All you've gotta do is figure out which bits to focus on

Now that SBS2008 has been announced, there's going to be a lot of effort/discussion over the coming months as to which bits partners need to be focusing on. Like any new or upgraded product, not everything is going to be suitable for everyone, but there is the temptation that you need to be across all the new inclusions.

There's an argument to be made that VARs need to be more like GPs rather than specialists - but where does that stop? The counter to this is that some solution providers are starting to really hone their skills in specific areas - being the best in Brisbane, for example, at hosted Exchange or whatever. What's your business philosophy?

This also goes for deciding on which bits of the product to take out to your customers as part of the overall solution. Ie, just because Microsoft has included Forefront (12mth trial), doesn't mean that you need to include this in the install if you happen to prefer another AV provider. For me, the question is one of "internal capabilities" versus "external fit". In other words, what are you best at delivering, in light of what you feel the customers most want.

Thoughts?

Robbie

sbs-chart 

Windows Small Business Server 2008 Premium Edition becomes a second server solution. Standard Edition will run on one hardware server and Premium Edition will run on two hardware servers, with the second server running Windows Server and SQL Server for Line of Business applications.

Windows Small Business Server 2008 will include individual Client Access Licenses (CALs) for Standard and Premium Editions vs. a common CAL for both.

Windows Small Business Server 2008 will include the option to purchase a single CAL (in addition to 5/10/20 CAL Packs) in all channels.

All processor and memory limits will now match Windows Server 2008 Standard Edition.

* One year trial included in the product.

** Available in the following markets: US, UK, Japan, Germany and France. More markets to come later.