Microsoft Abbreviations Dictionary

The special dictionary of Microsoft abbreviations and acronyms for better communications with Microsoft employees.

1. www.resourceit.net/MAD




























MICROSOFT ABBREVIATION
DICTIONARY

2. VIEW.
Find the latest abbreviations
at www.resourceit.net/MAD

3. #
3PI (1) Third Party Installer
Using Microsoft Installer Package (MSI) to install third party
programs onto computers on the network.
3PI (2) Third Party Integrator
A company other than the OEM Customer that creates an
image on the OEM Customer’s behalf. An integrator can only
distribute product back to the OEM Customer.
3PL Third Party Logistics Provider
A firm that provides service to its customers of outsourced
(or “third party”) logistics services for part, or all of their 
supply chain management functions.
A
ABC Activity Based Costing
This costing model assigns the cost of all activities used in
the production of a product proportionally across each
item produced.
ABM Activity Based Management
Identify and manage costs using ABC.
ACL Access Control List
A list of permissions and the actions allowable to objects
or users.
ACT Application Compatibility Toolkit
Allows customers to understand their application compatibility
situation by identifying which applications are compatible with
the Windows Operating System and which applications require
further testing.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
1

4. AD Active Directory
Used to store network, domain and user information and
used by computer administrators to manage files, user
permissions and accounts.
ADDS Active Directory Domain Services
Stores directory data and manages communication between
users and domains, including user logon processes,
authentication, and directory searches.
ADFS Azure Directory Federation Services
Simplifies access to systems and applications using a claims-
based access.
ADR Authorised Device Reseller
A business that has been given approval to sell Microsoft
devices.
AE (1) Academic Edition
Microsoft software offered at a discounted price for qualifying
educational and academic organisations.
AE (2) Architect Evangelist
A technical consultant working in the Microsoft Developer &
Platform Evangelism (DPE) group who helps customers and
partners build solutions on the newest technologies.
AER Authorised Education Reseller
An organisation authorised to sell Microsoft products at
academic prices to qualified educational users.
AIM APO Implementation Management Initiative
A way to license Application Platform products across
an organisation.
AMS Account Management Specialists
Job title within Microsoft for someone who has specific
account management skills in a particular market, product
or solution area.
APA Application Platform Agreement
Original term used to describe a licensing agreement, now
superseded by EAP and ECI (see definitions).
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
2

5. APAC Asia and Pacific Region
API Application Programming Interface
A specification that allows different programs to exchange
information and communicate with each other.
APIPA Automatic Private IP Addressing
A way for DHCP clients to obtain IP addresses if the DHCP
server is not available.
APM Academic Programme Manager
Job title within Microsoft for someone who owns or manages
programmes within the Education sector.
APO (1) Advanced Planning & Optimisation
Tools used by Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) specialists to
plan/optimise supply chains.
APO (2) Application Platform Optimisation
A framework provided by Microsoft that you can use to align
your applications with business processes and objectives. It
covers Developer and SQL solutions.
AR Authorised Replicator
A Microsoft reseller who can provide authorised copies of
some products on CD to OEM partners and System Builders.
ARK Authorised Replicator Kit
Tools used by an Authorised Replicator.
ASP Active Server Pages
Program that runs on a web server and provides dynamically
generated HTML pages for the client. Superseded by ASP.net.
ASR Azure Site Recovery
Cloud-based disaster recovery service for critical IT data and
systems.
ATG Accessible Technology Group
Virtual group within Microsoft that focuses on working to
make technology accessible to all types of people,
regardless of age, environment or requirement.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
3

6. ATS Account Technical Specialist
A job title for a technical specialist within the Account Team
Unit (ATU) in the Enterprise & Partner Group (EPG). They
support Business Managers in working with Enterprise
customers.
ATU Account Team Unit
The team in the Enterprise Partner Group (EPG) responsible
for managing the commercial relationship with Enterprise
customers. It is divided into vertical sectors (i.e. Finance,
Retail, Communications).
AUB All Up Business
A phrase used within Microsoft to refer to the whole business
from top to bottom.
AX Axapta
An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) product
purchased by Microsoft and now integrated into the
Microsoft Dynamics family.
B
B2B Business to Business
A term used referring to a business that is conducted between
companies, rather than between a company and individual
consumers.
B2C Business to Consumer
A term used for describing a business model that seeks to sell
its products or services direct to Consumers rather than direct
to other businesses.
BAD Business Applications Division
Name changed to Microsoft Business Solutions (Dynamics).
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
4

7. BANT Budget, Authority, Need, Timescale
A method of qualifying a sales opportunity.
B = Budget available or at least under discussion
A = Individual holds the authority to decide
N = A recognised need/business driver for the solution
T = Realistic timescale exists for customer decision making
BCS Business Connectivity Services
A set of services and features that allows SharePoint to connect
to external data (replaces the Business data catalogue).
BDA Business Decision Appliance
A complete pre-configured, tuned BI solution that integrates
hardware, software, and support. Includes SQL Server,
SharePoint and PowerPivot for SharePoint.
BDM (1) Business Decision Maker
Person who views investment requirements at a high level
and makes the decision on what is required to support the
business goals and usually the person who controls the budget
and ultimately signs off on funding.
BDM (2) Business Development Manager
Responsible for establishing strategic business development
initiatives that drive growth through product expansion,
partnerships and alliances. Identifies new business
opportunities and creates appropriate business plans.
BDW Business Decision Warehouse
Also known as a data warehouse (DW).
BG Business Group
Colloquially called BGs, these are the product teams that
sit within the Marketing and Operations. Examples include:
Windows, Server & Tools, Information Worker.
BI Business Intelligence
Turning data into information and making it accessible to the
right people at the right time through smart tools.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
5

8. BIDS Business Intelligence Development Studio
A development toolkit provided by Microsoft for developing
BI solutions. Replaced by SQL Server 2012.
BIF Business Investment Funds
Funds that Microsoft makes available to support the adoption
/ deployment of technology with a customer. Provided on an
exception basis only. Typically used to support a pilot or proof of
concept for new technologies or in highly competitive scenarios.
BISM Business Intelligence Semantic Model
The use of SQL Server Analysis Services 2012 plus PowerPivot
to develop BI solutions.
BITS Background Intelligent Transfer Service
A data transfer tool used for example in Microsoft update
services where BITS uses idle bandwidth to transfer data
and updates.
BIX Business Intelligence eXperience
Refers to the Business Intelligence Experience Workshop that
Microsoft runs.
BLOB Binary Large Objects
A data type used in programming that can hold a large
amount of data - especially useful for storing images,
audio and multimedia data.
BM Business Manager
An account manager, typically within the Account Team Unit
(ATU) responsible for the commercial relationship between
Microsoft and a selected number of customer accounts.
BMO Business and Marketing Organisation or Officer
The division in Microsoft which the Business Groups (BGs),
and product managers in the subsidiary report into. It is also
responsible for managing marketing and PR activities for
other groups.
BOF Beginning of File
In computer programming, this indicates that the current
record position is before the first record in a Record set object.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
6

9. BOM Bill of Materials
All of the marketing assets available to be used by Microsoft or
Partners with customers in the context of a campaign.
BPO Business Planning Organisation
An internal Microsoft phrase that refers to a virtual team who
conduct comprehensive business plans specific to driving
increased growth, profitability or market share of a particular
product, solution or service.
BPOS Business Productivity Online Suite
Microsoft’s first release of online messaging and collaboration
tools, delivered through a subscription service. Replaced by
Office 365.
BPR Business Process Review
An activity undertaken by a business to ensure that it is
operating in the most efficient manner.
BREP Business Ready Enhancement Plan
A maintenance plan available to customers of Microsoft
Dynamics AX, Microsoft C5, Microsoft Dynamics CRM,
Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics Mobile, Microsoft
Dynamics NAV and Microsoft Dynamics SL worldwide.
BTS BizTalk Server
Microsoft technology used to integrate disparate applications
and set up communications between different systems.
BTW By The Way
BVPS Business Value Planning Services
A component of Microsoft’s Packaged Service benefits offered
to customers who signed up to specific types of licensing
agreements. Consultancy days were provided by partners
and fees reclaimable from Microsoft. This is now retired.
BYOD Bring Your Own Device
Policy of permitting employees to bring personally owned
devices into workplace.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
7

10. C
CA Corporate Accounts
The name given to the sales team that manages the
commercial relationship between Microsoft and customers
that are managed within the ‘Small & Midmarket Solutions
and Partners’ (SMS&P) group.
CAB Corporate Application Builders
Partners developing apps on Microsoft Azure for corporates.
CAH Cloud Activation Hub
A hub of information for Cloud partners.
CAL Client Access Licence
A licence that entitles an individual user to access specific
software. See Core CAL and ECAL.
CAM (1) Corporate Account Managed
A segmentation term for customers directly managed by
Microsoft within a certain part of the Corporate Accounts
team.
CAM (2) Channel Audience Manager
The person responsible for the business planning and
marketing activity within the Medium Business channel
(could be aligned to a specific market sector).
CAM-E Corporate Account Managed - EPG (was CFAM)
A segmentation term for Enterprise customers directly
managed by Microsoft within the Enterprise part of the
Corporate Accounts team.
CAM-S Corporate Account Managed - SMS&P (was CIAM)
A segmentation term for SMS&P customers directly managed
by Microsoft within the SMS&P part of the Corporate
Accounts team.
CASA Campus and Schools Agreement
A program that offers discount to students at various stages
of education on Microsoft products and software.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
8

11. CBT Computer Based Training
Delivery of online training. CBT usually refers to software
specifically written for training.
CC (1) Call Centre
A centralised office for sending / receiving large volume
of phone calls either for telemarketing or for customer
management.
CC (2) Customer Care
A module available with Microsoft Dynamics CRM.
CC (3) Cost Centre
A finance code that a department’s expenses can be tracked
to. Each cost centre has a budget for annual expenses;
hardware upgrades; training etc.
CCG Consumer Channels Group
Formed in early 2011, it brings together Microsoft’s retail,
mobile operator and distribution teams into one group -
focused on Windows, Windows Phone, Office and Xbox.
CCP Compliance Checking Programme
A programme run by Microsoft a number of years ago to help
customers make decisions about upgrades. Now retired.
CDM Channel Development Manager
A marketing person responsible for working with partners on
marketing and incentive opportunities.
CE Central Europe
In Microsoft terms this would be used to describe the group of
countries specific to this area of the globe.
CEBP Communications Enabled Business Process
The ability to embed unified communications capabilities such
as email, instant messaging, telephony, video, conferencing,
and application sharing into day-to-day business processes
and line of business applications.
CED Contract End Date
CEE Central Eastern Europe
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
9

