Microsoft launches Windows Insider Program for Business to better understand IT Pro needs

Since Microsoft introduced the Windows Insider Program along with Windows 10 back in September 2014, millions of enthusiasts have signed up to test preview builds of the latest operating system for PCs and phones. The massive crowdsourcing program has been instrumental to gather feedback on new features and fix bugs before new updates roll out to consumers, but Microsoft is now looking for ways to get more IT professionals involved in the pre-release program.

Indeed, the company just announced the Windows Insider Program for Business (“WIP4Biz”) at its Ignite conference in Australia (via Neowin), a new initiative aimed at IT pros looking for better ways to test preview builds in their corporate environments. During the presentation, the company explained that a better understanding of IT Pro needs will help Microsoft improve Windows commercial deployment.

Details about the new initiative are still scarce for now, but the company is inviting IT Pros interested in the program to complete a pre-registration form on the Windows Insider website. On the dedicated page, Microsoft explains that Windows Insiders who fill the form will get access to new features in the coming months:

In the coming months, we’ll be adding additional features to the existing Windows Insider Program to better support you in your job. (…) Insiders may need to take additional action to access new features when they are made available. Instructions for accessing these new features will be communicated to Insiders who complete this pre-registration form.

According to Redmond, IT Pros are already a “large and critical group within the Windows Insider Program” and the company seems to be doing the right thing to address their specific needs. Sound off in the comments if you think the new initiative is a good way to expand the Windows Insider Program.