3coast, a Houston-based managed IT support and technology staffing firm, has recently achieved Microsoft Gold Certified Partner status by reaching the highest level of competence and expertise with Microsoft technologies. This certification allows 3coast access to valuable resources and support that will help them stand out in the marketplace.
“Advancing to the Gold level of Microsoft Certified Partners, demonstrates 3coast’s level of proficiency that differentiates us from competitors. Customers recognize our commitment to use the best technology to create the innovative software they require for achieving their business goals,” said George Black, president and CEO of 3coast.
Gold Certified Partners are required to attain at least one competency. These competencies are demonstrated through two or more of the following:
•Having Microsoft Certified Professionals on staff
•Obtaining customer references
•Testing products
•Maintaining sales activity
3coast attained specialty competencies in Data Management Solutions, Mobility Solutions, and the Server Platform. Microsoft Certified Professionals associated with 3coast hold certifications in the following areas:
•Microsoft Certified Network Product Specialist
•Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
•Microsoft Certified Database Administrator
•Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator
•Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist
•Microsoft Certified Professional in Systems Integration
3coast’s certification as a Microsoft Gold Partner increases credibility and adds value to the company. Gold Certified Partners also enjoy the cost savings of several thousands of dollars on licensing fees for software their organizations use on a daily basis (e.g. Operating Systems, Microsoft Office Suite, etc.). Microsoft offers abundant resources and support to 3coast and all other Gold Level Partners, including training software, local classes, online courses, Virtual labs, and independent study resources.
Microsoft offers the Customer Satisfaction Index, an online survey tool, so partners can ensure that their customers’ requirements truly are being met. The Customer Satisfaction Index allows certified partners to compare their perception of their services to how their customers actually received them by rating different Key Performance Indicators.
3coast rated themselves a 186 in the Net Satisfaction (NSAT) KPI, and their customers similarly rated them a 168. A score greater than 100 means that more of 3coast’s customers are satisfied than dissatisfied with the service they have received. The higher the NSAT, the more satisfied the customer base.
The Customer Satisfaction Index reveals the strengths and weaknesses of a partner, allowing them to improve their services and retain existing customers. 3coast’s positive survey results confirm their performance perceptions and reinforce their business decisions. By participating in the Customer Satisfaction Index, 3coast builds customer loyalty, strengthens business relationships, and is rewarded for their impact in the marketplace.
3coast’s dedication to providing superior technology services is reflected in their recent certification as a Microsoft Gold Partner. While the competition in the marketplace is fierce, this certification distinguishes 3coast as one of the best in its class.
“We look forward to expanding our skills, through the resources available to us as Microsoft Gold Certified Partners, so that we may deliver even greater value to our customers,” said Stephen Sweeney, chief operating officer at 3coast.