Operate more efficiently, reduce complexity, improve EBIDTA, and much more with the purpose-built platform for MSPs.
Protect and defend what matters most to your clients and stakeholders with ConnectWise's best-in-class cybersecurity and BCDR solutions.
Leverage generative AI and RPA workflows to simplify and streamline the most time-consuming parts of IT.
Join fellow IT pros at ConnectWise industry & customer events!
Check out our online learning platform, designed to help IT service providers get the most out of ConnectWise products and services.
Search our resource center for the latest MSP ebooks, white papers, infographics, webinars and more!
Join hundreds of thousands of IT professionals benefiting from and contributing to a legacy of industry leadership when you become a part of the ConnectWise community.
Join hundreds of thousands of IT professionals benefiting from and contributing to a legacy of industry leadership when you become a part of the ConnectWise community.
You have probably noticed that Q1 is when renewal conversations ramp up. That’s no coincidence. Microsoft’s New Commerce Experience (NCE) model, introduced in 2022, shifted how and when customers renew Microsoft 365 contracts. For many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), those contracts are now synced to Q1.
This alignment creates a predictable window for renewal activity—but it’s about more than just contract updates. Microsoft uses Q1 as a strategic launchpad for pricing changes, product updates, and new features, making it the perfect time for you to deepen customer relationships and drive additional value.
The NCE model redefined the cadence of Microsoft 365 contracts, locking many SMBs into agreements aligned with its launch. Fast-forward to today, and Q1 has become the busiest renewal season for partners.
Looking ahead, the renewal surge is only growing. Microsoft predicts that in 2025, 45% of CSP seat renewals will happen between January and March. However, renewals aren’t the only consideration. Microsoft strategically uses Q1 to launch updates and initiatives that create opportunities for you to bring added value to your customers.
Key changes coming in 2025 include:
These updates align perfectly with renewal conversations, allowing you to educate your customers and showcase the benefits of adopting new tools and strategies. Follow along as we break down what’s new and what it means for you as an MSP.
Staying ahead of Microsoft’s renewal updates is essential for MSPs who want to ensure their customers’ success. With recent changes in pricing, licensing, product lifecycles, and more rolling out, understanding these shifts will help you drive smarter conversations and deliver greater value to your customers.
Let’s start with the pricing and licensing changes that could impact how you position and package services to your customers:
Keeping customers on supported platforms is crucial. Here are two lifecycle changes to watch:
Microsoft is always innovating, and the latest updates include:
Staying up to date on these updates ensures that you are ready to adapt, optimize your offerings, and strengthen your competitive edge
To make the most of Q1, engaging customers early and proactively is essential. Here’s how you can stay ahead:
Failing to act can leave customers feeling undervalued and vulnerable to competing offers.
With so much shifting, this is the perfect time to focus on renewals to ensure your customers are ready for what’s next. Don’t let complacency lead to customer disengagement or open the door to competitors. With our Renewal Guide, you’ll stay ahead and highlight key priorities, such as data protection, to win customer trust and loyalty.