Article Don't be a part of someone else's plan - make your own!
Don't be a part of someone else's plan - make your own!
By Insight UK / 22 Jan 2024 / Topics: Managed services IT optimization
Terence McKenna once said, "If you don't have a plan, you become part of somebody else's plan."
Be on time
This is especially true when it comes to renewing your Microsoft contract, which is due to expire in 2024. Whether it's Q1 or Q4, it's crucial to anticipate and plan well in advance.
The ultimate goal is to fully understand the context, challenges, and opportunities, so you can make informed decisions about which subscriptions to sign up for and what kind of contract to enter into. It's not just about what you want to achieve - it's also about keeping a peripheral view and anticipating what you'll need to overcome.
It’s more than just an objective and a plan
Start by gathering deployment data, optimising usage, and identifying roadmap requirements. Bring IT and other departments together as part of a larger project. Keep in mind that technology can be required by both the business and IT, so make sure you have the resources and budget for deployment, training, and support.
When it comes to negotiations, be strategic about who you include on your core team and who you bring in for escalation meetings. Keep in mind that your IT team may be talking to Microsoft experts, so be mindful of the information exchanges that may be happening.
Here are a few examples to consider:
● Your IT team is probably talking to Microsoft experts for many good reasons. Whilst that is the case, you may want to limit the information exchange as it is likely going to impact your negotiations position.
● Which colleagues will be part of your core negotiations team? Which colleagues will need to be included in the extended team and for potential escalation meetings?
● How about any upcoming holiday season, how to account for that?
● Technology can be required by the business and/or IT. Do you also have the resources and the budget for deployment, training, and support?
● How does your Microsoft roadmap relate to Microsoft’s strategy and sales objectives?
The earlier, the better
Optimising your deployment and usage is more important than ever, and it's the best starting point for a strong negotiations position. If your Microsoft contract is due to expire in May or June this year, start your negotiations soon. Get an optimised Bill of Materials and be ready to negotiate with confidence.
Connect with us
Book a meeting if you need help. Either myself or one of my team can help you establish an optimised Bill of Materials and provide you with successful negotiation strategies and support.
Marc Brasser
Microsoft Optimisation & Governance Services, Practice Manager
Insight
