Microsoft cancels Dynamics ERP SMB exam requirements, sparking partner speculation

Microsoft announced last week that it is eliminating several certification exams for Dynamics GP, NAV, and SL that partners had been required to pass for certifications. The move, which partners have described as a sudden and unexpected change, has generated a range of responses, from optimism to wariness to deep suspicion.

Microsoft made a brief announcement on August 13 on PartnerSource. Here's an excerpt:

"Effective August 13, 2014, Microsoft is announcing the elimination of certification/exam requirements for Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics NAV, Microsoft Dynamics SL, Microsoft Dynamics RMS and Microsoft Dynamics C5.  This includes pre-sales and sales assessments as well as implementation methodology and technical certifications and covers both SPA and MPN."

Dynamics AX and CRM are not impacted, Microsoft clarified. And one partner told us they found out that some exams related to Gold or Silver status for Dynamics NAV remained in place (and they recommended partners verify the updated requirements for themselves).

Microsoft's position

The Microsoft Dynamics Danmark Partner blog has the most specific explanation of what is behind the move. The author identifies four reasons why the change was being made.

The first reason is that partners need to shift their focus to the cloud, meaning being "on Azure" and "in Office 365". Second, that new priority means that Microsoft "[wants] to give partners the flexibility to use their readiness time and money on the investments in those areas most impactful to their individual businesses" like Office 365, ISV solutions, or other Microsoft training. Third, Microsoft decided to "redirect money and time previously spent on the ...