Business Applications Competencies - Microsoft Support (2023)

Overview

Worldwide, business is moving to the cloud. We’re focused on supporting you through this shift to a thriving cloud-based economy by ensuring you have the technical capabilities to meet your customers’ needs. With that in mind, we’re updating several Business Applications competencies, adding a new partner association model, and implementing a tool to give you more visibility into metrics. Our goal is to create differentiated value by recognizing you for driving successful business outcomes.

Review the information in this document to understand how the updates may impact your business and prepare accordingly.

Summary of updates

1. New partner association model—Digital Partner of Record (DPOR) no longer used

We’re moving to a claims-based process to recognize the work you do with customers. Digital Partner of Record (DPOR) will no longer be used to associate partners with subscriptions as of March 2019. Instead, partners with a competency must be associated at the subscription level. You can do this by submitting a claim for Dynamics 365 Online subscriptions. This new partner association method aligns to the Online Services Advisory (OSA) sell incentives program. This will put partners in control as a recognized partner associated to customers and lessen the dependency on customer actions.

For more instructions on how to submit claims and the latest information please view these resources.

If you were selected as the DPOR for customer subscriptions before February 15, 2019, you don’t need to reassociate yourself through the new claims model. Any increase in seats reported on existing subscriptions will still be recognized automatically, as will seat increases under the claims model.

2. The Cloud Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Competency is retiring October 1, 2020. The last day to attain or renew this competency was September 30, 2019.

The Cloud CRM competency will be retiring October 1, 2020 and is no longer be available for attainment or renewal as of October 1, 2019. If you renewed or attained your competency by September 30, 2019, you will continue to have access to your competency benefits until your anniversary date. To renew or attain a competency you must meet the published requirements and pay the fee. We encourage you to work toward attaining the Cloud Business Applications competency before the anniversary date of your Cloud CRM competency.

3. The Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Competency updates effective October 2019.

The ERP Competency has been updated to recognize revenue performance for Microsoft Dynamics 365 NAV, GP, SL, or Dynamics 365 Business Central.

If you renewed or attained your ERP Competency before October 2019, you won’t be impacted by this update until your anniversary date. Starting October 2019, you’ll only be eligible to renew if you’re selling Microsoft Dynamics 365 NAV, GP, SL, or Dynamics 365 Business Central.AX on-premises will no longer count toward any competency.

If your Dynamics 365 business practice does not include any of these products, consider attaining the Cloud Business Applications Competency to differentiate your organization within the growing Dynamics 365 partner ecosystem.

4. Exams updates coming to the Cloud Business Application Competency:

If you specialize in implementation, deployment, and management of Dynamics 365, the Cloud Business Applications Competency recognizes you with specific role-based learning and exams differentiated by applications.

  • New role-based exams for functional consultants became available starting July 2019, with new exams being released for developers and solution architects in 2020. Core exams MB-200 and MB-300 will be enforced to attain or renew a Cloud Business Applications competency beginning October 1, 2019.

    (Video) Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event 2022 release wave 1

  • Many of the current exams were retired with the release of the new exams on June 30, 2019. You will continue to be able to attain the competencybased on the retired exams 12 more months after retirement date. You can always check themost current exam requirements by accessing theCloud Business Applications competency pageor sign in to Partner Center.

  • In addition to this information, your Microsoft Partner Network admin will receive an email with details and instructions. Learn more about the certifications strategy for Dynamics 365 Customer Engagement and for Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations.

5. Cloud Business Applications Competency performance requirements effective July 2019:

  • Starting July 2019, performance requirements will only recognize Dynamics 365 cloud revenue. On-premises revenue will no longer qualify partners for Cloud Business Applications Competency.

  • With the momentum of the Dynamics 365 cloud apps in Finance and Operations, only those partners who are driving cloud transformation for customers will be recognized in the Cloud Business Applications Competency.

Business Applications Competencies - Microsoft Support (1)

Business Applications Competencies - Microsoft Support (2)

6. NewPartner Contribution Indicators (PCI)

Partner Contribution Indicators (PCI) provides a holistic measure of a partner’s impact in driving successful customer outcomes and, therefore, greater differentiation in the market. Partners receive credit for key measures of customer success, such as successful deployments and increasing usage, and are rewarded for continuing to invest in and scale out their technical capabilities.

