event. I really do want to hear from you.

Posted: Friday, June 27, 2008 5:06 PM by Sonal Gathani

Comments

vriyait said:

Hi Sonal,

Here are a couple of my thoughts :-

Pre-launch:

- Webcasts would be good on SBS 2008 and EBS (maybe start with an overview one) and then have ones which go into more technical depth

- Hands on Labs (I believe these aren't quite ready for general release) but would be great to get available

- Migration Scenarios

- Virtualisation Scenarios

- Early adopter programme for customers

Launch Event:

- Pricing & Licensing

- SWAG (free copy of SBS 2008?)

- Partner Opportunities

- MS Campaigns to support Partner Selling

# June 27, 2008 6:23 PM

nick_lloyd said:

Webcasts would certainly be good, ones that we can attend when they're live and go back to as a recorded one. Overview and technical would certainly be good, but I'd also like to see content that would help our Sales Director. Something that highlights the advantages of SBS 2008 over 2003. Reasons to go for the new technology over the old and reasons to upgrade.

At the launch pricing and licensing is key, it would be even nicer if we could get this before the launch. Maybe some sales material that is either for immediate customer consumption or to help us design our own material. Maybe something like SBSOffer.com to encourage partners to push the new OS.

# June 28, 2008 9:32 AM

David Overton's Blog said:

One thing I have never been accused of is holding back my opinion and on the Yahoo Groups recently there

# June 28, 2008 2:38 PM

vriyait said:

Hi Sonal,

I just wanted to say that as one of the SBSC PALs for the UK for the coming year, you've got my full support for your activities. I think I can speak for the Midlands SBS Group on this as well, that you're welcome to come up to Birmingham anytime and get our input. We always appreciate the time Microsoft peeps take out to come and talk to us.

Speak soon,

Vijay

# June 28, 2008 5:05 PM

alansilvester said:

We're gonna need a hell of a lot of impressive marketing material to justify moving customers from SBS 2003 to 2008!

# July 3, 2008 7:24 AM

Steve Wright said:

Hi Sonal,

From our perspective we would like to see some specific information relating to why an existing SBS 2003 client should upgrade to SBS 2008. It is relatively easy sell to a new client without a server or if their existing hardware is due for change and they are running OEM product. It is much harder to convince SBS 2003 users to upgrade without having a compelling reason to do so – so webcasts based around the benefits would be useful. What about insights from early adopters about the value they are getting from SBS2008 v SBS 2003? I understand we missed out on the TAP program in the UK which is a shame as we have a client who is straining at the leash to get their hands on SBS 2008 and I’m sure they would have made a very compelling story.

There seems to be confusion around the licensing for SBS 2008 and what components of SBS can be installed on the 1st/2nd server. Clarification on these issues would be good before and at the launch to stop misinformation.

Sales information is vital. It is easy to get our tech guys fired up and learning about new products but much harder to get the sales guys motivated, so materials aimed directly at selling would be welcome.

# July 4, 2008 5:59 AM

rtubb said:

Sonal - I'd second Steve's request - I'd like to see strong selling points on how SBS 2008 helps the clients business with compelling reasons to upgrade from SBS 2003. In a nutshell, help us as Partners describe to clients how SBS 2008 helps their pain points and fears rather than focussing on how Technically wonderful the new product is!

# July 14, 2008 1:43 PM

Team Blog for EMEA SBS Team. said:

Just in case you missed this; What do you want to see at the UK SBS 2008 Launch? Here is your chance

# July 16, 2008 9:18 AM
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