Microsoft today outlined its plan for Master VARs that will be created as an umbrella for smaller resellers that might otherwise be driven from the business by new requirements. While 10 organizations are reportedly interested in achieving Master VAR status, none are approved. Microsoft stated only that an announcement would be made soon.

Microsoft plans to release the details of its Master VAR program next week. The vendor has confirmed the announcement is being made to the channel on September 27, but has officially released no other information about the plan. The Master VAR plan is aimed at providing a way to shelter smaller resellers that might otherwise be driven from the field by the new Microsoft reseller program that raises requirements and squeezes margins for the smaller fry.  Read more...

Kalibur Solutions has been named as the top reseller of Open Systems software products for the year ended Aug. 31, 2011. The company was recognized this month at the company’s Partners in Profit Conference. Kalibur, based in Brampton, Ontario, is owned by founder Zoltan Szakal. According to Open Systems VP Paul Lundquist, this was the first time a Canadian reseller has won the vendor's top award. Kalibur sells both Traverse and Open Systems Accounting Software.