SQL 2008 Migration and Certification Resources

We're quickly approaching the global launch of SQL Server 2008 and ISVs are asking for help with SQL migration and certification. Fortunately there are several resources available.

If you're just getting started and need help moving between 2005 and 2008 (or even 2003 and 2008) you have several options. Many of our ISVs already have a relationship with the Microsoft Partner Advantage team and that team is very well equipped to assist in these types of migrations. If you're not familiar with MSPA you can learn about them here. MSPA is contract-based support well suited to larger ISVs or ISVs working on multiple projects.

ISVs that don't have a MSPA contact can leverage Advisory Services. Advisory Services are similar to what's available through MSPA but instead of a contract they are charged out at an hourly rate. Both services can assist with things like product migration, code review and new product development.

Gold Certified ISVs have 20 free hours available to them with Technical Service Coordinators, who are also equipped to help with SQL migration and other support instances. If you are a Gold Certified ISV you can follow this link to log in and get started. If that link does not work for you, log into the Partner Program website, choose Support and Security then Technical Support then Phone Based Support then Technical Service Coordinators.

Finally, ISVs that would like to certify their applications against SQL server can contact Veritest (now Lionbridge). Unfortunately as of 12/12/2007 the certification test is still only available for SQL Server 2005, but the SQL Certification page will give you an idea what the certification process entails. SQL Server 2008 certification should be available closer to the RTM date in Q2 CY08.

And as always, don't hesitate to reach out to your Microsoft evangelist for additional information.