Microsoft enterprise customers now have the option to change their channel partner themselves through the Microsoft 365 admin center or the Azure portal. This process, known as Customer-Initiated Change of Channel Partner (COCP), gives organizations more control and flexibility in managing their Microsoft licenses and contracts. While previously partners had to initiate the change, customers can now initiate a partner change independently and follow the process directly.
How does the COCP functionality work?
An authorized admin goes to the Volume Licensing section of the portal and selects "Change partner" for the desired contract or license ID. For a successful request, the new partner's PCN, contact email address, and reason for the change must be entered. Without a valid PCN, the request cannot be submitted.
Once the application is submitted, the new partner receives a notification in Volume Licensing Central and can accept or reject the application. After acceptance, Microsoft typically processes the partner switch within 24 to 48 hours, after which the new partner becomes active after a standard 90-day grace period, unless a different effective date has been agreed upon.
Benefits for customers and partners
For customers, this means a faster and easier way to switch partners, greater control over service quality and contract terms, and the ability to strategically adapt in the event of dissatisfaction or changing needs. For partners, it's important that customers know their PCN and contact details, and that authorized users have access to VL Central to accept requests in a timely manner. Good preparation prevents errors or delays with COCP requests.
An additional reason to go through a careful selection process
Many Licensing Solution Providers (LSPs) now charge fees for processing license orders (fulfillment). While this was often offered free of charge in the past, organizations are now realizing that these costs can be substantial. This reinforces the importance of a thorough selection process: by clearly defining your needs and selection criteria upfront, you can avoid unexpected costs and choose a partner that optimally suits your organization in terms of both service and cost structure. Independent advice helps you make an objective comparison and prevents an LSP's commercial interests from influencing your choice.
Why a careful selection process is essential
While the self-service COCP process simplifies partner switching, choosing the right vendor remains a strategic decision. A selection process for selecting a Microsoft partner for delivery helps organizations understand which partner best suits their needs, contract terms, and cost structure.
It is best to obtain advice from an independent party such as BeSharp Experts. We help organizations through the service Supplier selection By first assessing specific needs and defining selection criteria. We then send requests for proposals to suitable suppliers, analyzing business information, pricing, contract terms, and Microsoft expertise. The results are discussed in a workshop and documented in a comprehensive advisory report with concrete recommendations. This allows you to make a well-informed choice and select a partner that optimally suits your organization, without the commercial interests of an LSP influencing your decision.
Take control of your partner choice
With the COCP functionality, your organization now has control over switching Microsoft partners. BeSharp Experts ensures this choice is strategic, transparent, and optimally substantiated. This prevents unwanted costs and allows you to choose a supplier that fully meets your needs.
Want to be sure your next Microsoft partner is the perfect fit for your organization? Schedule a no-obligation consultation about our service Supplier selection and discover which supplier best suits your needs.