12. CEO Chief Executive Officer
CFAM Corporate Field Account Managed
Corporate accounts managed by a field sales team within
Microsoft. The customer accounts managed can vary on an
annual basis.
CFI Continuous Fiscal Improvement
Strategy to achieve growth and increased profitability year
on year.
Channel9 Channel 9
A website providing information on emerging Microsoft
products and technologies via videos, blogs, hands on labs,
code samples and free technical training.
CHIP Channel Incentive Programme
A localised incentive programme for the partner channel (Disti,
resellers, SI, LAR) that provides marketing support and funding
to drive additional sales. Commitments to drive and report
against licences sold or influenced count towards the cash
incentives available. CHIP is only available to partners who
meet specific qualification criteria.
CIAM (1) Corporate Internal Account Managed
Corporate accounts managed by an internally based Microsoft
sales team. The customer accounts managed can vary on an
annual basis.
CIAM (2) Customer Inside Account Managed
A customer supported by an office-based account manager
via phone / email.
CIE Customer Immersion Experience
A facilitated hands-on environment, based at a Microsoft
Office, where business and IT decision makers test drive
Microsoft technologies including Office 365, Office, Exchange,
SharePoint, Lync, Project, Visio, Windows, Windows Phone,
Dynamics CRM and System Center.
CIL Comments In Line
Comments inserted within the text that they refer to.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
10

13. CIO Chief Information Officer
CIM Common Information Model
An open standard that defines how information can be shared.
CLM Customer Lifecycle Management
The progression of steps a partner goes through to build and
maintain customer loyalty, ensuring that customers consume
software benefits and partner services, and renew their licensing
agreement in years to come. CLM is a best practice methodology.
CLT Call Logging Tool
Call logging involves collecting phone call data, analysing the
data and then reporting back on performance.
CM Content Management
The set of processes and technologies that support the
collection, managing, and publishing of information in any
form or medium. 
CMG Central Marketing Group
The group responsible for co-ordinating marketing activity
across customers and partners. It is joined to the Consumer
Channels Group (CCG).
CMO Central Marketing Organisation
Group responsible for co-ordinating marketing activities.
CMS Content Management System
The tools and technologies that help collect, manage and
publish information in any format.
COA Certificate of Authenticity
A certificate that proves the software it is attached to is a
legal copy.
COB Close of Business
End of the working day.
COGS Costs of Goods Sold
The original purchase cost of the products that were later sold.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
11

14. COO (1) Country of Origin
Where something comes from.
COO (2) Chief Operating Officer
COP Close of Play
End of the working day.
Core CAL Core Client Access Licence
Provides users of certain Microsoft technologies the right to
access, and use, essential software capabilities that all users
need. (see ECAL)
CoreIO Core Infrastructure Optimisation
A structured process to help customers and partners optimise
their IT environments. Refers to the technology products,
platform and tools that will provide maximum IT performance
for a business.
COS Conditions of Satisfaction
A set of statements designed to measure the health of the
business relationship between Microsoft and its managed
partner / customer community. They are recorded and
monitored within individual business plans.
CP (1) Cardinal Place
Microsoft UK’s London Office at 80-100 Victoria Street.
CP (2) Core Product
Refers to the core product within a specific technology
solution.
CPE Customer Partner Experience
A set of measures and targets supported by specific activities
that enable Microsoft to assess how customers and partners
perceive the solutions and services Microsoft provides. See
also COS.
CPLS Certified Partner for Learning Solutions
Partners authorised by Microsoft to deliver Microsoft training
using Microsoft Official Curriculum materials (MOC).
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
12

15. CPM Customer Programme Manager
Microsoft job role for someone who owns a specific
programme or initiative.
CPP Cloud Partner Profitability
Profitability calculator for partners selling Microsoft cloud.
CPR Compete/Competitive Practice Recruiter (was SCDM)
A channel development manager focused on identifying
potential new partners from competitive practices.
CPS Customer Price Sheet
A quotation provided to an end customer. In Microsoft
terms the LAR’s have price sheets related to the licensing
costs of software.
CPWEB Channel Partner Web
Now almost distinct term used for describing a Microsoft
partner that focuses on web development.
CRC (1) Cyclical Redundancy Check
An algorithm used in computing to check errors.
CRC (2) Custom Recovery CD
A CD provided by the seller to enable a customer to reinstall
purchased software.
CRM Customer Relationship Management
The process of managing an organisation’s interactions with its
customers, partners, employees and external agencies in order
to create increased customer loyalty and satisfaction.
CRMOL Customer Relationship Management Online
A Microsoft Dynamics Software-as-a-Service (SAAS) solution
that offers customer relationship solutions.
CS Commerce Server
An e-commerce platform for B2B and B2C e-commerce
solutions. The last MS version was Commerce Server 2009 -
now transitioned to Ascentium.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
13

16. CSA Competitive Sales Assistance
A way to request help in a sale against a technology that is
competitive to Microsoft. Obtained internally at Microsoft
from ‘get help’ or by partners from the partner presales and
advisory services included in MPN benefits.
CSF Critical Success Factor
A measurement or indicator that is vital for a strategy
to succeed.
CSG Contingent Staffing Group
Contractors employed by an agency to work at, or on behalf
of Microsoft.
CSP Cloud Solution Provider
Agreement that allows partners to sell Microsoft cloud
services along with their own offerings and services.
CSS (1) Cascading Style Sheets
A set of rules that form a style sheet that describes how an
XML web document can be laid out.
CSS (2) Customer Service & Support Group
Business group dedicated to providing customers with
assistance on Microsoft products and services.
CSV Cloud Service Vendor
Organisations that create business applications available
through cloud computing environments.
CTM Corporate Territory Managed
Partners that are segmented by their regional area and
provided with a local Territory Manager to contribute to
management and success of the relationship.
CTO Chief Technology Officer
CTP Community Technology Preview
A community technology preview released by Microsoft to get
feedback on current development.
CUP Competitive Upgrade Advantage
An upgrade licence - no longer available.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
14

17. CxO Chief ‘x’ Officer
A generic term to describe board level executives
e.g. CEO, CTO, CIO.
D
DAM Distribution Account Manager
An account manager in SMS&P tasked with managing
distribution partners.
DB Database
A collection of data records and files including multimedia data.
DBA Database Administrator/Analyst
Technical engineer responsible for database development.
DBCC Database Consistency Check
A process in SQL that allows it to check for file structure errors
in the database.
DBMS Database Management System
An application that manages the data in a database providing
reporting; querying and the adding and updating of data.
DCOM Distributed Component Object Model
A Microsoft technology that provides the instructions for
software to ‘talk’ across networked computers.
DCR Design Change Request
A document requesting a change to be made - a change of
process or a change to the way a piece of software works.
DCS Data Center Services
Support the projects and operation of the Datacenter.
DDC Dynamic Datacentre
A combination of automation, control and resource
management software. See the DDC Toolkit for hosters which
helps you create public or private cloud infrastructures.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
15

18. DDI Direct Dialing In
Direct dial, rather than switchboard, telephone number
(typically landline).
DDK Driver Development Kit
A set of software tools that can be provided to third parties to
write new drivers for hardware and software to ‘talk’ together
(similar to API and SDK).
DDPS Desktop Deployment Planning Services
A paid consultancy offering that can be delivered by partners
for Microsoft to customers who have Software Assurance (SA)
benefits included within their licensing agreement. Specific to
delivery of desktop solutions projects.
DEV Developer Division
The Business Group engaged in Application development.
DFM Design for Manufacturability
The process of designing a product so that it is easy to
manufacture.
DHCP Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
Provides a centralised list of devices with IP addresses on a
network.
DIP Document Information Panel
A Microsoft Office InfoPath form that is hosted and displayed
within a document.
DISTI Distributor
An organisation authorised by Microsoft to sell Open software
licences to end customers and channel resellers.
DL Distribution List
A list of people or an email group to send relevant information to.
DLL Dynamic Link Library
Library file containing a set of procedures and/or drivers that
are referenced and executed by a program.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
16

19. DNS (1) Digital Nervous System
A phrase from Bill Gate’s 1999 book ‘Business at the
Speed of Thought’.
DNS (2) Domain Name System
A naming system for sites on the internet which maps the
domain name e.g. Microsoft.com to its IP address.
DOS Disk Operating System
A set of programs that help to control hardware and software.
DPE Developer Platform Evangelism
A division in Microsoft that is responsible for driving adoption
of, and development on, the latest platform technologies.
DPoR Digital Partner of Record
Customer to designate a Partner as the partner of record for
cloud solutions.
DPPM Defective parts per million
A calculation used in the six sigma process.
DPS Deployment Planning Services
Provides customers with access to qualified partners for the
delivery.
DRA Data Recovery Agent
Accounts that are able to decrypt Bitlocker protected drives by
using smart card certificates and public keys.
DRP Distribution Requirements Planning
Ensuring that the right goods are at the right location at the
right time.
DTS Data Transformation Services – SQL Server
A set of automation tools in SQL to allow the loading of files/
data into a database.
DW Data Warehouse
A database built to support analysis and reporting.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
17

20. DX Developer Experience
A Microsoft business unit responsible for promoting Microsoft
developer platform products and technologies to developers
in leading edge and high-profile companies. Formally known as
the Developer and Platform Evangelism (DPE) team.
E
E2E Edge-to-Edge Hologram
A volume licensing program for large organisations that have
250 or more desktop computers. The program provides a
simple, flexible, and affordable way to buy the latest Microsoft
software products.
EA Enterprise Agreement(s)
A Microsoft licensing programme only available through the
Large Account Reseller (LAR) community and designed for
larger organisations (c.250 seats plus) who wish to license their
entire desktop estate. It provides volume discounts, provisions
for on-premise and cloud, and includes Software Assurance.
EAP Enrolment for Application Platform
A licensing programme that covers SQL Server 2012,
Visual Studio, BizTalk Server and SharePoint Services.
EAS Enterprise Agreement Subscription
Payment process assigned to an Enterprise Licensing
Agreement. Now retired.
EBC Executive Briefing Centre
On-site Microsoft facility that delivers world class briefings
to Enterprise customers and partners. It focuses on driving
discussion and action for IT strategy, and building strategic
business relationships with customers.
ECAL Enterprise Client Access Licence (suite)
A licence that authorises you to connect devices or users to
Microsoft Servers. An ECAL provides access to the enterprise
editions of the following servers: Windows, Exchange,
SharePoint, Lync, System Center and Forefront.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
18

21. ECI Enrolment for Core Infrastructure
A specialised licensing agreement that covers Windows Server
and System Center 2012.
ECN Engineering Change Notification
A document which records or authorises a change to a specific
design. 
ECOIT Enterprise Customer Opportunity Information Tool
A database held by Microsoft. The data contained within it
helps to identify the propensity to buy, or upgrade to, new
technology of an Enterprise customer.
ECR Engineering Change Request
A document containing a call for an adjustment of a system; it
is of great importance in the change management process.
ECS Enterprise Cloud Suite
A per user licensing option available through the Microsoft
Enterprise Agreement that brings together Office 365 E3,
Enterprise Mobility Suite, and Windows Software Assurance
per User.
EDI Electronic Data Interchange
An electronic communication system that provides standards
for exchanging data via any electronic means.
EDLAR Education Licensed Account Reseller
An approved Microsoft reseller that is authorised to sell
educational licences to schools and colleges.
EDRM Electronic Document and Records Management
The electronic management of documents and records from
creation through to deletion.
EDU Education
Term used to describe the Education sector.
EE (1) Eastern Europe
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
19

