Nicole Dezen, Chief Partner Officer and Corporate Vice President of Global Partner Solutions, has provided a comprehensive update on the ‘State of the Partner Ecosystem’ for 2024.
In a recent Microsoft blog post, Dezen emphasized the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) as a defining technology of our era. She highlighted the profound possibilities that AI unlocks for individuals, organizations, and society, noting that we have only begun to scratch the surface of its capabilities.
At Microsoft, the focus is on innovating and democratizing breakthroughs in AI, offering partners a generational opportunity to reimagine software and services capabilities. Dezen unveiled several updates to the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program aimed at empowering partners to leverage AI more effectively. These updates include expanded AI skilling and events, new benefits packages with enhancements like Microsoft 365 developer tools, and new partner designations to certify AI solutions and foster differentiation.
Dezen also shared remarkable growth in the number of partners engaged in generative AI-related initiatives, with a nearly 250% increase over the past eight months. She highlighted pioneering efforts from partners such as Accenture, Avanade, Amadeus, Blue Yonder, and Sight Machine, showcasing diverse applications of AI across industries.
For instance, Accenture and Avanade collaborated with Amadeus to develop a generative AI-powered interactive assistant, while Blue Yonder leverages AI and machine learning for end-to-end supply chain management. Additionally, Sight Machine is working with manufacturers to strengthen their businesses through Factory Copilot.
Dezen expressed pride in the progress made by partners in translating the promise of AI into tangible outcomes worldwide. She emphasized Microsoft’s commitment to infusing AI across its technology stack, driving organizational and industry transformation, and unlocking new opportunities to deliver value to customers at scale.