The PCI score, available through Partner Center, is a single number tallied over seven indicators. A maximum of 100 points is possible. We have set a new date of April 1, 2021 for Partner Contribution Indicators (PCI) scoring for the Cloud Business Applications competency to take effect as part of the requirements. Along with that, we are postponing the implementation of the baseline snapshot for the Functional Consultant metric in the new Partner Contribution Indicators scoring from March 31 to October 1, 2020.A minimum of 60 points will be required to attain a Silver level, and a minimum of 80 points for a Gold level competency.

For information about PCI, pleaseGet the PCI overview and review thesecomprehensive resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Cloud Business Applications Competency

The Microsoft Partner Portal presents details about the present requirements needed for Enterprise Customer Engagement Option and Unified Operations Option.

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We regularly evaluate our program requirements, and we’re raising the bar to meet customer expectations and needs. The updated competency requirements will differentiate our best partners who offer Dynamics 365 solutions for customers.

No, you must have 15 different individuals who have passed the functional requirements in order to meet that part of the Cloud Business Applications Competency requirement.

No, your organization needs 15 unique individuals. Any five of the 15 individuals who passed the functional certifications should also pass the technical requirement for your organization to meet the Gold Cloud Business Applications requirement.

No, your organization must meet both the functional and technical requirements of the competency.

No, you may select either the Customer Engagement option OR the Unified option and then meet all the requirements within either option.

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The retiring exams will continue to count toward competency attainment.12 more months since retirement date. Check here the complete roadmap of retired exams.

The Common Data Service platform is now being leveraged for the recruit and onboarding functionality of the Talent application, and we want to provide the opportunity for those partners who focus in this area to also attain the Cloud Business Applications Competency. This path is more closely aligned to the requirements in the Customer Engagement option of the competency.

Enterprise Resource Planning Competency

The Cloud Business Applications Competency now recognizes Finance and Operations, and we encourage partners with the focus to meet the requirements of the Cloud Business Applications Competency.

There are no new certifications made available for NAV, GP, or SL to include in the competency. Dynamics 365 for Business Central certification is planned for release in calendar year 2019. It will be included as part of the competency attainment in the future.

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Cloud Customer Relationship Management Competency

If your account is in partner center you may renew the Cloud CRM Competency only during the month of October. If your renewal date falls after October 2019 we recommend that you begin preparing to attain Cloud Business Applications Competency in order to maintain competency status.

Related Resources

Business Applications Competency Area

Incentives co-op claims overview

Frequently Asked Question on OSA Claim

OSA Claim Model and Process

For information about PCI, please Get the PCI overview and review these comprehensive resources.

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FAQs

What are Microsoft key competencies? ›

Microsoft has 6 core competencies that they will assess you on: Adaptability, Collaboration, Customer Focus, Drive for Results, Influencing for Impact, and Judgement.

What is included in Microsoft business applications? ›

  • Excel.
  • Microsoft Teams.
  • Word.
  • OneDrive.
  • OneNote.
  • Outlook.
  • PowerPoint.
  • Project.

What are the business applications on Microsoft Windows? ›

  • Microsoft Cloud.
  • Microsoft Security.
  • Dynamics 365.
  • Microsoft 365.
  • Microsoft Power Platform.
  • Microsoft Teams.
  • Microsoft Industry.
  • Small Business.

How many Microsoft Competencies are there? ›

Achieving one of Microsoft's 18 “competencies” allows partners to show expertise in specialized business areas and attract new customers.

What are the 5 key competencies? ›

The CASEL 5 addresses five broad and interrelated areas of competence and highlights examples for each: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

What are your top 5 skills in Microsoft? ›

Top 5 Skills Employers Look For In New Hires
  • Communication Skills.
  • Problem-solving skills.
  • Leadership Skills.
  • Time management skills.
  • Microsoft Office proficiency.

What are the five Microsoft applications? ›

Apps and services
  • Microsoft Teams.
  • Word.
  • Excel.
  • PowerPoint.
  • Outlook.
  • OneNote.
  • OneDrive.

What are the 4 Microsoft Office applications? ›

Microsoft 365 customers with Word, Excel, OneNote, or PowerPoint can view, create, and edit files on the go.

