Context results
PC Dealer and computer research firm Context have joined forces to reveal the views of the reseller channel on specific topics each month. This month we publish the results of the PC Dealer/Context Panel questionnaire on the year 2000 problem.
1 What do you feel is the most difficult problem with regards to theeveal the views of the reseller channel on specific topics each month. This month we publish the results of the PC Dealer/Context Panel questionnaire on the year 2000 problem. year 2000 issues?
Nearly half (43 per cent) of the PC Dealer/Context panel have quoted software changes as their main concern related to the year 2000 issue, with hardware changes also important. Other main factors seen to present major problems were customer needs and fears, perhaps needing specific service offerings alongside software and hardware issues. The 'other' answers included effective communication to customers, concerns raised over accurate information, media hype and hardware/software capabilities, and customer apathy.
2 Have you allocated a budget for this occasion?
The majority of the panel (73 per cent) said they have not allocated a budget for year 2000 issues, with only 24 per cent of respondants having already done so. This seems surprising given the answer to the first question.
Software is becoming an increasingly profitable product for resellers, and it follows that tackling the year 2000 issue would be a valuable opportunity for resellers to offer their services and expertise.
3 Have you planned an internal audit to solve the issues associated with the year 2000?
Almost two-thirds of the panel plan to carry out an internal audit to deal with the issues, demonstrating that awareness on the topic is good.
However a significant proportion of resellers - four per cent according to question one - still remain completely unaware of the problem.
4 Are you planning to hire external consultants to help deal with year 2000 issues?
An overwhelming majority of the panel will not be using external consultants, which presumably means that the panel are keeping up to date with the latest developments and possess the necessary expertise to deal with them.
Either that or companies feel the issues are not as grave as have been suggested.
5 Have your clients asked you to conduct an audit relating the year 2000 issue?
From the above results it can be speculated that although the panel are well informed about year 2000 issues, one-third of clients have yet to call on their expertise by asking for an audit.
6 Have your suppliers asked you to conduct an audit relating to the year 2000 issue?
Given the wealth of resources and concern shown by major industry partners, it is surprising that so few suppliers have requested an audit.
Conclusion
Although the majority of resellers on the panel appear to be well informed about year 2000 issues, there are still some areas to be addressed. Relevant communication with suppliers to provide common approaches and shared expertise could prove a vital element in resellers' ability to profitably solve some of these issues. Strategic planning to provide clients with information, services and products could also provide a welcome business opportunity at a time when margins elsewhere are becoming less favourable.