Microsoft just got a big boost when IT giant HCL decided to set up a dedicated business unit focused on Microsoft solutions. HCL is staffing the business unit with about 5,500 professionals who will develop solutions based on various technologies including Microsoft’s Business Applications, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Microsoft Azure, IoT, and AI/Machine Learning.

“By establishing a Microsoft Business Unit, HCL is taking an important step forward in the long-standing partnership between our two companies. As a result, companies will benefit from unique products and services tailored to their digital journey while fostering modern work and collaboration. Together, we will be able to offer our joint customers a rich experience,” commented Microsoft EVP Judson Althoff.

“The HCL Microsoft Business Unit is the next phase to bolster HCL’s successful and long-standing relationship with Microsoft. Increasingly, customers are making bold strides, incorporating IoT solutions with machine learning for analytics, running this solution in the public cloud and supported by CRM,” stated Kalyan Kumar, an HCL executive, “This business unit combines HCL’s specialized services and global reach with Microsoft’s powerful cloud and business technologies, making a strong and unique offering for clients. These offerings are coming at a critical time when enterprises are aggressively implementing digital technologies for competitive advantage.”