MS TechNet gets UK launch

Microsoft is gearing up for the UK launch of TechNet, its attempt to skill up the estimated 60,000 freelance IT consultants in the UK. The TechNet programme, which launched this week in the US and on September 8th in the UK, is a website offering training and new product information to consultants. The launch of TechNet is a tacit admission by Microsoft that it has not provided enough easily accessible information to the mass of self-employed freelance IT consultants that advise customers on buying decisions. Too often, Microsoft has claimed, the consultants do not have up-to-date product information with which to advise clients. "The IT community needs more from us" said Microsoft president Steve Ballmer. "With increasing numbers of IT professionals using our technology to build mission-critical applications we have to be easily accessible and create greater efficiencies to provide the information and support they need." Users pay a one-time cost to register, according to Microsoft, and get monthly CDs with development updates, bug fixes and service packs. Other parts of TechNet are free, the company said. Those in the UK interested can register on TechNet ®