What are the three commonly used application in Microsoft Office? ›

What's Included
  • Microsoft Word provides tools for creating and sharing professional word processing documents.
  • Microsoft Excel provides tools for creating spreadsheets, charts, and graphs.
  • Microsoft PowerPoint provides tools for creating presentations.

What is an example of a business application system? ›

Examples of business applications include applicant tracking systems, help desk applications, inventory management platforms. Business applications are different from internal tools, because they can be used by external stakeholders, where internal tools are specifically used by employees within an organization.

What is business application in MS word? ›

You can create any business document, including presentations, proposals, company reports, plans, and budgets. Word's design features are simple and easy to use so that you can build a library of key forms such as memos, agendas, invoices, and statements.

Which program is used for business applications? ›

Types of Accounting Software
  • QuickBooks.
  • Xero. Xero is also a complete and robust software suite for all your business accounting needs. ...
  • FreshBooks. FreshBooks accounting software is comprehensive and is designed primarily for small businesses in the service industry.
  • Wave. ...
  • WordPress. ...
  • Squarespace. ...
  • Shopify. ...
  • PayPal.

What are the 3 main categories of Microsoft qualifications? ›

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

How do I pass Microsoft certification exam? ›

Six Tips for Passing Microsoft Certification Exam (from Someone Who Hates Taking Tests)
  1. Step 1: Know what you need to know. Microsoft certification exams are usually hard, really hard. ...
  2. Step 2: Find good study material. ...
  3. Step 3: Take notes. ...
  4. Step 4: Practice. ...
  5. Step 5: Relax. ...
  6. Step 6: Manage your time when taking the exam.

Is the Microsoft certification test hard? ›

Some Microsoft exams are harder than others because they contain a greater number of or more complicated questions than others. I have noticed that older (and popular) certifications tend to be harder than new ones. Microsoft publishes study guides for many exams.

What are the 3 business competencies? ›

IDEA SUMMARY
  • Personal competencies: creativity, determination, integrity, tenacity, emotional balance and self-criticism.
  • Interpersonal competencies: communication, engagement/charisma, delegation, respect.
  • Business competencies: business vision, resource management, networking, negotiating skills.

What are the 7 common competencies? ›

What are the 7 core competencies?
  • Problem-solving skills.
  • Team Working skills.
  • Organisational skills.
  • Adaptability skills.
  • Decision-making skills.
  • Leadership skills.
  • Analytical thinking skills.
Jan 11, 2023

What are the 9 basic competencies? ›

world, particularly in contemporary careers and workplaces.
  • COMMUNICATION. ...
  • COLLABORATION AND TEAMWORK. ...
  • CRITICAL THINKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING. ...
  • LIFE-LONG LEARNING AND CAREER SKILLS. ...
  • LEARNING AND INNOVATION. ...
  • INFORMATION MANAGEMENT. ...
  • OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH. ...
  • ENVIRONMENTAL LITERACY.

How do you list Microsoft skills on a resume? ›

How to List Microsoft Office Skills on a Resume
  1. Put your MS Office skills in a resume skills section.
  2. List only those abilities you trully possess.
  3. Incorporate most advanced skills into your resume experience section.
  4. Use bullet points to describe your achievements.
Dec 13, 2022

How do you describe Microsoft skills on a resume? ›

How to list Microsoft Office skills on your resume
  1. Include your level of experience. Establish your level of experience with each Microsoft Office skill. ...
  2. Detail your method of use. ...
  3. Describe the tasks completed. ...
  4. List any certifications.
Jan 3, 2020

How do I list proficient in Microsoft? ›

Here is a template you can use for listing your own Microsoft Office skills:
  1. Proficient in [insert Microsoft skills]
  2. Advanced experience with [insert Microsoft skills]
  3. Basic knowledge of [insert Microsoft skills]
Feb 4, 2020

What are Microsoft applications called? ›

In addition to the initial trio, Word, Excel and PowerPoint, today, Microsoft Office also includes Access, Publisher, OneNote and Outlook – all of which seamlessly integrate with each other.

What common type of application software does the Microsoft? ›

Examples of Application Software

A collection of Microsoft software including MS Office, PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Outlook. Common Internet browsers like Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.

