Microsoft backs up Server 08 launch with Australian training

Following its Microsoft Server 2008 launch last week, Microsoft Australia has unveiled a series of training sessions aimed at skilling up wannabe Server 08 experts.

Microsoft released the latest version of its Windows operating system for servers last week, marking its first major challenge against VMware, the leader in virtualisation.

Speaking at the Australian unveiling, Martin Gregory, director Server and Tools, Microsoft Australia said that the launch represented the biggest outreach exercise to IT professionals and developers in Microsoft’s history. Now the software giant is backing up its launch with two separate training initiatives aimed at both novices and experts.

The first, dubbed 'Fast Track Fridays' will be run by a host of Microsoft partners including, IT Training & Solutions, excom, Advanced Training, Dimension Data Learning Solutions, Hands On Computer Training International, ITTS, New Horizons Learning Centres and Forsythes. They will focus on skilling Server 08 neophytes with the basics of the new application.

Specific dates, pricing and session topics can be accessed through the Microsoft Fast Track site which supplies links to each participating training partner and their details.

In addition to its Friday training sessions, Microsoft Australia will also pilot a training session dubbed 'Microsoft Night School' to be run on Wednesday nights starting in mid April. Launched in response to demand from partners seeking after-work training opportunities, 'Microsoft Night School' will aim to provide partners with "Readiness Training" on Windows Server 2008, MOSS and SQL Server 2008.

The first ‘Night School’ will kick off at 4.30pm on April 23rd in Sydney and will then take place on a monthly basis.