Microsoft EA and MPSA Online Services are moving to standardised pricing. This change could impact costs and make CSP a better option for flexibility and value.
Table of Contents
VENDOR RELATIONSHIPS
FROM THE DESK OF THE MD
From Complexity to Clarity – Why Microsoft Fabric Matters Now
Discover why Microsoft Fabric is central to Microsoft’s Data & AI strategy, and how Ascent Technology helps organisations unify data, simplify operations, and achieve AI-driven success. Key Takeways Microsoft Fabric unifies data on a single platform, eliminating silos...
Building the Microsoft Cloud Foundation for AI Success
Discover how Ascent Technology’s Modernise–Optimise–Protect framework, powered by Microsoft Fabric, OneLake, and Copilot, builds secure, AI-ready platforms that unlock business value. Key Takeways AI success starts with a modern, unified foundation – Microsoft Fabric...
Transitioning from Microsoft EA to CSP
Explore why Microsoft is moving Enterprise Agreement (EA) clients to the Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) model, and how Ascent Technology ensures a smooth, strategic transition. Key Takeaways Microsoft is shifting Enterprise Agreement (EA) customers toward the...
CAMPAIGNS
Azure by Credit Card vs CSP: Why Finance & IT Prefer CSP
Still paying Microsoft for Azure by credit card? Discover why finance and IT leaders prefer the CSP model for predictable billing, built-in partner support, cost optimisation, and long-term value. Key Takeways Credit card billing creates risk - Failed or expired...
Prepare for SQL Server 2014 End of Support
On July 9, 2024, support for SQL Server 2014 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and innovation....
Prepare for SQL Server 2012 End of Support
On July 12, 2022, support for SQL Server 2012 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and innovation....
NEWSFLASHES
Microsoft Tiered EA/MPSA Pricing Ends – Explore the CSP Advantage
Standardised pricing will replace Microsoft’s long-standing tiered discount model - prompting many organisations to review the CSP programme for its cost savings, licensing flexibility, and simplified management. Microsoft Tiered EA/MPSA Pricing Ends Microsoft will...
Ascent Technology’s clients benefit from Data Platform Modernisation
Facing platform ‘end of life’ issues together with increasing pressures to digitise processes, increase profitability and innovate on product and service, organisations are finding Data Platform Modernisation projects can deliver significant value by enabling IT cost...
CLIENT CASE STUDIES
DB Administration, Security and Compliance for First Distribution
First Distribution’s Database Administration, Security and Compliance needs lead it to trusted advisor, Ascent Technology. For any large organisation, Database Administration (DBA) is a vital part of maintaining their Data Platform Operations effectively. As it has...
Ascent Technology helps Bidfood SA migrate to Microsoft Azure
When Bidfood SA chose to modernise and migrate its data platform to Microsoft Azure, it turned to Ascent Technology for help. In a world that is digitally transforming, it is more vital than ever to an organisation’s success to utilise the latest platforms to drive...
Ascent Technology helps migrate Phumelela Gaming to Azure
A Windows Server and SQL Server consolidation, optimisation and migration to Microsoft Azure enables the company to reduce costs, modernise its data platform and boost its innovation capabilities. As an operator running two distinct betting businesses, Phumelela...
AWARDS AND ACCOLADES
Microsoft Data and Analytics Partner of the Year Finalist
Ascent Technology continues its strong showing in the Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, as a finalist in the Data and Analytics Partner of the Year award. Finalist Data and Analytics Partner of the Year "It is always gratifying to be recognised by Microsoft as one...
Advanced Azure Data Platform Workload online Workshops
02 Sep 2020
Microsoft and Ascent Technology invite you to a deep-dive, interactive exploration of how to migrate apps & databases to Azure.
We are hosting one-day online workshops covering everything from whiteboarding migration strategies to hands-on experiences with data migration tools, and we’d like you to be a part of it!
In these workshops, professionals in data platform and technical decision-making roles will better understand:
- The reasoning & value of migrating apps & databases to Azure
- How to whiteboard a data migration strategy
- Tools & methods available to help you migrate your data
Workshop details:
| Date | Time | |
| Workshop 1 | 23 Sept 2020 – AM | 09:00 – 12:30 |
| Workshop 2 | 29 Sept 2020 – AM | 09:00 – 12:30 |
| Workshop 3 | 29 Sept 2020 – PM | 13:00 – 16:30 |
| Workshop 4 | 30 Sept 2020 – AM | 09:00 – 12:30 |
| Workshop 5 | 30 Sept 2020 – PM | 13:00 – 16:30 |
| Venue: | These workshops will be delivered via Microsoft Teams Meetings, If you don’t own Microsoft Teams and need to download a trial, please Click Here |
Agenda:
| Sessions | Duration | Level |
| 1: Data Migration: Value & Planning | ||
| Data Migration overview, case studies, migration triggers, customer timelines, TCO value | 30 min | 100 |
| Using Data Migration tools & frameworks to assess/build business case for cloud | 30 min | 200 |
| Whiteboarding exercise (assessing environment, destination considerations, etc.) | 30 min | 200 |
| 2: Data Migration: Practical Demonstration | ||
| Introducing Lab process & goals for the afternoon | 15 min | 300 |
| Azure SQL Database Managed Instance | 45 min | 300 |
| Next steps & how to get started | 15 min | 300 |
How do I engage with Ascent?
We encourage you to Contact Us, and we will assist you on your journey to permanently remove your Database Security and Compliance challenges with our DB Shield Service.