Microsoft has claimed that its revamped Office System suite will boost revenue for resellers and system builders by creating incremental sales of hardware and services.

Office System, which is due for launch in October, will allow desktop and back-office systems to be integrated for the first time, claimed Natalie Johnston, group manager for partner development and marketing at Microsoft.

"We can see benefits for all of our different partners: ISVs, VARs, system builders and those specialising in services," Johnston said.

The product set contains the newest version of Office, along with other updated software, including Publisher, FrontPage, OneNote, Visio, Project and InfoPath. Businesses can buy a licence for each separate product rather than having to pay a set fee for unwanted features.

"Partners have not been keen on Office in the past because it had very narrow margin, but this new suite will allow them to offer a tailored solution and make extra margin through value-add sales," Johnston said.

Microsoft is currently holding a series of roadshows around the UK to ensure partners are up to speed with the technology before it is officially launched.

James Governor, principle analyst at RedMonk, said Microsoft is trying hard to help partners and has made tremendous progress, but shouldn't always try to drive demand for new technology.

"The message Microsoft should give is make more of existing investments. irms don't always need to buy new software," he said.

"Microsoft is always looking for the next huge wave, but I am not sure the economy is aligned to that wave at the moment."

Separately, the vendor has launched a set of initiatives under its Empower Programme to help ISVs develop systems based on Windows Server 2003. Johnston claimed the programme will help ISVs achieve Microsoft Certified Partner status.