Comparison: Gold vs Solutions Partner
How the Microsoft partnership is evolving: from Silver/Gold to the new Solutions Partner designations. Esamatic explains what this means for Italian companies.
The Microsoft Partner Program has undergone a major transformation. With the introduction of the Solutions Partner Designations, Microsoft has redefined the criteria used to evaluate and recognize its partners, replacing the traditional Silver and Gold levels. In this guide, Esamatic outlines the main differences and the strategic value of the new model for those who wish to collaborate with or become certified as a Microsoft Partner.
From Silver/Gold to Solutions Partner Designations
For many years, the Microsoft Partner Network program was based on two levels of competence: Silver and Gold. Each level represented the degree of specialization and commitment of the partner toward Microsoft solutions. With the evolution of the cloud market and the introduction of artificial intelligence, Microsoft decided to adopt a more integrated, results-oriented approach, creating the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program.
The new system introduces six main Solutions Partner designations, each focused on a specific area of expertise:
- Solutions Partner for Business Applications
- Solutions Partner for Data & AI (Azure)
- Solutions Partner for Digital & App Innovation (Azure)
- Solutions Partner for Infrastructure (Azure)
- Solutions Partner for Modern Work
- Solutions Partner for Security
Each designation represents a level of excellence measured through objective criteria and performance metrics known as the Partner Capability Score (PCS).
Comparison Table: Gold vs Solutions Partner
| Feature | Gold Partner (previous) | Solutions Partner (current) |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation Model | Based on individual certifications and completed projects | Based on overall capability score (PCS) |
| Focus | Technical skill of the team | Customer success, growth, and cloud performance |
| Levels | Silver and Gold | Single level: Solutions Partner |
| Evaluation Metrics | Certifications and references | Performance, Skills, Customer Success |
| Recognition Badge | Gold Partner logo | Digital Solutions Partner badge, specific by area |
Practical Examples from Esamatic
Esamatic is among the first Italian partners to embrace the new Solutions Partner model, transforming its long-standing experience as a Microsoft Gold Partner into a performance-driven, customer-impact-oriented approach.
1. Business Applications
Through projects based on Power Platform and Dynamics 365, Esamatic helps Italian companies digitalize their sales, marketing, and customer service processes. The goal is to maximize data value and automate business workflows.
2. Data & AI (Azure)
By integrating Microsoft Azure Machine Learning and tools like AI Builder, Esamatic supports the creation of predictive models and intelligent systems for business data analysis.
3. Modern Work
With Microsoft 365 and Teams, Esamatic develops secure, connected collaborative work environments, promoting remote productivity and information security.
How to Obtain the Solutions Partner Designation
The path to becoming a Solutions Partner is based on a scoring system that evaluates three key areas:
- Performance: customer growth and adoption of Microsoft solutions.
- Skills: number of certified professionals with official Microsoft exams.
- Customer Success: success measured through customer satisfaction and retention.
To achieve the designation, a partner must reach at least 70 out of 100 points in the Partner Capability Score. Esamatic supports companies throughout this qualification journey, offering mentoring, training, and technical assistance to improve scores across all three key areas.
Learn more about the official Microsoft Solutions Partner Program.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gold vs Solutions Partner
Does the Gold level still exist?
No, with the introduction of the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program, the old Silver and Gold levels have been replaced by the Solutions Partner designations. However, existing partners may temporarily keep their previous logos during the transition period.
What happens to existing Gold partners?
Gold partners are automatically considered for the new designations based on their performance and skills. For example, Esamatic has already achieved Solutions Partner recognition in multiple areas.
Are individual certifications still valid?
Yes, Microsoft certifications remain essential. However, they now contribute to the partner’s overall score rather than determining the Silver or Gold level alone.
Can I collaborate with Esamatic to become a Solutions Partner?
Absolutely. Esamatic offers dedicated mentoring programs for new Microsoft partners and companies that want to enhance their qualifications within the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program.
Collaborate with Esamatic and Become a Solutions Partner
Do you want to upgrade your Microsoft partnership or obtain the new Solutions Partner designation? Esamatic guides you step-by-step: from the initial assessment to team training.