22. EE (2) Enterprise Edition
A version of various Microsoft servers that contains advanced
functionality required by larger organisations for effective
management of their infrastructures.
EES Enrolment for Education Solutions
A method of offering academic customers a cost-effective
Microsoft software through a single subscription agreement.
EFS Encrypted File System
Allows files on a Microsoft Operating System to be encrypted
to protect confidential data.
EHQ European Headquarters
EI End Item
Final item.
ELP Effect Licensing Position
Documents produced at the end of a software asset
management engagement documenting the number
of copies of Microsoft software in use in the customer’s
organisation.
EMEA Europe Middle East and Africa
EML Enterprise Marketing Leads
A Microsoft job title for individuals who are charged with
executing on an enterprise marketing strategy, and driving
demand, awareness and pipeline acceleration.
EMM Enterprise Mobility Management
A marketing scenario focused on enterprise mobility
solutions.
EMOLP Electronic MOLP
See MOLP.
EMS Enterprise Mobility Suite
A cloud solution that offers people access to all applications
across multiple devices.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
20

23. EOB End of Business
End of the working day.
EOC (1) European Operations Centre
EOC (2) End of Conversation
EOD End of Day
EOL End of Life
Product is at the end of its lifecycle of support.
EOM End of Message
EOS End of Support
No longer supported by vendor.
EOYR End of Year Review
Refers to the discussion and analysis of an annual
performance for an individual person. As Microsoft’s end of
year is June, the end of year review process would be taking
place around June and early July.
EPDC European Product Development Centre
EPG Enterprise & Partner Group
A business division within Microsoft that focuses on enterprise
customers and Global System Integrator (GSI) partners. Within
this division, the sales teams are located within the Account
Team Unit (ATU), technical pre-sales specialists are within the
Specialist Team Unit (STU) and the partner team is located
within the Partner Team Unit (PTU).
EPM (1) Enterprise Programme Manager
Leads and engages cross functional teams to manage value
being delivered within the programme.
EPM (2) Enterprise Project Management
A group of Microsoft project management products that
include Project Standard, Project Professional and
Project Server.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
21

24. EPM (3) Enterprise Project Management
Managing a project to deliver an outcome at a level
considered suitable for an enterprise (i.e. Inferring
comprehensive, scalable, robust and high quality).
EPS Earnings per Share
Shows a company’s profitability by calculating the proportion
of profit per share.
ERP Enterprise Resource Planning
Generally referred to as the software-based management
tools that integrate data from all departments and functions
into a single application.
ES Enterprise Services
Services such as consulting or product support offered to
enterprise customers.
ESA Enterprise Software Advisor
An accreditation that proves an individual is able to advise
customers on licensing agreements.
ESC Enterprise Strategy Consultant
A consultant in Microsoft’s Services division who works with
the customer to review what technologies a customer is
using along with the business goals. These are then analysed
and results presented back to the board to plan and design
solutions to align with the business needs and growth plans.
ESD Electronic Software Distribution
The ability to download software over the internet.
ESF Electronic Software Fulfilment
Similar to ESD, software can be purchased and delivered
online together with activation codes.
ESG Embedded System Group
A group focused on embedding Microsoft Operating System
into devices. It is now part of the Client team.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
22

25. ESL End User Subscription Licence
A licence agreement that has an end date - but can be
renewed. The start of the subscription is taken from when the
product subscription was activated.
ETL Extract Transform & Load
A process to take data from a data source and insert it
into a SQL Server database.
ETR Estimated Time to Resolution
Used in the context of a help desk call – how long a problem
will take to be resolved.
EU End User
The individual who uses the software.
EULA End User Licence Agreement
A contract that defines how the user may use/transfer the
licence for the use of the software.
EV Enterprise Voice (for Microsoft Skype for Business)
A functionality of Skype for Business.
EWC Enterprise Wide Commitment
Commitment across the business.
ExRCA Exchange Remote Connectivity Analyser
A tool that helps to confirm that the connectivity for the
Exchange Servers is configured correctly, and diagnoses
connectivity issues.
EZ ExpertZone - Training Portal
Portal for retail organisations to get the latest information and
training on Microsoft retail technologies.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
23

26. F
FA Fixed Assets
For businesses, fixed assets include buildings, equipment,
vehicles etc.
FAI First Article Inspection
The act of comparing a physical sample part with the
specifications against which it was made.
FAO For the Attention Of
FAQ Frequently Asked Questions
FE Far East
FIFO First In First Out
An inventory calculation that provides a value for stock in the
financial accounts.
FIS For Internet sites
Microsoft often refers to “MOSS FIS” - which stands for
Microsoft Office SharePoint Server (MOSS) For Internet Sites
(FIS). Referring to how a customer may decide to write and
build its website using SharePoint.
FLA Final Licence Agreement
The licensing agreement that has eventually been agreed
usually following intensive discussion and debate.
FOC Free of Charge
At no cost.
FPO For Position Only
As relevant to that particular role.
FPP Full Packaged Product
A Microsoft product that is bought from a retailer - either on
the high street or online. It comes in a box with a DVD,
manual and a EULA. Suitable for 5+ users only.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
24

27. FTC Full Time Contractor
An independent contractor who works full time for an
organisation.
FTE (1) Full Time Equivalent
Using full time equivalent provides a method of comparing
workload e.g. 0.5 FTE would mean that a person would work
only half the time.
FTE (2) Full Time Employee
A person who is employed directly.
FUD Fear uncertainty and doubt
Used to influence people to make a purchase. Often associated
with negative, dubious or false information.
FY Financial Year
Microsoft FY runs 1st July to 30th June.
FYI For Your Information
G
GA General Availability
The point at which a ‘new’ Microsoft technology is launched
and available to purchase on volume licensing.
GAL Global Address List
A list of all the business users stored on a company’s
messaging platform - e.g. Exchange.
GAM Global Account Manager
Employed (usually by Microsoft Redmond) to manage global
customer or partner accounts. Operates at CxO level.
GBM Global Business Manager
Employed (usually by Microsoft Redmond) to manage global
customer or partner accounts. Operates at CxO level.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
25

28. GDIS Global Direct Incentives System for Retailers
System to manage data for direct incentives for retailers.
GGWA Get Genuine Windows Agreement
An anti-piracy programme that provides a way for customers
to license any ‘non licensed’ copies of Windows through a
Volume License Agreement.
GIGO Garbage In-Garbage Out
You only get out what you put in. Lacking or negative content
or contribution will produce lacking or negative results.
GL General Ledger
GM (1) General Manager
The manager of a division - SMSP, EPG, Services, CCG, etc..
GM (2) Group Manager
A manager responsible for a team who reports into a
Director.
GOLP Government Open Licensing Programme
A licensing programme designed specifically for Government.
GP Great Plains
A financial accounting solution acquired by Microsoft which is
part of the Dynamics suite of products.
GPF Growth & Productivity Framework
Used to describe a process, methodology or framework that
is designed to deliver maximum results.
GPO Group Policy Object
A set of security settings that manage users’ rights on
a computer.
GPS Global Partner Services
As part of the partner programme, Microsoft partners have
access to support services for pre-sales and deployment
questions from the GPS team.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
26

29. GSX (1) Global Sales Experience
GSX (2) Global Sales Exchange
The internal implementation of Microsoft CRM to manage
customer accounts and opportunities.
GTM Go To Market: Marketing Campaigns/Initiatives
Provides a focused set of resources required to deliver
a successful campaign from a marketing BOM and
incentives perspective.
GUI Graphical User Interface
A type of user interface that allows users to interact with
electronic devices using images rather than text commands.
H
HCL Hardware Compatibility List
A published list of computer hardware that has been
extensively tested for stability and compatibility with the
software solution.
HCT Hardware Compatibility Test
A downloadable utility that allows you to test drivers etc.
with new software releases.
HF Hot Fix
A collection of files that are used to fix / patch a problem with
a computer implementation. Can be applied without taking the
computer offline.
HRD Home and Retail Division
Division within the Microsoft business that focused on
personal (within the home) purchase of relevant
products/services.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
27

30. I
IAAS Infrastructure as a Service
Part of the ‘cloud’ vocabulary that refers to virtual machines
and storage networking components.
IAG Intelligent Application Gateway
Now called Forefront Unified Access Gateway: it provides
secure remote access to a corporate network.
IAMCP International Association of Microsoft
Channel Partners
An independent community of Microsoft partners which
have grouped together in order to maximise their individual
business opportunity.
ICMP Internet Control Message Protocol
One of the main protocols of the Internet Protocol Suite. It is
used by network devices, like routers, to send error messages
indicating, for example, that a requested service is not
available or that a host or router could not be reached.
ICON Intercontinental (formally South Pacific
and Americas)
IDE Integrated Development Environment
Provides developers with an environment within which they
can write programmes - such as Visual Studio - and integrate
with other teams and resources.
IE Internet Explorer
Microsoft’s web browser for accessing the Internet.
IEAK Internet Explorer Administration Kit
Simplifies the creation, deployment and management of
customised Internet Explorer packages.
IEB Interactive Entertainment Business
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
28

31. IHV (1) Independent Hardware Vendor
An organisation that specialises in making or selling computer
hardware, usually for niche markets.
IHV (2) Independent Hosting Vendor
Business that provides independent hosting products.
IIS (1) Internet Information Services
The new name for the services provided by Microsoft Internet
Information Server (IIS).
IIS (2) Internet Information Server
A component of the Windows Server product that provides the
capability to use Windows Server as a web server.
IKE Internet Key Exchange
A standard that allows information to be passed between
systems for access to networks.
ILT Instructor Led Training
Training delivered by a physical person (instructor) usually
face to face.
IM (1) Industry Manager
A person in the Partner Team Unit (PTU) in the Enterprise
Partner Group (EPG) who focuses on applications, partners
and solutions in a particular industry.
IM (2) Instant Messenger
A form of communication over the internet that allows you to
exchange text messages in real time with another person.
IMDM Industry Market Development Manager
A person in the Partner Team Unit (PTU) within Enterprise
Partner Group (EPG) who focuses on developing an ecosystem
of applications, partners and solutions in a particular industry.
IMG (1) Information Management Group
IMG (2) Interactive Media Group
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
29

32. IO (1) Infrastructure Optimisation
A structured process for assessing an organisation’s IT
infrastructure and application platform. It helps customers
build a roadmap to define future projects.
IO (2) Internal Order
Microsoft term for internal financial codes.
IOD Installation-on-Demand
A feature of Windows Installer that makes it possible to offer
functionality to users and applications in the absence of files
themselves.
IOI Infrastructure Optimisation Initiative
An earlier term for IO - Infrastructure Optimisation.
IoT Internet of Things
The network of physical objects that contain embedded
technology to communicate and sense or interact with their
internal states or the external environment.
IP (1) Intellectual Property
Typically a non-physical asset such as a brand, an invention,
a design or a song. IP is specific to an individual or an
organisation and implies ownership rights and
consequently, value.
IP (2) Internet Protocol
The address of a device on a computer network.
IPM (1) International Product Marketer
Someone who owns a product within a specific region, rather
than within an individual country.
IPM (2) Industry Partner Manager
A partner manager focused on the solutions and partners for a
particular industry.
IQRRR In Quarter Renewal & Recapture Rate
A measure of the percentage of license renewals that were
renewed each fiscal quarter against the target.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
30

