TL;DR:
Imagine you want to buy a new phone, but instead of going directly to the manufacturer, you go to a trusted local store that offers not just the phone but also a protective case, a screen guard, and a warranty service. This store is your one-stop shop for everything you need. Similarly, the Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program allows businesses to purchase Microsoft cloud services and software licenses through Microsoft partners. These partners bundle the licenses with additional services like support, billing, and custom solutions, making it easier for businesses to manage their cloud needs in one place.
Details For the Techies:
The Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program is a licensing agreement that enables businesses to procure Microsoft cloud services and software licenses through authorized Microsoft partners. These partners offer a range of value-added services, including support, billing, and custom solutions, which help businesses manage their cloud infrastructure more effectively. The CSP program is designed to foster deeper customer engagements by allowing partners to own the customer lifecycle, set pricing, terms, and directly bill customers. There are two models within the CSP program: the indirect model, where partners work with an indirect provider for customer support and billing, and the direct-bill model, where partners purchase directly from Microsoft and manage their customers autonomously. This program not only simplifies the purchasing process but also provides partners with opportunities to offer industry-specific solutions and managed services, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and driving digital transformation.
