🚀 AWS Partner Network Onboarding Series [Software Path]: Preparing Your Solution for AWS FTR Validation
Getting your software solution validated through the AWS Foundational Technical Review (FTR) is one of the most important milestones in your AWS Partner journey. It demonstrates your solution’s reliability, security, and alignment with AWS best practices — unlocking new go-to-market opportunities, including AWS Competency, Partner Paths, and Marketplace programs.
But how do you prepare effectively for FTR success? Let’s break it down. ⚙️
🧭 Step 1: Understand the FTR Framework
The FTR is designed to help partners identify and remediate risks in their solutions before scaling on AWS.
It focuses on five key pillars aligned with the AWS Well-Architected Framework:
- Security: Protect data and manage access with AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM).
- Reliability: Ensure workloads are resilient and recoverable.
- Operational Excellence: Build strong monitoring and incident response processes.
- Performance Efficiency: Optimize for cost and scalability.
- Cost Optimization: Build efficiently and reduce operational overhead.
Familiarizing your team with these principles early can streamline your review process.
🔍 Step 2: Review AWS FTR Requirements
Before submitting your solution, ensure it meets AWS technical and documentation standards.
Key preparation items include:
- A compliant architecture diagram showing your AWS components.
- Security controls such as encryption, IAM roles, and secure logging.
- Operational documentation detailing monitoring, backup, and recovery processes.
- An up-to-date deployment guide aligned with AWS service best practices.
Tip 💡: Use the AWS FTR Self-Assessment Checklist to evaluate readiness and address any gaps early.
🧩 Step 3: Engage with Your AWS Partner Team
Your Partner Solutions Architect (PSA) or Partner Development Manager (PDM) can guide you through the process — from pre-validation readiness checks to technical deep dives.
Collaborating early helps ensure your submission aligns with both AWS standards and your business objectives.
🧠 Step 4: Learn from Past Validations
Reviewing case studies and successful validations from similar partners can reveal common patterns and best practices.
Many partners strengthen their internal processes through continuous improvement post-FTR, ensuring long-term operational excellence.
🌟 Step 5: Leverage the Benefits of FTR Approval
Once validated, your solution is officially recognized as AWS Well-Architected and secure.
You gain access to:
- AWS Partner badges for marketing credibility.
- Co-selling opportunities through the AWS Marketplace and ACE.
- Eligibility for AWS funding and competency programs.
FTR validation isn’t just a checklist — it’s a foundation for scalable, secure growth in the AWS ecosystem. 🌍
At Adiantara, we specialize in helping leadership teams navigate the cloud vendor maze with clarity. From strategic alignment to implementation and long-term value realization, we bring the experience, certifications, and business-first thinking you need to thrive in the AWS Cloud ecosystem.
