NEC pilots VAR extranet
AV vendor unveils online channel resource providing up-to-date product information
Audiovisual (AV) giant NEC has launched a dedicated partner extranet to simplify the sales process for its channel.
The firm, which specialises in IT, communications and display technologies, has been piloting its Online Dealer Resource Centre with selected UK partners, and is gearing up to launch the site fully in the coming weeks.
Simeon Joseph, product manager at NEC, said: "The main reason we launched the extranet is that it provides more detailed background product information to support VARs."
Joseph added that because NEC sells mainly to the corporate market, VARs often have to perform complex installations.
"Although we have always provided basic spec information on the web, partners have often had trouble accessing installation manuals for speakers or wall brackets. This site will hopefully make the process easier," he said.
Joseph added that the extranet will also offer marketing support information for resellers and circulate a bi-monthly newsletter.
He said resellers will initially be invited to register online and the site will rely on feedback to improve.
"The channel is very important to us. We have a lot of reseller partners in the UK - not just AV specialists but IT VARs and home cinema dealers as well. They have the direct contact with the end-user and are the best route to market for us.
"We need the channel to get products to market, and this tool will help them to do that," Joseph said.
Nick Palmer, product marketing manager at distributor Imago Group, welcomed the launch of the site.
"Having up-to-date product details is absolutely vital as a distributor. Both dealers and end-users rely on us to provide advice on the best systems to meet their needs, so having the correct information is crucial in gaining and retaining custom," he said.
"Any resources, such as NEC's extranet, that provide simple, accurate and accessible information are a great help as a point of reference. It means we can provide a complete service to our customers. As one of NEC's distributors we will find this channel initiative a great resource."