Explore the Azure specialization V.Next—a streamlined path to Azure specializations
At Microsoft, our goal is to continually improve the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program experience, which includes updating specializations to help you deliver greater customer value and drive revenue. Below, you’ll find information on an exciting update we recently made to a key Azure specialization to improve the partner experience. The Build AI Apps on Microsoft Azure specialization—aligned to both the Data & AI (Azure) designation and the Digital & App Innovation (Azure) designation—is getting an updated path to meet the Module B audit requirement. With the Azure specialization V.Next, we are offering an alternative means to meet the audit requirement for this specialization by using completed engagement data through Azure Innovate partner-led scenarios. This new option cuts down on both time and cost for partners—making it easier for you to earn your Azure specializations. While the Build AI Apps specialization is the first to offer the V.Next option, our goal is to expand to all applicable Azure-aligned specializations in the future. Before Azure specialization V.Next, the audit was performed by a third-party supplier and consisted of Modules A and B. While this traditional path is still an option, the information that V.Next gathers through completed Azure Innovate partner-led qualified scenarios can meet the Module B portion of the audit. Module A is still required, but each partner only needs to complete it every other year. The Azure specialization V.Next is now live for the Build AI Apps on Microsoft Azure specialization and is applicable for qualified renewals as well as net new enrollment scenarios. Finally, as Microsoft approaches our 50th anniversary, we want to thank our partners for transforming businesses and communities around the world. Our goal remains to empower organizations, and our success hinges on how we harness Al and other technologies to amplify human achievement and create positive change for society. Explore specialization details in the walking deck. Discover how to apply for a specialization and browse the specializations overview page for more information.Skilling updates to the Analytics specialization, DW Migration specialization, and Azure Expert MSP
As always, Microsoft is seeking ways to evolve with the growing needs of our partners. Recent updates to some specialization requirements are just one way we’re working toward that goal. In the coming months, we will be adjusting the certification requirements for the Analytics on Microsoft Azure specialization, the Data Warehouse Migration to Microsoft Azure specialization, and the Azure Expert MSP offering. These updates are designed to account for the retirement of the Azure Data Engineer Associate certification on March 31, 2025. For both the Analytics specialization and the Data Warehouse Migration specialization, the Azure Data Engineer Associate certification will be replaced with the Fabric Data Engineer Associate certification. Your team can start preparing for this updated requirement today. For the Azure Expert MSP offering requirements, the Azure Data Engineer Associate certification is being removed without replacement. To meet the updated requirements when they go live, please ensure you have enough certified individuals in relevant certifications. The number of required certified individuals across each of the three offerings will remain the same. If you meet the prior requirements at the time of the change and are negatively impacted, you will have a six-month grace period to work toward meeting the new requirements. During this time, an override status will be indicated in Partner Center. Check out these links for more information: Skilling resources Specializations re-enrollments Analytics on Microsoft Azure specialization Data Warehouse Migration to Microsoft Azure specialization