How many applications are in Microsoft Office? ›

Microsoft Office is a set of interrelated desktop applications, servers and services, collectively referred to as an office suite, for the Microsoft Windows and macOS operating systems.
...
Current Microsoft 365 Applications.
Product NameExcel
Release Date1987
PC AppYes
Mobile AppYes
Mac AppYes
26 more columns

Is Microsoft Office an application or an operating system? ›

Windows is the operating system; Microsoft Office is a program.

What is common application and MS Office? ›

Accenture Common Application and MS Office is newly added section to check the candidates basic knowledge about following Applications of MS Office: Microsoft Word. Microsoft Excel. Microsoft Access.

What is Microsoft apps and services? ›

Microsoft apps and services is a common authentication app which connects multiple apps and services across Microsoft with your email providers.

What is the most popular Microsoft Office program? ›

Microsoft's Most Popular Software Applications
RankingMicrosoft ApplicationUsage Count
1iexplore.EXE449588
2WINWORD.EXE26768
3OUTLOOK.EXE20784
4EXCEL.EXE13116
18 more rows
May 14, 2012

Is Excel a Microsoft Office application? ›

Excel is a part of the Microsoft Office and Office 365 suites and is compatible with other applications in the Office suite. The spreadsheet software is available for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS platforms.

What are the functions of business applications? ›

A business application is a software solution or a set of programs that provide business functionality. They're also used to enhance and monitor productivity throughout the organization. Business applications can be used externally, internally, or with other business apps.

What does a business application analyst do? ›

- Assists in the analysis of business processes and workflow for possible improvements. - Ensures data integrity by auditing and analyzing data. - Maintains functional master data and workflow where programming skills are not required. - Supports the development and maintenance of user training documentation.

What are the benefits of business application software? ›

Choosing the right business software can help you:
  • cut costs by automating routine tasks.
  • improve the efficiency of staff.
  • increase or measure office productivity.
  • streamline business operations and accounts.
  • replace paper processes.
  • communicate more effectively with customers, suppliers or partners.

What is the difference between business application and software? ›

Software is a set of instructions or data that operates the hardware. Application is a package to perform a specific task. Software is an all encompassing term for computer data. Application is a type of software that does a certain task.

How computer is used in business applications? ›

Communications: Companies use computers for both internal and external communications via email, messenger systems, conferencing and word processing. Research: Businesses can use computers to research industry trends, patents, trademarks, potential clients and competitors via search engines and proprietary databases.

What is a business application platform? ›

A business application platform is the integration of new and existing software and technologies to provide a comprehensive, company-specific, end-to-end business solution.

What do you learn in business computer applications class? ›

Business Computer Applications focuses on integrating computer technology with decision-making and problem solving skills. Areas of instruction include advanced applications in word processing, spreadsheets, presentation and database software that prepare students for industry standard certifications.

Which programming language is best for business applications? ›

6 Programming Languages Your Business Should Be Using
  1. Best Language for Research, Data Science, or Data Analytics: Python. ...
  2. Best Language for Web Applications: JavaScript. ...
  3. Best Language for Writing Google Programs: Kotlin. ...
  4. Best Language for Game Development: C++ ...
  5. Best Multiplatform Language: Java.

Which Microsoft Office certifications are most in demand? ›

Let us discuss each of them one by one moving ahead.
  • AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator. ...
  • AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals. ...
  • DP-203: Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure. ...
  • AZ-305: Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions. ...
  • AZ-204: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure. ...
  • AZ-400: Microsoft Azure DevOps Engineer.
Feb 2, 2023

What is the highest level Microsoft certification? ›

The Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is the highest certification awarded by Microsoft and is intended for IT professionals aiming to validate multifaceted technical abilities. On par with the MCSE in terms of rank is the MCSD, or Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer.

Who is the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional? ›

Arish Fatima, a four-year-old prodigy from Karachi, made history by becoming the youngest Microsoft professional. At the age of four, Arish Fatima has set a unique example by scoring 831 marks in the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam, the Government of Pakistan announced via Twitter on Friday.

How many times can you fail a Microsoft exam? ›

You may not take a given exam more than five (5) times within a 12-month period from the first attempt. If you failed the exam 5 times, you'll be eligible to retake it again 12 months from the date of your first attempt.

Can I get a job with Microsoft certification? ›

Jobs like administrative assistant, office manager, data analyst, and desktop publisher use Microsoft Office in almost everything they do. Having the certification can capture the eye of employers to your knowledge of Microsoft Office and commitment to learning.