33. IRM Internal Rights Management
A secure way to send documents and emails to other people
to prevent them forwarding or copying information from the
document.
IRR Internal Rate of Return
A measure of the profitability of investments.
ISA (1) Internet Security and Acceleration
Replaced by the Microsoft Forefront Threat Management
Gateway 2010.
ISA (2) Industry Standard Architecture
A hardware technology that provided a way of transferring
data around a PC.
ISC Indian Sub-Continent
ISS Inside Sales Specialists
Individuals within Microsoft who function as inside sales
representatives.
ISV Independent Software Vendor
A company that specialises in writing its own software
applications.
ITA IT Architect
A technical specialist that focuses on developing a strategic
solution.
ITAP IT Architecture and Planning
ITAP advisors operate out of the Microsoft Services
organisation.
ITDM IT Decision Maker
IUI Integrated User Interface
One of the three techniques used to perform Enterprise
Application Integration.
IUR Internal Use Rights
Free licences provided by the Microsoft Partner Network for
internal use by a partner organisation.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
31

34. IVR Item-Vendor Relationship
A code in the Microsoft Operations database that supports
vendor management.
IW Information Worker
A user who accesses and uses information typically via the
Microsoft Office desktop suite of tools.
J
JAD Joint Application Development
A development methodology that involves the user in helping
design and develop an application through a series of JAD
workshops.
K
KMS Key Management Server
Provides the capability to activate a volume licence.
KPI Key Performance Indicators
Quantifiable measurements defined by an organisation to help
them track progress towards goals.
KW (1) Knowledge Worker
A person who ‘thinks’ for a living e.g. Engineers, architects,
lawyers, doctors, teachers etc.
KW (2) Kiosk Worker
Someone who needs to access information infrequently -
so shares a PC which acts as a kiosk.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
32

35. L
L&EDPS Lync and Exchange Deployment Planning Services
A funded Lync and Exchange deployment consultancy offering
that can be delivered by partners for Microsoft to customers
who have Software Assurance (SA). Originally known as EDPS.
L&SA Licences plus Software Assurance
Refers to the purchase or point of renewal of an Open Licence
where a customer can purchase either just the license or the
license plus Software Assurance.
LAMP Linux Apache MySQL Php
Collection of Open Source products that compete with
Windows 2012, IIS, SQL2012, Visual Studio.
LAMPS Linux Apache MySQL Php SSL
Collection of Open Source products that compete with
Windows 2012, IIS, SQL2012, Visual Studio. The ‘S’ standing for
SSL since the RSA patent fell into the public domain.
LAR Large Account Reseller
A partner that is part of a very small group of partners
authorised by Microsoft to sell EA and Select Agreements
to end customers. Specialises in providing customers with
licensing advice and management services. Now called LSP.
LATAM Latin America
LCA Legal and Corporate Affairs
Looks after Microsoft’s business, legal and regulatory affairs
around the world.
LCM Lifecycle Management
Group within PIRS that manages end item SKUs and their
lifecycles.
LCS Lifecycle Status
The current status of a SKU or set of SKUs.
LEPD Learning Entertainment & Productivity Division
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
33

36. LIFO Last In First Out
LIR Licence Information Repository
Data store for licence information.
LKV License Key Verification
Now Online Registration Wizard.
LOB Line of Business
Refers to a specific business stream - LOB applications would be
implemented to deliver value to a defined area of a business.
LP Learning Plan
A structured plan developed from the output of a training
needs analysis to help a partner/customer identify how to
improve tier capabilities.
LPM Localisation Product Manager
Product Manager focusing on localised (non-US) languages.
LR Licence Reservation
LSP Licensing Solution Provider
Microsoft’s largest value-added resellers (VARs) that are
authorized to sell licenses to midsize and enterprise accounts
through a special volume licensing program that has more
generous discounts than Microsoft’s standard licensing
program.
LSS Licensing Sales Specialist
An internal role at Microsoft.
LVM Low Volume Manufacturing
Designing a manufacturing process where there will only be
small volumes made e.g. Medical equipment.
LVP Licence Verification Programme/Process
A process used by software vendors to check the user has an
authorised licence.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
34

37. M
MAAD Microsoft Azure Acitive Directory
Provides management of identity and access to services
and applications within Microsoft Azure to keep business
information secure.
MACH Microsoft Academy of College Hires
A program for selecting, hiring and skilling university
graduates.
MAD (1) Microsoft Abbreviation Dictionary
A dictionary of abbreviations and acronyms used within
Microsoft and its channel of partners.
MAD (2) Make a Difference
A charity initiative.
MAK Multiple Activation Key
Provides the capability to active volume licences.
MAP Microsoft Action Pack
Provides members of the Microsoft Partner Network access to
software, training, marketing tools, communities and support.
MARCOM Marketing Communications
Group within Microsoft that has overall responsibility,
ownership and management of all Marketing Communications.
MBR Monthly Business Review
A meeting where the Business Manager / Account Manager
presents their pipeline of customer opportunities to their
management team for discussion on how best ensure they are
successfully closed.
MBS Microsoft Business Solutions
Former name for the Microsoft Dynamics group of products
and previously a separate division of Microsoft.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
35

38. MBSA Microsoft Business Services Agreement
A contract between Microsoft and a partner/consultant
working for Microsoft.
MCA Microsoft Certified Architect
The highest technical accreditation available from Microsoft
Learning. Only available to those who have both technical
competence (MCM - Microsoft Certified Master) and proven
experience as a technology architect.
MCAD Microsoft Certified Application Developer
Replaced by MCSD - Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer.
MCAP (1) Microsoft Certified Architect Program
The program that enables individuals to achieve an MCA.
MCAP (2) Microsoft Certified Application Professional
MCAP has been rebranded as MOS - Microsoft Office Specialist.
MCAS Microsoft Certified Application Specialist
MCAS has been rebranded as MOS - Microsoft Office Specialist.
MCB Mobile Communications Business
MCBMSP Microsoft Certified Business Management Solutions
Professional
Rebranded as Microsoft Dynamics Certification.
MCDBA Microsoft Certified Database Administrator
Tested administrators ability to design and implement
SQL Server databases.
MCDST Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician
Accreditation that tested an individual’s ability to troubleshoot
desktop environments. Replaced by the MCITP: Windows 7
Enterprise Desktop Support Technician.
MCITP Microsoft Certified IT Professional
Builds on the technical proficiency gained in the MCTS
certifications and demonstrates that the person has the set
of skills needed to perform a particular role e.g. database
administrator.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
36

39. MCLC Microsoft Certified Learning Consultant
Recognises MCTs who have frequent consultations with their
customers. Their role is more that of a technology trainer,
they diagnose current and desired business performance and
design learning solutions to bridge the gap.
MCM Microsoft Certified Master
Offers exclusive, advanced training and certification on
Microsoft server technologies - Windows Server, Exchange,
Lync, SharePoint, SQL.
MCOIT Microsoft Customer Opportunity Information Tool
A tool used by Microsoft and shared with its distributors
and resellers. The data contained within MCOIT enables
distributors and resellers to predict their own customer’s
propensity to buy, or upgrade to, new technologies, according
to the information Microsoft has available about the partners’
own individual transactions.
MCP Microsoft Certified Professional
A Microsoft Learning accredited individual.
MCPD Microsoft Certified Professional Developer
Certifications available for Visual Studio, Silverlight, and
Windows Phone.
MCS Microsoft Consulting Services
The Microsoft services consultancy practice that helps selected
customers and partners deploy solutions effectively. Also
provides Premier Support to customers and partners.
MCSA Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator
Accreditation that validates the core Microsoft skills required
to manage a proficient IT environment.
MCSD Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer
Helps a developer to extend their skills into the new
Metro interface.
MCSE Microsoft Certified Systems Expert
Previously Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. The new
‘expert’ has been reintroduced and reinvented for the cloud.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
37

40. MCSP Microsoft Certified Solution Providers
Changed to Microsoft Partner Program (MSPP) and now
Microsoft Partner Network (MPN).
MCT Microsoft Certified Trainer
An individual who is authorised to deliver training on
Microsoft technologies.
MCTS Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist
A technical certification provided for a particular technology.
MDF Marketing Development Funds
Funds made available for marketing activities.
MDM (1) Master Data Management
Provides tools that are used to remove duplicates and
create one set of data. See MDS - Master Data Services in
SQL Server 2012.
MDM (2) Mobile Device Management
Providing protection and access for cloud and corporate-
connected devices in a single infrastructure, or completely
from the cloud.
MDOP Microsoft Desktop Optimisation Pack
A set of management and deployment tools that can be
purchased if a customer has Software Assurance. The tools
provide additional management capabilities for virtualisation
and user management.
MDS Master Data Services
The Microsoft SQL Server 2012 tool that is used to
undertake a Master Data Management project.
MDT Microsoft Deployment Toolkit
Contains the recommended processes and toolset for
automating desktop and server deployment.
MED-V Microsoft Enterprise Desktop Virtualisation
Used to assist deployment to Windows 7 by enabling users
to run Windows XP applications on Windows 7. (MED-V is a
component of MDOP).
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
38

41. MELP Microsoft Enterprise License Pack
A suite of technologies available as a subscription for Software
Assurance customers.
MENA Middle East and North Africa
MERT Microsoft End-user Reporting Tool
Customer tool used to report information to Microsoft.
METEOP Manual Enterprise Agreement True-Up and EAS
Annual Order Purchase (form)
Form used to calculate/complete information relating to the
agreed Enterprise Agreement.
MFC Microsoft Foundation Classes
A library that wraps portions of the Windows API in C++
classes, including functionality that enables them to use a
default application framework. Classes are defined for many of
the handle-managed Windows objects and also for predefined
windows and common controls.
MFCF Mobile First, Cloud First
A Microsoft initiative and strategy focused on products,
services, and experiences designed for the cloud and for
mobile devices. Also known as Mobile First, Cloud First.
MFT Microsoft FastTrack
Helps you get up and running with Microsoft cloud solutions.
MGB Microsoft Global Briefing
The old name for the internal sales briefing held annually. It is
now called MGX.
MGS Microsoft Global Summit
Now called the Microsoft Global High Tech Summit - this
meeting brings together business leaders and technology
experts to look at innovation.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
39

