Software giant Microsoft provides a needed shot in the arm for web development professionals by launching a new program that aims to boost web development business.

The program aims to provide free software and technical support for web developers so they can jumpstart their business or their individual practices. The WebsiteSpark program can also benefit web development companies that have less than 10 employees.

Microsoft calls the new program WebsiteSpark. It was unveiled in Amsterdam during the PICNIC conference. WebsiteSpark follows the model of similar programs like BizSpark, designed for start up businesses, and DreamSpark which was designed for students.

BizSpark provided free software and technical support for new companies and start-ups. The DreamSpark program on the other hand also provided the same level services similar to BizSpark. But this special Microsoft enablement program specifically targeted the increasingly tech savvy student sector.

According to Microsoft, the WebsiteSpark was conceptualized in order to support the widening and specific needs of web professionals. Incidentally, the program will pave the way for companies and individual developers to use the technologies and software of Microsoft. Right now, web developers and web development companies are primarily using the software suite and development products of Microsoft competitors.

Providing Licensed Software

Companies wishing to take advantage of the WebsiteSpark program can easily apply online. Those participating in the program can get licensed Visual Studio 2008 Pro Edition, Expression Web 3, and Expression Studio 3.

Qualified companies will also be given licences for Windows Web Server 2008 and Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Web Edition.

Technical Support Provision

Aside from licensed software, companies or web developers can enjoy dedicated technical support from Microsoft. Each company will be given support for two technical incidents. Qualified participants will also enjoy access to the community support program of Microsoft partner. Support from technical managed newsgroups is unlimited through the Microsoft Development Network.

Real Benefits of Microsoft Enablement Program

Companies who participated in the BizSpark program got excellent technical support from Microsoft. A case in point is the experience of ZocDoc. This is a web based company providing booking services for patients wishing to schedule for a doctor’s appointment.

According to ZocDoc, the free software and the technical support from the BizSpark program really provided a boost for its operation. Basically, companies who participated in Microsoft program were able to optimize their businesses and operations using Microsoft technologies.

Most importantly, those who are enjoying the benefits of BizSpark will not worry anymore about expensive business software and technical assistance. That is why companies enjoyed great savings while improving their bottom line.

A New Resource from Microsoft

The introduction of the WebsiteSpark program was not the only the significant announcement made by Microsoft. The software company also released a new updated version of its Web Platform Installer software.

The update to the software includes simplified installations processes for the Web development software of Microsoft. The upgraded was designed specifically to simplify the development of web building applications. With the latest upgrade, developers will have an easier time accomplishing their projects.

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