Remembering Bob Scott and the VAR Stars
For those of us who have been around the Microsoft Dynamics community for a while, the name Bob Scott probably brings back some memories.
Bob was an industry analyst and one of the most recognized voices in the ERP channel. He had a reputation for being direct, independent, and not particularly concerned about what other people thought of him. He wasn't always warm and fuzzy, but he was respected because he knew the industry and people trusted his judgment.
For many years, Bob published the VAR Stars list, which recognized outstanding ERP partners across the channel. Being included on that list meant something. Partners were proud to be selected, and every year companies submitted information in hopes of making the cut.
A Personal Milestone in the Dynamics Community
I remember when I was first starting out in the Dynamics community and attending industry events as part of the press and media. At the time, Bob was one of the people I looked up to. One moment that has stayed with me all these years was when Bob called me to ask if I knew about a piece of Microsoft channel news that he had not yet heard.
To anyone else, that might not sound like much. To me, it was a milestone. Here was someone whose work I respected asking me for information. It was one of those moments when I realized I had become a real part of this community.
I sure do wish I had a photo of Bob and I together. But I think that was before camera’s were invented (at least ones we carried in our pockets at all times).
Why We Created Dynamics Partner Stars
That memory came back to me recently as I thought about how much the Microsoft Dynamics ecosystem has evolved over the years.
Today there are thousands of Dynamics partners helping customers transform their businesses. Some are large organizations. Some are small. Some focus on Business Central, others on Finance and Supply Chain, Sales, Customer Service, Power Platform, or industry-specific solutions. What they all have in common is that they are helping customers succeed while contributing to a community that has always been stronger because people are willing to share their knowledge and experience.
Recognition Should Be About More Than Revenue
For years I have considered creating a recognition program for Dynamics VAR partners, but I wanted to do it the right way.
I didn't want a list based solely on revenue. Revenue tells part of the story, but it doesn't tell you who is making the biggest impact on customers. I didn't want a popularity contest either.
Instead, I wanted a program that recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in customer success, innovation, expertise, industry leadership, and contributions to the Microsoft Dynamics community.
Introducing the Dynamics Partner Stars Program
That's why I am excited to introduce the Dynamics Partner Stars program.
Partner Stars Applications and nominations are now open.
Each year, ERP Software Blog will recognize a select group of Microsoft Dynamics implementation partners that stand out for the impact they are making on their customers and on the broader Dynamics ecosystem.
Companies may nominate themselves or be nominated by customers, Microsoft employees, industry peers, team members, or other members of the community.
Selections will be based on a holistic review of each organization, including customer success stories, community contributions, industry expertise, significant achievements, and overall impact.
An Independent and Transparent Selection Process
One thing that is very important to me is maintaining the independence of this program.
Selection as a Dynamics Partner Star will be based solely on the evaluation criteria and review process. Participation in ERP Software Blog programs, advertising, sponsorships, or paid promotional opportunities will not influence selection.
Our goal is simple: to recognize organizations that are making a meaningful difference in the Microsoft Dynamics community.
I look forward to reviewing the nominations and applications and celebrating the partners that continue to raise the bar for all of us.
Partner Stars Applications and nominations are now open.
