Maverick sends AV resellers to Cisco school

Convergence of AV and networking sectors prompts distributor to offer AV resellers free access to Cisco SMB University

Distributor Maverick is aiming to drive up networking skills among its AV reseller base through a complimentary training link-up with Cisco.

With IT networks now at the core of many AV solutions, Maverick is handing its VARs the opportunity to attend a Cisco SMB University course for free.

The two-day session, held in London on the 23 and 24 of July, would normally cost £795 per person. Those that pass will become Cisco accredited partners, handing them access to improved discounts and a slew of other benefits.

Maverick director Jon Sidwick, said: “We are seeing more convergence between AV and other IT systems and it is becoming increasingly important for resellers that specialise in AV to at least have an understanding of networking and ideally, the ability to offer key elements of network solutions. Resellers that can offer skills in both fields are going to be in demand.”

Sidwick listed the ability to set up and connect specialist display devices to networks as a particular hot spot, as more organisations look to deploy network-controlled digital signage solutions.

“This is a great opportunity for AV resellers to start learning about Cisco solutions and extend their potential to new areas of business," Sidwick added.

“We are seeing very strong levels of interest in digital signage and there is a clear need here for resellers that can offer a complete service. As well as having the ability to set up and install the display, they need to show that they have proven capabilities in networking and the backing of trusted vendors, and they don’t come much bigger or more trusted than Cisco.”