What You Need To Know Before Moving Your
Office 365 Tenant To Another Reseller

Transitioning your Office 365 tenant to a different reseller can be a smart decision that offers financial benefits, enhanced support, and a more suitable service match. Nonetheless, it isn’t just a matter of pressing a button. This transition demands thorough planning, collaboration, and an awareness of the technical and licensing aspects involved. Whether you're unhappy with your existing provider or looking for a partner that aligns more closely with your business objectives, this guide will provide all the essential information you need before initiating the change.


Understanding the Role of a Microsoft Reseller


A Microsoft reseller, often referred to as a Cloud Solution Provider (CSP), serves as a middleman for handling Microsoft licenses, billing, and frequently, customer support. These resellers can be categorized into Tier 1 (direct providers) and Tier 2 (indirect providers through distributors). The choice of reseller can significantly affect your costs, the quality of service received, and the degree of management you maintain over your Microsoft 365 setup.


What a Reseller Can (and Can’t) Do

It's crucial to recognize that your reseller does not possess ownership of your tenant. They have only been granted administrative rights and oversee licensing. Your data continues to belong to you, and switching resellers won’t alter your tenant domain. Nevertheless, the new Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) will take care of all billing and license management from this point onward.



Reasons You Might Consider Switching Resellers


Companies often contemplate switching their Office 365 resellers for several primary reasons:


  • More competitive pricing or attractive promotions

  • Enhanced support or service options

  • Greater flexibility in billing arrangements

  • Inclusion of additional services such as security or compliance solutions

  • Insufficient assistance from the existing reseller

If your current reseller is not meeting your needs or your business circumstances have changed, making a switch could be beneficial.


Key Considerations Before You Switch


Transitioning to a different Cloud Service Provider (CSP) is generally easy, but there are some important considerations to be aware of. Here are some key points to think about before you start the process:


1. Your Existing Subscription Details

Not every subscription can be transferred without repercussions. Consider the following:


  • License types: Are they offered on a monthly or yearly basis, or are they included in a promotional deal?

  • Contract expiration: Cancelling a subscription before its term may result in fees.

  • Tailored or packaged services: Certain services might not be transferable.

Verify that your new Cloud Service Provider (CSP) provides the same services you currently use or has appropriate substitutes available.


2. Timing the Transition

Transitioning to a new Microsoft reseller can be done without interrupting your services, but it's important to time it wisely to prevent any potential issues. Ideally, you should steer clear of making the change during busy business times or when essential processes are in progress, since even minor administrative modifications can lead to disruptions if not executed carefully. It’s also advisable to synchronize the switch with your existing billing cycle to avoid any overlaps or extra charges. By collaborating with both your current and future resellers, you can ensure a seamless transition that helps maintain operational continuity while effectively managing expenses and minimizing service interruptions.


3. Admin Access and Delegation

During the transition to a new reseller, they will ask for delegated admin access. It’s crucial to:


  • Confirm the individuals who possess global admin privileges in your tenant.

  • Make sure you retain oversight of your environment during the changeover.

  • Remove the previous reseller's admin access once the transfer is complete to ensure security.

4. Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

Different Cloud Service Providers (CSPs) have varying Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Consider the following aspects:


    • Response times for support

    • Processes for escalation

    • Hours during which support is provided

    • Availability around the clock, if required


The CSP Change Process: Step-by-Step


Here's a broad overview of the process for changing your Cloud Solution Provider (CSP):


  • Select a new reseller: Research and find one that meets your needs.

  • Start the transfer process: The new reseller will send you a request to establish a CSP relationship.

  • Approve the request: This allows them to manage and assign your licenses.

  • Acquire new licenses: The new reseller will set up licenses based on their CSP agreement.

  • Transfer licenses: Move your users to the newly acquired licenses.

  • Terminate old licenses: Only after the transition is complete should you cancel the licenses from your previous reseller. Visit www.duocircle.com. for more details.