Unlocking Success: The Importance of AWS Competencies

As an AWS Partner, Metal Toad has launched numerous  projects for our clients using AWS and we have quite a library of case studies about their success. These case studies are excellent but aren’t enough on their own.  To build confidence Metal Toad uses the AWS Competency and Service Delivery Programs to prove that we have deep technical knowledge and experience to successfully launch projects on AWS. 

AWS Competencies improves Metal Toad’s credibility and visibility in the AWS marketplace. These certifications distinguish us from competitors by proving our proficiency in solving complex client challenges using AWS tools and services.

Each competency or service delivery there is a rigorous assessment for a partner to prove they have the expertise around a specific technology, workload,  or industry. There are a few steps to the process, each competency is a little different, but can generally be broken down into 4 steps. 

1. 1. Demonstrate Technical Expertise: AWS partners need to provide evidence of their technical proficiency in the competency. This is done by completing projects using the specified tools and following AWS best practice. Once that's done enter them into the APN portal as a case study.
   2. Application: Fillout and submit the application in the APN Portal. Each one is slightly different so check the APN for the Competency or Service Delivery requirements.
   3. AWS Review: After it’s submitted, a team at AWS will review. If something is missing, they ask some questions and you submit more evidence.
   4. Third-Party Audit: Competencies require a third party audit. This varies depending on the information they’ve been provided but if you keep your application forms handy it is a straightforward process. 

Application:

The application isn’t hard to fill out but can take some time. 

1. 1. Download and complete the self assessment form.Take your time and be as thorough as possible on the answers. 
   2. Ensure you have a solution entered into APN. 
   3. Enter all the case studies into APN. 
   4. The application itself is a form, where you select the Case Studies and Solution, then upload the Assessment and Supporting documents. 

Tip: You can’t change a document once uploaded. I add an uploaded date to the file name of the self assessment, that way if you need to correct an answer it's clear what the most recent version is to everyone. 

In conclusion, achieving AWS Competencies is a vital step for Metal Toad as it continues to differentiate itself in the cloud service market. The rigorous application process ensures that Metal Toad not only meets but exceeds industry standards, showcasing its deep expertise and specialization in AWS solutions. By securing AWS Competencies, Metal Toad strengthens its credibility with clients and partners, gaining access to exclusive resources and support that further fuel innovation. In a competitive industry, AWS Competencies help Metal Toad demonstrate its technical excellence and commitment to delivering cutting-edge cloud solutions, driving long-term success and growth.

If you're interested in learning how Metal Toad's competencies can help your business, contact us and we would he happy to help.