With your annual Microsoft Action Pack Subscription, you’ll receive one Welcome Kit and three Quarterly Update Kits. Each kit contains new software releases, as well as updated sales and marketing materials designed to help you stay competitive, meet your sales goals, and grow your business. Subscriptions are available only to registered members of the Microsoft Partner Program. Enroll today in the Microsoft Partner Program for exclusive system builder resources!

A new online training and assessment requirement went into effect November 30, 2007. Partners are required to take one specific Microsoft online course from the required Partner Learning Center course list and then pass its associated assessment with a minimum score of 70 percent. To continue receiving your Microsoft Action Pack Subscription, you will be required to pass an assessment every two years.

The timeline for this requirement is as follows:

• New subscribers—In effect beginning November 30, 2007
• Renewing subscribers—Begins March 1, 2008

If you’re enrolled in the Microsoft Empower for ISVs program:
This program is intended for software developers creating their first Microsoft platform-based solution, and you cannot also subscribe to the Microsoft Action Pack. The Microsoft Action Pack is intended for IT professionals and includes internal-use licenses for many of the latest Microsoft software offerings. If you would prefer to subscribe to the Action Pack, you must first cancel your Empower program subscription (without refund).

Benefits Video: "Sam the System Builder"
View an animated video which tells the story of a fictional system builder named Sam and illustrates the benefits of purchasing a Microsoft Action Pack subscription through the Microsoft Partner Program. Meet Sam now.

1. Obtain in-depth product knowledge. Get equipped to effectively promote, install, and build solutions on the Microsoft platform. Your organization will receive internal-use licenses for many of the latest versions of Microsoft software, as well as service packs and updates.
2. Access timely and relevant sales materials. Receive resources to support your sales and marketing efforts.
3. Access self-paced technical and sales training courses. Sharpen your skills to better serve your customers.

Microsoft Action Pack Subscription Managed Newsgroup
Take full advantage of your Microsoft Action Pack Subscription by participating in the Microsoft Action Pack Subscription Managed Newsgroup. Discuss with other subscribers how they use the software releases and sales and marketing materials to their advantage.

• Access to the private OEM Partner Center Web site
• Hands-on demos
• Technical resources
• Sales and technical training
• Internal-use licenses
• Marketing materials
• Technical support