Understanding Microsoft’s Partner Program Changes

For years, Microsoft’s Gold Partner designation was the benchmark for technical expertise. That program is now retired. In its place, Microsoft introduced Solutions Partner designations, credentials that go beyond logos and require measurable expertise, advanced certifications, and proven customer success.

This change matters because it raises the bar. It ensures that partners are not just familiar with Microsoft technologies but deeply skilled and consistently delivering results.

EXP Technical’s Microsoft Solutions Partner Designations

EXP Technical is proud to hold two Solutions Partner designations:

• Modern Work: Helping small businesses in the Pacific Northwest maximize productivity and security with Microsoft 365, Teams, and collaboration tools

• Infrastructure (Azure): Delivering scalable cloud solutions, migrations, and infrastructure modernization to small businesses across the Puget Sound region

These designations reflect our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and investing in the skills that matter most to our clients.

Why Did Microsoft Make This Change?

The old Gold and Silver badges of years past were widely recognized, but they did not always reflect real-world performance. Solutions Partner designations are earned through:

• Advanced technical certifications

• Demonstrated customer success metrics

• Ongoing investment in Microsoft technologies

This means when you work with a Solutions Partner, you are working with a team that meets Microsoft’s highest standards.

A Word from Our Leadership

“Earning Microsoft Solutions Partner designations is no small feat. Today Microsoft requires partners like EXP to put in significant effort to educate and certify our team, prove that clients are using the right features, and demonstrate that we keep our clients secure.

Our team has put in many hours to achieve the necessary certifications and work with our clients to meet all the requirements. This hard work ensures our clients get support from experts in the products they use to do business every day.”

— Tony Lesirge, EXP Technical CEO, Managing Principal

Why This Matters for Your Business

Many small businesses rely on Microsoft 365 and Azure as essential building blocks for productivity, security, and long-term success. Choosing a Microsoft Solutions Partner ensures you have a team that understands both the technology and the strategy behind it.

Microsoft validates partners through its official directory. EXP Technical meets those standards as a Solutions Partner for Modern Work and Azure.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Ready to modernize your workplace or migrate to Azure?

Contact us today and discover why businesses in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Tacoma and across the Pacific Northwest trust EXP Technical for Microsoft 365 and Azure solutions.