The challenge
In January 2009, Microsoft UK launched its new partner community website to provide a channel for partner-to-partner connection, collaboration and information exchange. Having gained user feedback on its previous portal, Microsoft wanted to create a community for its UK-based channel partners to enable them to network with each other and reduce email-based communications.
The approach
To create this platform and ultimately increase adoption, Microsoft worked with digital agency Metia and Telligent to develop the community. The new community site allows partners to connect with ease; create and join groups; participate in discussion forums and wikis; post and respond to blogs; as well as upload files for sharing.
The results
Following a viral campaign to generate engagement, it now has more than 1250 active members and is growing by 100 partners each week, which will enable it to achieve target two months ahead of schedule. “Work styles are fast-evolving towards a collaborative approach,” said Clare Barclay, director of partner marketing, Microsoft UK. “With Metia’s help we’ve built a community that aims to offer something relevant for partners across the board, so we’re delighted with such strong initial engagement rates.”
