We are compiling a comprehensive report of which vendors are delivering what the channel needs and wants, and which could do better - and we need your help
It would take only a cursory glance through the ChannelWeb archives or a quick skim of any issue of CRN to realise that, when it comes to channel programmes and interactions with partners, vendors do not always get it right.
We often hear from resellers who are not entirely happy with, for example, rebate structures, MDF initiatives or account management. But of course, we also hear numerous glowing accounts of a vendor's channel-friendliness: its programmes, leadership and vision, or the diligence and expertise it shows in its hands-on support of VARs.
But, to the best of our knowledge, no one has ever done a full and frank assessment of what is most important to channel firms – from the smallest local resellers to the largest multinational integrators – in their vendor relationships. Nor has anyone produced a detailed breakdown of which vendors are hitting the mark, and which are falling way short.
In the current economic climate, VARs need the right support and tools from vendors more than ever. And, as we are sure many in the channel will attest, perhaps vendors could do with a little help in getting it right when it comes to their channel operations. Which is why we felt now was the perfect time to launch the CRN Vendor Report.
We are giving the channel what we hope is a unique and invaluable opportunity to provide partners with completely anonymous feedback on what they do well, what they do badly and how they can do better.
We are undertaking a survey, which covers all the leading vendors in each field. It should take no more than five minutes of your time, and all respondents will receive a complimentary executive summary of the finished report and will also be entered into a prize draw to win an iPad.
What's more, the findings of our research will, we hope, help shape how vendors interact with their UK channel partners in the future. All your answers are given in complete anonymity, so you can be totally forthright in your praise, your criticisms and your advice.
We deeply value your time and your input, which we believe will allow us to offer an insight into the channel that will provide lasting value to vendors and VARs alike.
You can complete the survey by clicking here. We thank you in advance for your help, and look forward to sharing our findings with you.
