The Windows 7 Software Logo Program

The Windows 7 logo program aims to help customers make better purchase decisions by identifying products via the “Compatible with Windows 7” logo that have passed Microsoft-designed tests for compatibility and reliability on Windows 7. For software publishers looking to build on Windows 7, the program provides partners not only increased visibility through marketing support but also tools to help partners deliver products that they, and their end-users, can be confident will “just work” on Windows 7.

Overview

• If you are developing hardware, visit Windows Developer Central (WHDC)
• If you are developing software, read on...

The new Windows 7 logo requirements are based on extensive analysis of error reports, input from domain experts and feedback from Microsoft’s OEM , ISV and IHV partners on the challenges they and their customers face.  The logo toolkit targets specific, commonly identified application issues to help partners deliver a product that is compatible and reliable on Windows 7.  Once in market, access to Windows built-in error reporting enables partners to monitor issues being experienced by their customers and respond pro-actively to improve their product.

How To Get Started

	Review The Requirements The Windows 7 Software Logo Program requirements provide details on what is tested and eligibility criteria for applications.
	Opt In to Receive Announcements To automatically be notified of toolkit releases and other software logo program updates, Microsoft strongly recommends that all partners opt-in to receive announcements regarding the program. This helps us quickly deliver new information to you as it becomes available.
	Download the Toolkit and Test Your Application Information regarding the toolkit, submissions and release schedules are hosted on Microsoft Connect.

Program Benefits

• Microsoft Partner Points
  

  When your application earns the “Compatible with Windows 7” logo, your business will receive up to 30 Partner Points for use in the Microsoft Partner Program*. The Microsoft Partner Program provides valuable software, training, and support; you can learn more at Program Membership.

  *Total points awarded subject to rules of MSPP program; see MSPP calculation details for more information.

• Priority Listing on the Windows 7 Compatibility Center
  

  Logo-qualified products receive special priority on the foremost showcase of Windows products: the Windows Compatibility Center.

• Logo Artwork & Marketing Guides
  

  Logo artwork is provided to display on your packaged product and websites to help communicate to your customers that they can be confident your product will be compatible and run reliably on Windows 7.  The logo marketing guide provides you with details on how.

• Windows Error Reporting
  

  Once in market, access to Windows built-in error reporting (WER) enables you to monitor issues being experienced by your customers and respond pro-actively.

Best of all, there’s no charge to submit.  Once your application passes the logo requirements, you simply submit for the logo and will begin receiving the benefits above.