Microsoft has launched a new WebsiteSpark Program, designed to create a partner network and help enable business growth for professional web development and design companies.
In addition, it has also released Web Platform Installer 2.0 and the Windows Web Application Gallery 2.0. As the latest initiative in the Spark family of programs, which includes BizSpark and DreamSpark, it is building upon a legacy of working with key communities and providing the additional support, tools and resources needed to help them thrive, the company said.
According to Microsoft, the new program provides web professionals with Microsoft software, together with related tools, training and support, to help their businesses succeed. It also helps them to drive new business opportunities by connecting web professionals and hosters with an ecosystem of customers, partners and other professionals with complementary technologies.
Microsoft said, companies that sign up with the new program can have access to its web design and development tools, including three licenses of Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 Professional Edition, two licenses of Microsoft Expression Web 3 and one license of Microsoft Expression Studio 3. In additon, they will also get four processor licenses for production usage to Windows Web Server 2008 or R2 (when available) and four processor licenses for production usage to Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Web Edition and a third-party premium web site control panel (DotNetPanel).
In addition to software, training and support, the program will extend the reach of participating companies by featuring their offerings in a WebsiteSpark marketplace, supported by Microsoft marketing vehicles, the company said.
The company said that the new Web Platform Installer 2.0 provides developers with a simplified installation of its products and technologies and includes new additions such as IIS Media Services and a Windows Azure software development kit (SDK). It also provides developers access to free, open-code, ready-to-install web applications to help build their web sites and applications.
Bob Muglia, president of server and tools business division at Microsoft, said: “WebsiteSpark makes Microsoft’s web development tools and support more accessible to developers and designers at small companies as they create inventive applications for the web. Our third Spark program, WebsiteSpark furthers our commitment to ignite innovation among key communities and individuals.”
