Ascend (Beta 1 Releases)

  • Article

Ascend is a structured early adoption program offered to managed ISVs who wish to build solutions on the Microsoft platform. Ascend begins with the Beta 1 release and is limited to 300 managed ISVs and is available at 12-15 locations worldwide. The program is supported and managed by Redmond HQ in terms of content development, worldwide training delivery, budget and infrastructure.

The essential program offerings are:

  • Four to five days of deep technical training for ISV developers
  • Mandatory application compatibility labs
  • Online technical support services for pre-release technology

The goal of Ascend is to facilitate the completion of deployable applications by RTM+90 days. All ISVs enrolled in the Ascend program are required to send one representative to training and an application compatibility lab as a follow up to the training. To register for the program, an ISV must first be invited, complete a profile describing their project, and select the training/lab locations they wish to attend. It is recommended that the ISV send their most qualified developer to the training since the ISV can send only one person to the class. ISVs are required to regularly update the status of their project in throughout the Ascend program using an online tool.

Program benefits to ISV partners include:

  • Developer Training. Each Ascend Rhythm team contracts with industry leading subject matter experts, to develop and deliver detailed instructor-led training at selected locations worldwide.
  • Advanced hands-on application compatibility labs, events, and testing tools and methods. Ascend Rhythm teams host a variety of application compatibility labs and events to support your development work. Our goal is to ensure your applications work correctly on the Microsoft platform leveraging the extensive depth of technologies available from Microsoft.
  • Increase visibility and reduce time to market. As early adopters, Ascend participants will be among the first partners recognized for building and deploying applications.
  • Lower development cost. Learn how to build the best and most stable applications in less time using Microsoft’s latest tools and technologies
  • Launch marketing opportunities. A variety of launch marketing options will be made available to ISVs who successfully complete the program

Availability by invitation only; contact your Microsoft account manager about upcoming opportunities.