42. MGX Microsoft Global Exchange
The internal annual sales conference for Microsoft sales
teams. It is usually held a week after WPC - Worldwide
Partner Conference. Next years strategy is shared, awards
are distributed and outstanding contributions from staff are
recognised.
MIM Microsoft Identity Manager
A solution that allows an IT Manager to set up a common
identity for people in the company across a heterogeneous
environment.
MIME Messaging Internet Mail Exchange
A standard used to send/receive information in messaging.
MIOL Microsoft Ireland Operations Limited
Previously used to describe Microsoft business operation in
Ireland.
MLA Multiple Licence Agreement
A customer purchasing licences at different times using
different licence types could end up with a multiple licence
agreement.
MLF Microsoft Licensing Fulfilment
Using the VLSC - Volume Licensing Service Centre a customer
can fulfil their volume licensing requirements.
MLP Microsoft Licensing Pack
A license agreement product that authorises the making and
use of one (or more, if indicated on the MLP) additional copy of
a specified, previously licensed, Microsoft product.
MLS Microsoft Licence Statement
A document that covers all details of a given software license
agreement.
MLSE Microsoft Licensing Sales Expert
An internal role at Microsoft.
MLSS Microsoft Licensing Sales Specialist
A UK term for a licensing accreditation available through
Microsoft. Called Level 100 within Corp.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
40

43. MMME Microsoft Marketing Made Easy
Microsofts marketing support program for Gold and Silver
competency partners
MNA Multi National Account
A national OEM partner e.g. Dell, HP.
MOC Microsoft Official Curriculum
The authorised training materials that are prepared by
Microsoft Learning for use by trainers and CPLSs.
MOCP Microsoft Online Customer Service Portal
Also called the Microsoft Online Services Customer Portal -
it allows you to buy/trial subscriptions to Microsoft Online.
MOET Microsoft Order Entry Tool
Allows LARs to purchase licences and process purchase orders.
MOLP Microsoft Open Licence Pack/Programme
A licensing programme for small and midsize organisations.
MOM Microsoft Operations Manager
Was a management component of System Center – it is now
integrated into the System Center 2012 suite.
MORG Medium Organisation
Mid-size company.
MOS (1) Microsoft Office Specialist
A certification is available for the Microsoft Office applications.
MOS (2) Microsoft Online Services
Microsoft’s hosted software offering and a component of their
software plus services strategy.
MOSA Microsoft Online Subscription Agreement
A legally binding document that governs the use of Microsoft
online products.
MOSBAC Microsoft Online Services BlackBerry
Administration Center
An extension to existing Microsoft Online Services Administration
Centre that focuses on controlling BlackBerry licences.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
41

44. MOSDAL Microsoft Online Services Diagnostics and Logging
Helps with Office 365 integration and deployment.
MOSP (1) Microsoft Online Services Programme
Also called the Microsoft Online Services Customer Portal -
it allows you to buy/trial subscriptions to Microsoft Online
products and/or services.
MOSP (2) Microsoft Online Subscription Programme
A subscription based volume licensing programme for
organisations with more than 5 users who want to subscribe
to Office 365.
MOSPA Microsoft Online Services Partner Agreement
An agreement that needs to be signed by partners wishing to
join the Microsoft Cloud Essentials programme.
MOSS Microsoft Office SharePoint Server
A collaboration and productivity platform that enables
organisations to set up websites, manage documents, develop
and publish reports - to collaborate internally and externally
for maximum productivity.
MOSS FIS Microsoft Office SharePoint For Internet Sites
MOSS FIS refers to the use of Microsoft SharePoint Server to
write, deploy and manage internet sites.
MPAAC Microsoft Partner Alliance Architects Council
A group of senior architects from EPG partners that meet 3
times a year to discuss Microsoft trends and provide feedback
to Microsoft Corp on selling and deployment issues.
MPC Minimum Purchase Criteria
MPN Microsoft Partner Network
A membership network that provides benefits and support
for companies to engage and build a business to sell and/or
deploy Microsoft technologies.
MPSA Microsoft Products & Services Agreement
A single agreement for all on-premise software and online
services purchased by an organisation.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
42

45. MPSP Microsoft Preferred Supplier Programme
An internal Microsoft programme designed to reduce costs to
its business from dealing with multiple suppliers and to make
it easier for preferred suppliers to do business with Microsoft.
MPT Microsoft Presentation Team
Was a group managed by the Partner Readiness Team who
delivered sales and licensing training to partners on Microsoft
technologies. No longer in operation.
MRM Microsoft Relationship Management
A programme that outlines the ways in which Microsoft wants
to improve the relationship it has with its customers and
partners.
MS Microsoft Corporation
MS CRM Microsoft Customer Relationship Management
Microsoft’s Customer Relationship Management software
solution.
MSA (1) Microsoft System Architecture
MSA (2) Master Service Agreement
Dominating services agreement within an organisation.
MSAA Microsoft Active Accessibility
Application programming interface (API) for user interface
accessibility.
MSB Microsoft Services Business
Microsoft technical services team.
MSC Microsoft Customer
Someone who buys and uses Microsoft software.
MSCR Microsoft Customer Reports
MSD Microsoft Ship Date
Planned date for a product to be released to the market and
available to buy.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
43

46. MSDN Microsoft Developer Network
The primary resource for developers for all things Microsoft.
It contains training, scripts, best practice, forums and blogs.
MSE Microsoft Service Enterprise
A Microsoft internal tool used to track service requests (SRs) and
provide customer service to internal and external customers.
MSF Microsoft Solutions Framework
A set of models and guidelines for managing IT projects
whether development, deployment or networking. It is based
on rapid iterative development to allow for continuous
learning and refinement of the project.
MSFC Microsoft Fulfilment Centre
Makes keys and downgrade rights available to volume
licensing customers.
MSFT Microsoft
Microsoft Corporation.
MSIB Microsoft Solution for Internet Business
A now extinct set of guidelines for using Commerce Server and
Content Management Server. Replaced today by SharePoint
Server and the Commerce Server component from Ascentium.
MSJ Microsoft System Journal
Microsoft’s first programming publication. Now replaced by
MSDN Magazine.
MSL Microsoft Licence
Refers to purchased rights to use a Microsoft product.
MSLI Microsoft Licensing Inc.
Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Operations centre based in Reno,
Nevada in the US.
MSMQ Microsoft Message Queue Server
A protocol that passes messages reliably between computer
systems.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
44

47. MSN Microsoft Network
MSN.com has moved from being the Hotmail portal to a news
and sports site.
MSO Microsoft Service Offerings
Service offerings to partners and customers such as: Enterprise
strategy Consultants (ESC); Consulting and Premier Services.
MSP (1) Microsoft Product
MSP (2) Microsoft Solution Provider
A partner who works with customers deploying and managing
Microsoft tools and technologies.
MSP (3) Microsoft Student Partner
A programme that helped students get the most out of
Microsoft technologies. Now retired.
MSPP Microsoft Partner Program
Replaced by Microsoft Partner Network (MPN).
MSSE Microsoft Solution for Supplier Enablement
An older set of tools and best practices. Replaced by
Dynamics AX.
MSTV Microsoft Television
Microsoft Windows for set top boxes.
MSW Microsoft Web
The internal Microsoft global intranet.
MTA Microsoft Technology Associate
The entry level IT certification to demonstrate knowledge of
basic concepts.
MTB Microsoft Technical Briefing
An annual technical briefing for Microsoft staff. Replaced by
two briefings a year held in Redmond.
MTC Microsoft Technology Centre
A facility on-site at Microsoft that runs envisioning sessions,
workshops and proof of concepts for customers and partners.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
45

48. MTS Microsoft Transaction Server
Provides development tools and run-time services for
building high-performance scalable transaction applications.
Features of MTS are now part of the .Net platform.
MTV Manufacturing Turnkey Vendor
Manufactures Microsoft products following the turnkey
manufacturing model.
MUI Multilingual User Interfaces
Enables a user to select their preferred language to be
displayed. MUI packs are available for a number of Microsoft
technologies including Windows and Office.
MVLP Microsoft Variable Licence Pack
MVLPC Microsoft Volume Licensing Partner Center
An online portal that provides Microsoft users a
comprehensive view of their licensing agreement in one
location.
MVP Most Valued Professional
Awarded to independent community leaders who have
shown their commitment to sharing their expertise and
knowledge with others.
MYR Mid-Year Review
Held in January of each year it is a mandatory, formal, review
by Microsoft Corp of each countries’ achievements to date as
well as remediation plans. It also helps frame the discussion
that will become the goals/targets for the following year.
N
NAV Navision
Now called Microsoft Dynamics NAV - provides
comprehensive core business management functionality
across sales, marketing, financials, supply chain etc.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
46

49. NDA Non-Disclosure Agreement
A signed agreement between Microsoft and other parties
(customers or partners) that they will not disclose information
about each other’s businesses.
NFD Not for Distribution
NFR Not for Resale
This means that the licence can only be used by the individual
who received the software from Microsoft and cannot be resold.
NGSC Next Generation Supply Chain
A joint project with Infosys to build a supply chain centre of
excellence.
NGVL Next Generation of Volume Licensing
An online portal that provides information to both Microsoft
customers and partners around volume licensing agreements.
NIMM NHS Infrastructure Maturity Model
A maturity assessment framework that provides guidance to
National Health Service Trusts to understand the capabilities
they require and the processes to deploy them.
NLB Network Load Balancing
Enhances the scalability and availability of server applications
by helping to spread the load over a number of servers to keep
up with increasing demands from internet-based clients.
NMP Non-Managed Partner
Partners that are in the Microsoft Partner Network Programme
(MPN) but who have not been assigned a field (PAM) or
telephone partner account (TPAM) manager.
NPS Net Promoter Score
A measure of customer satisfaction. It asks customers how
likely they would be to refer a friend to a particular company.
NSI National System Integrator Programme
A US programme where Microsoft is engaging deeply with a
select number of SIs (not the global partners) and is working
with them to become recognised national SI partners.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
47

50. O
O365 Office 365
Microsoft’s online suite of Office and productivity tools
including email, calendaring, web conferencing, file sharing
and Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote. It is paid for by
subscription (per user per month) with no need to install
anything on a local server.
OA Office Administrator
OAK OEM Adaption Kit
A support kit for Windows CE - no longer available.
OBC Onboarding Centre
Free support to help new Office 365 customers migrate to
Exchange Online.
OCG Office Communicator Group
No longer available. Replaced by technologies in Microsoft Lync.
OCR Optical Character Recognition
Technology to covert a scanned image into text that can then
be processed by e.g. Word or Excel.
OCS Office Communications Server
Product that provided Unified Communications capabilities.
Now replaced by Microsoft Lync.
ODK OEM Distribution Kit
See OPK.
ODS Optimised Desktop Specialist
A job title used for a pre-sales support person for desktop
virtualisation scenarios within Microsoft’s Specialist Team Unit
(STU) in the Enterprise & Partner Group (EPG).
OED OEM Embedded Devices
OEI OEM End Item
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
48

51. OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer
A company that produces its own hardware and can install
Microsoft software on the device before it is sold.
OF Out of Facility
OGA Office Genuine Advantage
A process to reduce piracy by validating licenses of Office
before non-critical updates could be downloaded. Now retired.
OHI Organisational Health Index
A McKinsey defined process used within Microsoft. Measures
and tracks elements of organisational effectiveness directly
related to financial and operational performance and offers
actionable insights into areas of improvement. Provides hard
measures for “soft” issues.
OLA Open Licence Agreement
A volume licensing programme for small to mid-sized
companies that have fewer than 250 desktops.
OLC OEM Licensable
A product that can legally be licensed by an OEM.
OLE Object Linking and Embedding
A Microsoft technology that allows applications to export and
share parts of a document.
OLP Open Licensing Programme
A licensing programme suited for dynamics, growing
organisations that want a pay as you go arrangement.
OLPG Open Licensing Program for Government
A Volume Licensing program for small to mid-sized Government
organisations that have fewer than 250 desktop PCs.
OLS Online Services
Online services - see Office 365.
OLSET Online Services Extended Terms (form)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
49

