Capgemini signs deal with Microsoft

BANGALORE, INDIA: Microsoft Corp. and Capgemini Group have signed a deal, according to which the latter will use its expertise to deploy customer solutions on the former's Windows Azure cloud platform.

Moreover, Capgemini will market and deliver services around Windows Azure, Microsoft's cloud platform, mobilizing Capgemini's full lifecycle capabilities in orchestrating, designing, developing and running cloud-based application services.

Also Read: Journey from .NET to Azure

The plan is to offer Windows Azure solutions across 22 countries, starting with UK, the Netherlands, the United States, Canada, France, Belgium and Brazil.

The companies will advice businesses on how to develop a cohesive, enterprise-class cloud strategy, giving new alternatives to deal with legacy and M&A challenges.

Capgemini will work with Microsoft as an ecosystem coordinator among software providers that have created solutions on the Windows Azure platform for specific markets.

"Capgemini already has a very strong alliance with Microsoft and this further strengthens our relationship. We have a long history of customer collaboration and deep sector specific expertise and Microsoft offers innovative solutions to meet customer needs in the quickly growing domain of the cloud," John Brahim, Deputy CEO, Application Services Europe, Capgemini.

Capgemini and Microsoft will invest in sales, technical training and various marketing activities.

Capgemini will also:

Train 1,500 architects and developers globally on the Windows Azure platform.

Develop a dedicated offshore centre of expertise through building up the Windows Azure. Develop a Center of Excellence in Mumbai, India.

Migrate selected solutions to the Windows Azure platform.

"Our mutual customers will benefit from this joint plan with Capgemini to offer flexible cloud business solutions to customers through the Windows Azure platform," said Doug Hauger, general manager, Windows Azure, Microsoft. "The Windows Azure platform minimizes the need for infrastructure investments. Applications developed on Windows Azure can be deployed rapidly with the reliability and security that's essential for the enterprise."