Microsoft Gulf joined together with key partners from Bahrain today to discuss the value of using genuine licensed Microsoft software and other benefits for partners in the region. Over ?? partners attended the Microsoft System Builder Conference, which was held today at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, to hear about new developments in Microsoft licensing and anti-counterfeit software initiatives, new products and partner programs.
“Microsoft’s system builder partners assemble computer systems to meet the specific requirements of customers, so they play a very important part of our operations both in Qatar and the wider Gulf region,” explained Sherif Bayoumi, Country Manager, Microsoft Bahrain. “The System Builder Conference aimed to update these important partners with all the latest offerings from Microsoft and to discuss ways in which we can work together to provide even more value to our customers, particularly with regard to the benefits of using genuine licensed software.”
Attendees to the event were briefed on Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) program, Microsoft’s on-going effort to protect its customers and partners from counterfeit software and to increase customer awareness of the value of genuine Windows XP. WGA gives consumers and businesses the confidence that they are running reliable, dependable, and more secure software, as well as providing access to additional free downloads, tools, and content to help them be more productive.
The conference also included sessions on the specialist Microsoft OEM certification that is available for system builder partners, and on applications that are important to system builders including Windows Small Business Server and the forthcoming Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office system. The System Builder Conference is a quarterly event for Microsoft, which is intended to help local partners to build their expertise and strengthen relationships with Microsoft.
“Partners are a vital part of Microsoft’s software ecosystem, and we work closely with them to help build their businesses and to increase their profitability. This conference gives us a platform to discuss the issues facing our system builder channel, and to give them a better understanding of how promoting licensed software to customers will strengthen the local IT economy in Qatar and create more opportunities for them,” said Bayoumi.
About Microsoft Gulf
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Gulf opened its Dubai-based headquarters in 1991. Microsoft Gulf today oversees Microsoft activities in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, the UAE and Yemen. Microsoft Corporation’s address on the World Wide Web is: www.microsoft.com Microsoft Middle East's Web site is: www.microsoft.com/middleeast