52. OLSUR Online Services Use Rights
The terms that apply to the use of a given online service.
OM Order Management
OMA Outlook Mobile Access
OMA allows access from smart phones to email on a
Microsoft Exchange server.
OMG Operations Management Group
OMS Operations Management Suite
An IT management solution for the era of the cloud; SaaS for
IT professionals.
OOBE Out of Box Experience
Customer experience with a product as it comes out of the
box.
OOO Out of Office
OPK (1) OEM Pre-Installation Kit
A set of tools and best practices to assist OEMs to install
Windows 7 and Windows Server onto the hardware they
are selling.
OPK (2) Open Product Key
A means to unlock a product key.
OPM Operations Product Manager
ORPC Office Ready PC
Buying a PC with Office pre-installed.
ORW Online Registration Wizard
A program that takes people step by step through an online
sign-up process.
OSL Open Subscription Licence
A subscription based Volume Licensing programme for small
to mid-sized organisations that have fewer than 250 desktop
PCs.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
50

53. OWA Outlook Web Access
A means to access your Microsoft Exchange email and
calendars through a web browser.
P
P&L Profit and Loss
A financial term for recording what is usually a business’
profitability at the current time.
P2P Partner to Partner
A means of working, engaging, communicating or transacting
between business partners.
P3 Preferred Partner Programme
See MPSP.
PA Planning Advisor
An individual specifically skilled in providing high quality
planning consultancy and advice.
PAAS Platform as a Service
A way to develop and deliver applications in the cloud.
PAC Partner Advisory Council
In order to understand the views of partners, Microsoft runs
a series of advisory councils across different technologies to
get feedback.
PAM Partner Account Manager
An account manager responsible for managing the relationship
with a number of partners. Their role is to help develop the
partner’s Microsoft practice in order to grow revenue, build
a Partner Business Plan (PBP), agree targets, help manage
pipeline through PSX (Partner Sales Exchange) and close
opportunities. PAM’s can be field or telephone-based, although
telephone-based PAM’s are commonly known as TPAM’s.
PASS Professional Association for SQL Server
An independent association to promote, educate and support
the SQL Server Community.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
51

54. PBP Partner Business Plan
A high level business plan agreed between a partner and its
PAM and designed to set the framework for the partnership
over a 1-3 year period.
PCMM Partner Channel Marketing Manager
The PCMM is responsible for Thru-Partner Marketing (TPM).
This role helps partners develop their marketing capacity for
Thru-Partner Marketing and pre-sales capacity and capability.
PD Product Director
Generally the person that has full responsibility for a
particular product.
PDC Professional Developers Conference
An annual event for software developers where new
technological ideas are launched.
PDDP Partner Digital Download Portal
PDP Personal Development Plan
In Microsoft each FTE is required to build a personal
development plan in conjunction with their manager which is
then regularly reviewed.
PDT Product Definition Tool
Used to document and describe what a specific product is
designed to do or deliver.
PDW Parallel Data Warehouse
A parallel data warehouse that is able to handle huge volumes
of data for mission critical applications.
PEP Partner Evidence Programme
When a partner joins MPN and gains a competency they need to
provide customer evidence of their capabilities and experience.
PES Partner Executive Summit
Held annually around the world to engage executives from
Microsoft and selected partners.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
52

55. PF Public Folder
A folder on a local Windows PC that is set for sharing or a
folder setup on Microsoft Exchange that users can share
access to.
PFE Premier Field Engineer
A person available to solve customer and partner issues if the
customer has a Premier Agreement with Microsoft Services
for support.
PG Product group
For each Microsoft product there is a product group responsible
for designing, developing and marketing the product.
PGO Partner Generated Opportunity
Opportunities shared with Microsoft by one of their Partners
through the Partner Sales Exchange (PSX) tool.
PI Product Information group
Refer to Product Group (PG).
PIC Product Information Coordinators
Role within Microsoft for people assigned to collect and
circulate information to the relevant teams or groups.
PIPC Pre-Installed PC
PCs sold with Windows and Office pre-installed.
PKC Product Key Card
An alternative way to purchase Microsoft Office 2010 with a
new PC. The keycard can be used to activate the pre-loaded
Office software.
PLC Partner Learning Centre
Provides MPN partners with access to sales, technical and
licensing training on Microsoft technologies.
PLX Partner Learning Experience
The individual partners’ experience when researching,
selecting or taking part in training.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
53

56. PM (1) Product Manager
An individual that owns a product (usually defined by country)
and has overall responsibility for achieving targets for sales, or
deployment. May or may not own marketing budget to drive
specific metrics.
PM (2) Product Marketer / Product Marketing Manager
The person whose role it is to support the Product Manager in
successfully marketing the specific product.
PM (3) Programme Manager
Someone who owns a programme or initiative that is usually
specific to a market sector, partner group or solution area
(as opposed to a product).
PM (4) Project Manager
Owns a project - is accountable, manages budget and ensures
delivery timescales are met.
PMC Partner Marketing Center
Part of the Microsoft Partner Network portal where you can
access campaign materials and marketing resources.
PMCT Product Management Configuration Tool
Tool to assist Project Managers and enable them to
effectively manage projects.
PMM Product Marketing Manager
See PM (2).
PMOLP Print MOLP
Hard copy of a Microsoft Open License Program contract.
PN Part Number
PNE Partner Network Expert
Someone within Microsoft who is an expert on the Microsoft
Partner Network (MPN) and can provide advice, guidance
and answer questions for partners on how to maximise an
investment in MPN.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
54

57. PO Purchase order
The number assigned to a formal placement of an order -
records financial commitment to pay.
POE Proof of Execution
Final version of assets created using Microsoft funding.
POL Proof of Licence
A document that must be kept up to date to show that an
appropriate, legal licensing agreement is in place for all
software used by a business.
POM Platform Optimisation Management
Methodology to ensure a business is maximising its use of the
Microsoft platform.
POP Point of Purchase
The point at which something is actually bought (see also POS).
POR Partner of Record
Customer to designate a partner as the partner of record for
cloud solutions.
POS Point of Sale
The point at which something is actually bought (see also POP).
Often refers to marketing materials used here.
POTY Partner of the Year (refers to WPC Awards
programme)
Winner of a Microsoft WPC Award in a designated category for
service excellence.
PPC (1) Pocket Personal Computer
A portable, handheld computer for use on the move.
PPC (2) Pay Per Click
Internet advertising model used to direct traffics to websites,
where you pay when the advert is clicked on.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
55

58. PPIM Pricing and Product Information Management
Process of utilising technology to centrally manage product
and pricing data to create optimal combinations for multiple
distribution channels.
PPR Partner Practice Recruiter
The PPR owns the practice development process and holds
full accountability for the revenue generation to cover the
cloud gap.
PRISM PRIority Setting Meeting
A meeting of Microsoft’s senior vice presidents to share
priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. Also called Priorities
Sharing Meeting.
PRP Partner Research Panel
A group of partners who are brought together to
independently research and provide feedback on a specific
product, solution, initiative or concept.
PS&P Partner Strategy and Programmes
A group within Microsoft SMS&P who manage partner
marketing, readiness and MPN activities.
PSA (1) Platform Strategy Advisor
A person that can give direction and contribution to a business
strategy in relation to use of the technology platform.
PSA (2) Public Sector Agreement
A three year licensing framework agreement signed between
the Government Procurement Service and Microsoft. (PSA12)
PSAT Partner Satisfaction
The way by which partners satisfaction and confidence in its
business partners is measured.
PSC Partner Strategy Consultant
A Microsoft Services engagement with a partner to help
develop a practice and respond to bids. Also see ESC.
PSE Partner Sales Executive
A sales representative that is employed by a business
recognised and accredited by Microsoft.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
56

59. PSG Partner Sales Group
A group within Microsoft that is assigned targets to achieve
business or revenue metrics for a sector, group of companies,
product or solution area.
PSL Preferred Suppliers List
A comprehensive list of recognised and trusted suppliers.
PSM Partner Segment Manager
An individual that owns a customer or market segment
(usually defined by country) and has overall responsibility for
achieving targets for sales, or deployment. May or may not
own marketing budget to drive specific metrics.
PSP (1) Partner Solutions Plan
A 1 Year plan, focused on a technology / discipline developed
by managed partners and their PAMs to drive and track
growth plans, targets, opportunities and capacity/capability
requirements. These are complementary to the PBP.
PSP (2) Public Sector Partner
A partner that is recognised as only transacting business within
the Public Sector.
PSR Personnel Status Record
Relates to HR information for an individual employee.
PSRI Partner Skills Readiness Index
The KPI used to measure the training participated in by
partners each year. In FY12 PSRI measured the number
of people trained (online and in class). In FY13 PSRI will be
measured by the number of partner individuals who take the
sales assessment accreditation exams.
PSSM Partner Segment Strategy Manager
A person responsible for a product’s joint partner marketing
activity and the partner capacity/capability discussions around
the product.
PSSP Partner Solution Sales Professional
A person who is employed by a Microsoft Partner, who’s key
responsibility is to Microsoft and Partner solutions.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
57

60. PSX Partner Sales Exchange
For partners to benefit from the Sales Incentive Programme (SIP)
they must enter their pipeline/opportunities into the PSX tool for
tracking. PSX is a Microsoft/partner joint sales pipeline tool.
PTA Partner Technology Advisor
Works with PAM’s in SMS&P to help partners develop their
practices, identify readiness needs and close opportunities.
PTS Partner Technology Strategist
The PTS owns the capability and technology enablement of
these targeted practices for Corporate Account partners.
PTU Partner Team Unit
A group of PAM’s in the Enterprise and Partner Group (EPG)
who manage global partners.
PUP Product upgrade
Latest version.
PUR (1) Product Upgrade Advantage
See Software Assurance (SA).
PUR (2) Product Usage Rights
Determines how the software should be licensed for use.
PV Product Viewer
Provides a means for people who do not have Office
programmes to see a document. The viewers can be
downloaded.

