Microsoft has revealed an Open Licensing programme for the Azure platform, which enables the quick build, deployment and management of cloud-based solutions.

Previously there were two options for purchasing Microsoft Azure – through the Azure website or as part of an Enterprise Agreement with Microsoft.

The new Open Licensing programme means that Azure will now be available through a familiar licensing option, offering the benefits of Microsoft Volume Licensing, flexible monetary payments, and the opportunity to grow margins and deepen relationships with customers.

“In my job, I spend a lot of time sharing ideas and information on how you, our partners, can successfully make the transition to the cloud,” said Josh Waldo, senior director of Microsoft’s Cloud Partner Strategy, in a blog post. “Research has shown that cloud partners are outperforming their competition and that cloud is growing at five times the rate of the IT industry overall.”

Partners reselling Azure in Open Licensing purchase tokens from preferred distributors and apply the credit to customer’s Azure Portal in increments of US$100.

“The credits can be used for any consumption-based service available in Azure,” explains Waldo. “To add more credit, you simply purchase new tokens and add them to the account. This gives you the opportunity to manage your customer’s portal, setup services, and monitor consumption, all while maintaining a direct relationship.”

Azure in Open Licensing will be available this August.

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