Azure Updates: Guided learning plans; Pricing resources; Open AI Service

Senior director of product marketing Evelyn Padrino looked into the ways that companies can improve their cloud performance with a guided learning plan. Microsoft has introduced Plans on Microsoft Learn, a series of customized learning journeys that customers can use to focus training on specific technical areas. Plans include knowledge checks, hands-on exercises, and various practice skills modules.

An example of one Plan is the Improve Reliability, Security, and Performance on Azure plan. Someone training with this Plan would first encounter cloud concepts such as subscription management, then core Azure services like VMs, storage, databases, and networking with a focus on network optimization. Subsequently, learners gain exposure to advanced cost optimization with reservation model pricing, Azure Hybrid Benefit, and Azure Consumption Commitment. Lastly, learners have a chance to gain validation with the Skilling Plan, which aligns with certifications like AZ-305.

Senior product marketing manager Kyle Ikeda shared details about pricing resources that customers can take advantage of. Ikeda reminded customers that they can start out using Azure for free, accessing over 25 services for 12 months with a $200 credit in the first 30 days.