A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
58

61. Q
Q&A Questions and Answers
QA Quality Assurance
A process to ensure quality is achieved.
QBR Quarterly Business Review
A meeting to review performance against targets and identify
any remedial actions required.
QFE Quick Fix Engineering
An individual service update for a Microsoft application.
QFE’s can be grouped together into a service pack.
R
RA Return Authorisation
The process of granting permission for the return, refund,
replacement or repair of a product that is protected by a
warranty period.
RADIUS Remote Authentication Dial-in User Service
A network protocol that enables remote computers to
authenticate to a network.
RAMP Readiness Asset Matrix Project
A table that represents how intravening factors contribute
towards a particular assets appropriateness of use for a given
task.
RAS Remote Access Services
Enables you to securely access a corporate network from a
remote location.
RC Release Candidate
A beta version with potential to be a final product, which is
ready to release unless significant bugs appear.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
59

62. RDP Rapid Deployment Programme
Allows customers and partners to engage with Microsoft and
to experience a technology before release. Customers/partners
are nominated by their account managers. See also TAP.
RDS Remote Desktop Services
A component of the Microsoft Windows Server operating
systems that delivers, via terminal emulation, the Windows
desktop and Windows based applications to a wide variety of
datacenter assets.
REST Representational State Transfer
Technique for getting information from a website to use in an
application.
RFI Request for Information
A customer’s request to a vendor for an overview of their
solutions.
RFP Request for Proposal
A customer’s request to a vendor for a costed proposal for a
solution.
RMA Return Merchandise Authorisation
The process of granting permission for the return, refund,
replacement or repair of merchandise that is protected by a
warranty period.
RMS (1) Retail Manufacturing and Services
An industry focused sales business in the EPG Account team
Unit (ATO).
RMS (2) Rights Management Services
A Microsoft technology designed to help enterprise customers
control and protect critical digital information by offering
easy-to-use, flexible, and persistent policy expression and
enforcement.
ROC Regional Operating Center
See Regional Service Center (RSC).
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
60

63. ROI Return on Investment
The yield of benefit derived by an investor, which compares
the investment gains in terms of costs.
ROK Reseller Option Kit
Means that the reseller will provide the customer a
server with Windows server pre-installed using the ROK from
the distributor.
ROM (1) Rough Order of Magnitude
General assessment of the size or shape of something.
ROM (2) Regional Office Manager
A person assigned responsibility for a regional office.
ROM (3) Read Only Memory
A class of storage memory used in electronic devices that is
difficult to modify, and is therefore predominantly used in
firmware that is unlikely to require frequent updating.
ROPS Retail Operations Specialist
An employee that holds expertise in the management of retail
business operations.
ROW Rest of World
Everywhere in the world apart from a specific region i.e.
outside the US, EMEA, CEE, APAC and LATAM.
RPEM Regional Partner Engagement Manager
A Microsoft employee who is responsible for liaising and
communicating with Microsoft Partner businesses within a
designated geographical location.
RRAS Routing and Remote Access Service
Superseded by newer RAS technologies in Windows Server
2008/2012.
RSC Regional Service Centre
A telephone and email based service funded by Microsoft
that provides support for all queries from partners.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
61

64. RSM (1) Release Services Manager
The individual responsible for making the release decision on
new software.
RSM (2) Retail Sales and Marketing
Term used for describing the marketing and sales of the retail
group within Microsoft.
RSOP Resultant Set of Policy
Group Policy settings can be linked to sites, domains,
and organisational units.
RSP Retail Sales Professional
A Microsoft sales individual engaged with retail partners.
RTM Release to Manufacturing
Occurs when the new software product is signed off and
released as completed so it can now be made available to
customers. Also called ‘going Gold’.
RTW Release to Web
Occurs when the new software product is signed off and
released as completed so it can now be made available to
customers via the web. Also called ‘going Gold’.
S
S+S Software Plus Services
A combination of hosted software together with locally running
software and forms the basis of Microsoft cloud technologies.
SA Software Assurance
A form of maintenance programme. Customers who purchase
volume licences can also purchase SA which provides them
with a number of benefits including consultancy days, training
vouchers, upgrade rights, access to deployment tools etc.
SAAS Software as a Service
Software deployed as a hosted service and accessed through
the internet.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
62

65. SAB Software Assurance Benefits
The functionality that businesses can experience by utilising
tools and resources to maximise volume licensing agreements.
SAFE Signature Authorisation for Expenditures
The limits that a manager has in signing purchase orders,
expense claims etc.
SAL (1) Server Access Licence
Servers have their own licence and users must have a CAL to
access the server.
SAL (2) Subscriber Access Licence
When the application is hosted a Subscriber Access Licence
is required for each unique individual user or device that is
authorised to access the licensed products.
SAM (1) Software Asset Management
A best practice incorporating a set of proven processes and
procedures for managing and optimising your organisation’s
ownership of software assets.
SAM (2) Select Agreement Membership
A type of licensing available from Microsoft especially relevant
to midsize and large organisations. It allows the user to have a
single contract and to also benefit from Software Assurance (SA).
SATA Serial Advanced Technology Attachments
A type of interface used to connect hard drives to computers.
SAW Segment Alignment Workshop
Held in Microsoft at planning time (April - June) when segments
(EPG/SMSP etc.) engage with the business groups
to identify the following years priorities.
SBA Survivable Branch Appliance
A device used to increase the resiliency of communications/
VOIP in branch networks. Microsoft UC partners will provide
a configured device to support Lync deployments to ensure
high availability.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
63

66. SBS Small Business Server
An integrated server suite running Windows Server 2008,
Exchange, IIS, SharePoint and SQL. Now retired.
SBSC Small Business Server Community
A group of partners who are primarily unmanaged that sell
SBS as one of their main solutions.
SCCM System Center Configuration Manager
A technology that helps customers deploy Operating Systems,
applications and updates efficiently without having to visit
each PC. It is now a component of System Center 2012.
SCDM Solution Channel Development Manager
An individual in the SMS&P group who is focused on increasing
the number of partners delivering solutions. They will work
with existing partners to grow their business and with compete
partners to engage them with Microsoft.
SCDPM System Center Data Protection Manager
Provides data protection and backup facilities for
Microsoft servers.
SCE Server & Cloud Enrolment
A licensing vehicle that enables businesses to standardise on
one or more Microsoft Server and Cloud technologies.
SCO System Center Orchestrator
Provides a workflow management tool for the data centre.
It lets you develop automation scripts to create, monitor and
deploy resources.
SCOM System Center Operations Manager
A data centre management tool that allows you to monitor the
health and performance of the computer infrastructure. It is
also cross platform and can be used with Linux and other 3rd
party technologies.
SCSM System Center Service Manager
A help desk support solution that is integrated into the other
parts of System Center. This means that when SCOM identifies
an issue it can be raised in service manager to be dealt with.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
64

67. SCVMM System Center Virtual Machine Manager
Designed to manage large numbers of virtual servers including
virtual servers from other vendors.
SDK Software Development Kit
A set of development tools that allows a developer to create
applications for a particular software package.
SDPS SharePoint Deployment Planning Services
A paid consultancy offering that can be delivered by partners,
for Microsoft, to customers who have Software Assurance.
Customers are able to benefit from the skills of a defined
group of partners to deploy SharePoint solutions, and reclaim
the fees from Microsoft.
SE (1) System Engineer
Responsible for architecting, designing, and installing Windows
Server solutions. Not frequently used for Microsoft personnel
anymore.
SE (2) Services Executive
Responsible for the sale of Microsoft services consultancy
and support (premier agreements) to customers and partners.
SEA Southeast Asia
SEO Search Engine Optimisation
Technique used to improve the visibility of a website in
search results.
SESP Subscription Enrolment for Schools Pilot
A licence programme available for UK schools.
SFB Skype for Business
Unified communications tool used to be called Lync.
SFC System File Checker
Utility in versions of Windows to check for system file
corruptions. In Windows 7 the process changed to using
access control lists (ACL).
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
65

68. SI Systems Integrator
A company that integrates different IT components to deliver
a solution to a customer e.g. Installation and configuring of a
network or application or the setup of a messaging system.
SIG Special Interest Group
A technical community with a common technical interest.
SIP (1) Solution Incentives Program
Rewards Microsoft partners with incentives when they
influence the sale of specific Microsoft solutions.
SIP (2) Session Initiation Protocol
A protocol that is used to manage voice and video
communications over the internet.
SKU Stock Keeping Unit
A code that identifies different versions of the software.
SLA Service Level Agreement
Specified and documented terms and conditions for work to
be delivered.
SLO Service Line Offering
A services offering available from Microsoft Services.
SLT Software License Terms
The terms per the agreement signed or in the box of software
(e.g. EULA).
SMB Small & Medium-sized Business
Used to describe a group of companies that are between
50 and 1,000 employees.
SMB&D Small & Mid Market Business and Distributors
Organisations who provide and distribute goods and services
with revenues generally between $10 million and $1 billion
per year.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
66

69. SME (1) Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
Used to describe a group of companies that are between
50 and 1,000 employees but would include organisations that
are classed as Enterprise business due to generated revenues,
global presence etc.
SME (2) Subject Matter Expert
A specialist on a particular topic.
SMORG Small and Medium Organisation
Used to describe a group of companies that are between
50 and 1,000 employees.
SMS&P Small and Midmarket Solutions and Partners
The segment in Microsoft that looks after small, medium
and corporate customers along with all partner activity and
anti piracy.
SMSD Server Management Suite Datacentre
Now superseded by System Center 2012.
SMSE Server Management Suite Enterprise
Now superseded. It was a licence which brought together the
key management technologies.
SMSG Sales Marketing Services Group
The overall Microsoft group in Redmond that the Sales,
Marketing and Services groups report into.
SNAFU Situation Normal All Fouled Up
Meaning “This has all gone wrong as usual”.
SOA Software Oriented Architecture
A set of principles for developing software that uses reusable
components.
SOAP Simple Object Access Protocol
An XML protocol for distributed systems to exchange
information.
SOM Software (Asset Management) Optimisation Model
A model developed to help customers manage their SAM
engagement more effectively.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
67

70. SOW Statement of Work
Written description of agreed work between two parties.
SP (1) Service Pack
An update to an application containing fixes and new
functionality.
SP (2) SharePoint (not an official acronym but often used)
Refers to the Microsoft product SharePoint Portal Server.
SP (3) Stored Procedure
A routine in a database application that can be called to do
an action.
SPA Solution Provider Agreement
Gives partners the rights to place orders with Microsoft
Regional Operations Centre for ERP and CRM licences.
SPAG Special Agreements Licensing
Licensing arrangements that differ from typical agreements
due to scenario specific circumstances.
SPC SharePoint Conference
Conference for all SharePoint users / developers.
SPD SharePoint Designer
An HTML editor to allow the design and customisation of
SharePoint websites. (See also Microsoft Expression Web).
SPEC Specification
How something is defined by a given brief or set of
requirements.
SPK Secure Product Key
Product key that has restricted access.
SPLA Service Providers Licensing Agreement
A licence type is for hosters and ISVs to be able to license the
latest Microsoft software to provide software services and
hosted applications to their customers.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
68

71. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
69
SPLAR Services Provider Licence Agreement Reseller
See SPLA - a SPLAR is a business that is authorised to transact.
SPOC Single Point of Contact
Designated person who manages all communication.
SPPS SharePoint Portal Server
Designed to provide web and collaborative functionality
for organisations. Supports intranet portals, document and
file management, collaboration, social networks, extranets,
websites, enterprise search and business intelligence. It is
integrated into the Microsoft Office Suite.
SPR South Pacific Region
SPS SharePoint Portal Service
See SPPS.
SPUR Software Provider Usage Rights
Rights by which software can be used.
SPV Sound Pictures Video
SQL (1) Structured Query Language
The format of a database query on a relational database.
SQL (2) SQL Server
Microsoft’s relational database management system.
SR Service Request
Request for support or service.
SS Sales Specialist
Someone who has or displays expertise in a particular product
or solution.
SSAS SQL Server Analysis Services
Provides online analytical process (OLAP) and data mining
functionality for business intelligence applications.
SSIS SQL Server Integration Services
You can use the integration services to develop new data
solutions.

72. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
70
SSL Secure Sockets Layer
A method of encrypting data sent over the internet.
SSO Single Sign On
The ability to sign on once to gain access to all systems and not
be prompted by other applications for you to log on.
SSP (1) Shared Service Provider
Services in SharePoint that are shared by many users and can
now be configured by the IT department. The services include
search, indexing, profiles etc.
SSP (2) Solution Sales Professional
A Microsoft overlay sales specialist who supports the ATU and
enterprise customers in EPG. Each SSP is focused on particular
technologies.
SSRS SQL Server Reporting Services
Allows you to generate customisable reports from the
SQL database.
SSS Secure Store Service
Stores how your access credentials to a 3rd party can be used.
STC Search Technology Centre
Microsoft office specific to Search technologies.
STCA Search Technology Centre Asia
Microsoft office specific to Search technologies, based in Asia.
STS SharePoint Team Services
Implemented in earlier versions of SharePoint. It is now
SharePoint Foundation 2010.
STU Specialists Team Unit
A specialist team in EPG that provides an overlay team of Sales
Specialists (SSP) and pre-sales Technical Specialists (TSP).
SWOT Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats
A business or project evaluation matrix.

73. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
71
T
TAM Technical Account Manager
Customers who have signed Premier Agreements for support
from Microsoft services have a Technical Account Manager as
a point of contact for their engagement.
TAP Technical Adoption Program
Allows customers and partners to engage with Microsoft
and to experience a technology before release. Customers/
partners are nominated by their account managers.
See also RDP.
TBC To Be Confirmed
TBD (1) To Be Decided
TBD (2) To Be Determined
TBH To Be Hired
TBQ To Be Qualified
TCP Transmission Control Protocol
The protocol that ensures reliable delivery of data from one
machine to another.
TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol - Internet Protocol
The communication language of the internet.
TDM Technical Decision Maker
TFA Two-factor authentication
A process for verifying someone or something’s identity that
requires two forms of authentication. For example, both a
credit card and a personal identification number are needed to
access funds through an automated teller machine.
TFS Team Foundation Server
Enables developers to collaborate more effectively during the
software lifecycle in developing software.

74. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
72
TLA (1) Temporary Licence Agreement
Licensing agreement not yet permanently agreed or
confirmed.
TLA (2) Three Letter Acronym/Abbreviation
An acronym is an abbreviation used as a word in it is own right.
Otherwise it is just an abbreviation.
TMG (Forefront) Threat Management Gateway
(was ISA Server)
A secure web gateway that provides comprehensive protection
against web based threats.
TOC Table of Contents
List of what is included in a document and on what page it can
be found.
TPAM Tele-Partner Account Manager
An account manager who manages a selection of partners by
telephone.
TPAS Tele-Partner Account Specialist
A Microsoft employee who is responsible for managing
relationships between Microsoft and Partner businesses,
predominantly using a telephone based engagement strategy.
TPM Through Partner Marketing
Work with partners and their PAMs to develop joint marketing
propositions to customers, often supporting with funds and
incentives.
TSP (1) Technology Solutions Professional
Provides technical pre-sales support to EPG and corporate
customers.
TSP (2) Technical Sales Specialist
A sales overlay role that delivers pre-sales technical support.
TSS Technology Solution Specialist
An individual with expertise in a given technology area.

75. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
73
TTL Time To Live
Countdown until a product goes live and is in market.
TTT Train the Trainer
Provision of training to trainers who will be delivering the
content to others.
TVP Thames Valley Park
Microsoft UK’s main office in Reading.
U
UA (1) Upgrade Advantage
A discontinued programme for software upgrades within
a licence agreement. Now absorbed within the Software
Assurance programme.
UA (2) User Assistance
UAC User Account Control
A feature in Windows 7 that dims the screen and asks the user
for permission to run an application.
UAG Unified Access Gateway
A Microsoft Forefront solution that provides secure remote
access to corporate networks for remote employees and
partners.
UAT User Acceptance Testing
A process to confirm that the solution meets the requirements
of the users.
UC Unified Communications
The integration of real time communication services (IM,
presence, IP telephony, video conferencing) with voicemail,
email and fax.
UC&C Unified Communications and Collaboration
Integrating UC tools into collaboration software such as
‘presence’ in SharePoint.

76. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
74
UCD User Centric Design
A process where the website’s content, design and usability are
all created specifically for the target audiences needs.
UE User Education
UEA Updated Enterprise Agreement
An amendment to the customer’s Enterprise Agreement (EA)
to take account of changes in licensing and technology e.g.
Office 365 update to EA.
UE-V User Experience Virtualisation
An enterprise scale virtualisation solution that delivers a user’s
personal Windows experience across multiple devices.
UI User Interface
The layer between the application/technology and the user.
UMM Upper Mid-Market
Customer segment of 500 seats and above.
UPC Universal Product Code
Barcode.
UPG Upgrade
Moving to the next SKU level of a product or to a new release
of a product.
URT Universal Run Time
An environment where applications can be ported to various
hardware/OS environments without the program knowing
the difference.
USB Universal Serial Bus
A standard for connecting hardware to computers.
USFL Indianapolis warehouse for MS
USMT User State Migration Tool
This tool allows user profiles and data to be migrated easily
from Windows XP/Vista to Windows 7. Very useful in large
migrations.

77. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
75
USOC United States Operations Centre
UX User Experience
A Microsoft discipline that involves researching and designing
useful, usable, desirable, and feasible interactions for
Microsoft products, platforms and services to increase end-
user and customer satisfaction.
UXE User Experience Evangelist
A person engaged in the product team helping to develop rich,
immersive and compelling end-user experiences.
V
VA Volume Activation
The process of distributing volume licences automatically to
client PCs and servers. See VAMT and VLSC.
VAD Value Added Distributor
Seen by Microsoft as a co-manager of the channel - the VAD
helps Microsoft develop and on-board new partners and
create demand through the VAR channel.
VAM Vendor Account Manager
VAMT Volume Activation Management Tool
Allows IT staff to automate and centrally manage the volume
activation process of distributing licence keys to all the PCs on
the network.
VAR Value Added Reseller
A business that offers consultancy and deployment services
alongside the sale of software licences and hardware.
VB Visual Basic
Programming language that comes with Visual Studio.

78. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
76
VDA Virtual Desktop Access
Provides users with access to virtualised corporate desktop
images hosted on remote servers from a variety of devices
including thin clients, PCs without Software Assurance, home
PCs, third party devices such as contractor PCs, etc.
VDI Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
Provides an infrastructure to have a virtual client which is
stored on a server and distributed to whatever remote device
is connected.
VE Virtual Earth
Microsoft’s free web maps server which offers maps, satellite
imagery etc. and is available through Microsoft Live online
services. Now Bing Maps.
VHD Virtual Hard Disk
A file format which represents a virtual hard disc drive.
VL Volume Licensing
A means to license your Microsoft software if you have an
organisation with five or more desktops.
VLO Volume Licensing Operations
VLSC Volume Licensing Service Centre
Gives volume licence customers access to licensing
information, product keys and status of their enrolment.
VM (1) Virtual Machine
Software that behaves just like a physical disc with the
Operating System and application running in the software.
A number of VMs can be run on one machine.
VM (2) Voicemail
VPN Virtual Private Network
The extension of a private network that encompasses
encapsulated, encrypted, and authenticated links across
shared or public networks. VPN connections typically provide
remote access and router-to-router connections to private
networks over the Internet.

79. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
77
VSTO Visual Studio Tools for Office
Developer tools in Visual Studio can be used to extend Office
2010 and create new Office applications.
VSTS Visual Studio Team System
A system which helped developers manage their code and
projects. Is now part of Visual Studio 2010.
VUP Version Upgrade
W
WAAD Windows Azure Active Directory
Now referred to as Microsoft Azure Active Directory.
WAH Working at Home
See also WFH.
WAIK Windows Automated Install Kit
Component of the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit and is a
collection of tools to help deploy Operating System images
onto computers or virtual drives.
WBEM Web-Based Enterprise Management
A set of tools based on internet and open standards that allow
management data to be shared and displayed.
WBT Windows Based Terminal
A PC running a Windows Operating System but where the
applications are being run on a server.
WCM Web Content Management
Used to describe the content managed for a website.
WCMS Web Content Management System
Software that provides tools for website authoring,
collaboration and administration for users including non-
technical users.

80. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
78
WDS Windows Deployment Services
Can be used to set up new computers through a network-
based installation without the IT person having to be physically
present at each computer and without having to install directly
from CD or DVD media.
WEP Wired Equivalent Privacy
The security method used in most wireless networks.
WFH Working from Home
See also WAH.
WGA Windows Genuine Advantage
A process that validates the present installation of Windows
and its licence key against the detected computer hardware
and determines if the software was licensed from Microsoft.
WLAN Wireless Local Area Network
Extending a local area network with a wireless access point to
provide wireless access for users.
WMI Windows Management Instrumentation
Provides a specification which allows management information
to be shared between different management applications.
WOG Worldwide Operating Groups
WOW Worldwide Operating Groups Web
WP Windows Phone
Microsoft’s phone Operating System.
WPC Worldwide Partner Conference
An annual Microsoft conference for Microsoft partners.
Average attendance of 12,000 people. Useful for information
on new technologies and networking.
WPE Windows Phone Expert

81. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
79
WPF Windows Presentation Foundation
Provides developers with a unified programming model for
building rich Windows smart client user experiences that
incorporate UI, media, and documents.
WPGI Worldwide Products Group Ireland
WSS Windows SharePoint Services
Free downloadable collaboration tools that can be installed
on a Windows server. They provide some of the functionality
of SharePoint Server.
WSUS Windows Server Update Services
Enables IT administrators to automatically control the
deployment of the latest Microsoft product updates to
computers that are running the Windows Operating System.
WW Worldwide
WWF World Wide Fulfilment
WWOps Worldwide Operations
WWS (1) Worldwide Sales
WWS (2) Worldwide Services
WWW World Wide Web
WYSIWYG What you see is what you get
X
XAML Extensible Application Mark-up Language
XML Extensible Mark-Up Language

82. A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
80
Y
YAA Yet Another Acronym
YAB Yet Another Bug
Z
ZAW Zero Administration for Windows
Automated deployment of Windows onto client PCs that
doesn’t require each PC to be visited by a technician.

83. Find out more at
www.resourceit.net

84. MICROSOFT ABBREVIATION
DICTIONARY
ResourceiT Consulting Ltd.
22 Campbell Court Office Park,
Bramley, Hants, RG26 5EG
[phone]
[email protected]
@ResourceiT_Ltd
© ResourceiT Consulting Ltd, 2015. All rights reserved. No part of this material
may be reproduced without prior written permission of the copyright owner.