The Microsoft Small Business Specialist designation shows a focus on the needs of small business and has certification requirements that are  specific to Microsoft Windows Small Business Server. The needs of small businesses are different than those of a large corporation; budget, value, scalability, and backward compatibility are always key concerns.

Although our individual backgrounds are primarily in enterprise information technology, we now serve a market that demands a different focus. That means supporting other small businesses like ours. We will continue to use other versions of Microsoft Windows Server, but for small single-server businesses Small Business Server is a great value when compared to the costs of licensing the components individually.

Microsoft Small Business Server offers a tremendous value for offices of less than 75 employees. A few of these are:

• A fully integrated e-mail and collaboration solution; Microsoft Exchange Server
• A low-configuration Intranet and document management solution in Windows SharePoint
• And, the same centralized core network and file and print services that businesses of all sizes have relied on for years

When you combine these features with the added power of the 64-bit operating system you can realize a gain in performance and productivity.

[The following information was taken from the Microsoft Small Business Server website]

Increase efficiency and reduce cost.

Windows Small Business Server 2008 enables you to run your business more efficiently, with centralized file sharing and printing, e-mail, Internet connectivity, and the ability to create internal Web sites. It helps you and your people to easily share thoughts, ideas, calendars, and experiences, increasing your ability to seize opportunities. And the easy-to-use administrative features of Windows Small Business Server can help you save time and money managing your technology.

Protect your business data.

You can help protect your vital business information from loss using the backup and file recovery features found in Windows Small Business Server 2008. Antivirus and anti-spam protection can help protect your information from malicious attacks, viruses, and spam. And, you can get better control over your business and business information with daily and weekly reports on the health and security of your technology.

Boost team performance and customer service even when you’re not in the office.

The job doesn’t stop when you’re away from your office. Windows Small Business Server 2008 enables you to access your contacts, appointments, and files from any Internet-connected PC or mobile device. And it makes it easier to share, update, and access documents and calendars and participate in discussions with your people, enabling you to be more responsive to your customers, vendors, and suppliers whether you are in the office or on the go.

Microsoft Links

Small Business Server

Windows 7

Microsoft Office

Microsoft TechNet

Microsoft Update