[Cross-posting from the GetThePoint blog.]

At the SharePoint Conference today, we announced the availability of two new and exciting tools that help IT engage end users and stimulate SharePoint adoption:

• Internal Buzz Kit: this kit provides sample materials and training to help customers kick off SharePoint deployments. It includes demo videos, e-mail scripts, scripted brownbag presentations, posters, training links, a guide on how to hold a training session, information about building online community and encouraging super users, training completion certificates, and guidance on how to run an "internal buzz campaign."

• GEAR Up: this online content tool inserts adoption in the context of phases in SharePoint deployments. GEAR Up includes the Internal Buzz Kit, and also points to the SharePoint Server 2007 End User Training Kit released back in December.

GEAR Up will help IT professionals and business managers find timely resources and guidance through phases of a typical SharePoint Server 2007 deployment cycle:

• Get Ready: how to build a business case and win executive sponsorship
• Engineer: resources to help with site design, capacity planning and governance
• Adopt: recommended tactics and materials to both engage and train end users..
• Release: build a community for ongoing support and planning a launch

Visit http://sharepoint.microsoft.com/gearup. At the SharePoint Conference, there will also be a session to describe the tools and recommend how to design a comprehensive user adoption plan -- "CSC 201 Build End-User Excitement and Proficiency" takes place on Monday at 2:30, in room 6E.

This collection of resources (GEAR Up, the Internal Buzz Kit, and the training) will help demonstrate our commitment to the millions of SharePoint  users. With a methodical approach, actionable tactical recommendations, and sample starter materials, the tool also will help customers through the complex challenges in stimulating both technology adoption and change management.  

Thanks to:

Redmond Technology Partners, Microsoft Gold Partner, for design and infrastructure

Solutions IQ for their help in building the end user training