Is being Microsoft Certified worth it? ›

That's what makes Microsoft Certification so valuable. It demonstrates that you're proficient in the specific, real-world skills associated with recognized industry roles. It verifies that you know how to apply technical knowledge to solve today's business challenges.

How long does Microsoft certification take? ›

Most Microsoft Certification exams typically contain between 40-60 questions; however, the number can vary depending on the exam.
...
Exam duration.
Exam typeExam duration*Seat duration*
Associate and expert role-based exams without labs**100 minutes120 minutes
3 more rows
Jan 5, 2023

How many attempts are required for Microsoft certification exams? ›

1. If a candidate does not achieve a passing score on an exam the first time, the candidate must wait at least 24 hours before retaking the exam. 2. If a candidate does not achieve a passing score the second time, the candidate must wait at least 14 days before retaking the exam a third time.

How long should you study for Microsoft certification? ›

Give yourself a time budget, an estimate on how much time you think you will need to be exam ready. I roughly estimated I'd need at least 30 hours of study minimum, with really 40 to 50 hours all together to be more confident. Keep a rough estimate on how much study time you complete as you go along.

What are gold level Microsoft competencies? ›

We hold Microsoft Gold competencies in 4 areas including: Communications, Data Platform, Project and Portfolio Management, and Cloud Productivity. Additionally, we hold Microsoft Silver competencies in; Small and Midmarket Cloud Solutions, Cloud Platform, and Collaboration and Content.

What do you think the top 3 qualities needed to work at Microsoft are? ›

Whilst we all need to invest in technological trainings, developing soft skills are increasingly critical in helping us navigate the jobs of tomorrow.
  • Analytical thinking. ...
  • Adaptability and continuous learning. ...
  • Digital skills.
Sep 27, 2019

What do you mean by key competencies? ›

Key competences are those which all individuals need for personal fulfilment, active citizenship, social cohesion and employability through lifelong learning in a knowledge society.

What are the three 3 main components applications of Microsoft Office? ›

Office on the web is a free lightweight web version of Microsoft Office and primarily includes three web applications: Word, Excel and PowerPoint. The offering also includes Outlook.com, OneNote and OneDrive which are accessible through a unified app switcher.

What are the six core in MS office? ›

In addition to the initial trio, Word, Excel and PowerPoint, today, Microsoft Office also includes Access, Publisher, OneNote and Outlook – all of which seamlessly integrate with each other.

Does Microsoft negotiate level? ›

Every component of compensation at Microsoft is negotiable at the Partner, CVP and EVP level except for the annual bonus percentage, but these negotiations can become very complex.

How many Microsoft levels are there? ›

For technical and management track, the job level start from 57 and continues till 80. This means there are 24 distinct job levels at Microsoft. Levels 57 and 58 are reserved for non-permanent employees and Levels 59 and 60 are reserved for New Graduates.

What are Microsoft job levels? ›

An employee is hired onto a certain level, and can be promoted to a new level. Microsoft employees are situated on a scale from level 59 to 80, while Amazon employees are ranked L4-L10, and Facebook employees receive a status that is on a scale from E3 to E9.

What skills does Microsoft look for in candidates? ›

We look for a strong desire to learn, intelligence, a passion for technology, a willingness to work hard, rock-solid skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a desire to be the best. Be prepared to speak about how you solved a job-specific issue, design question, or problem-solving puzzle.

What technical skills are required for Microsoft? ›

The top technical skills for the modern IT Pro
  • Networking. Whether it's physical cabling and switches, or cloud networking configurations, topics like TCP/IP addressing are universal. ...
  • Windows Server. ...
  • Security. ...
  • Identity. ...
  • Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
Apr 5, 2022

Why should Microsoft hire you? ›

Don't give a generic answer such as “Microsoft is a top-tier company, and I want to work here.” Focus on making the answer memorable by highlighting specific reasons that attract you to the company. This could be your admiration for certain products or the work culture at Microsoft or even the CEO's leadership style.

What are the 4 basic competencies? ›

Here is an in-depth look at the four stages of competence and examples of what each might look like in the workplace.
  • Unconscious incompetence.
  • Conscious incompetence.
  • Conscious competence.
  • Unconscious competence.
Dec 12, 2019

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