Technical Services for Resellers set to plug reseller skills gap
Web-based directory calls on VARs prepared to partner on a project-by-project basis
An online directory targeted at IT and telecoms VARs, which claims to help plug the growing skills gap in the channel, has been launched.
Technical Services for Resellers, or TS4R.co.uk, is a free service that lists self-employed engineers or other UK resellers that are prepared to partner on a project-by-project basis.
Founder Rina Abrahams claimed TS4R.co.uk will fill a gap in the market. It is currently looking for more VARs to register their details.
“Margins are decreasing in the channel and technical resources and support are where money is being made,” she said.
“Resellers are finding it difficult to employ these kinds of people on a full-time basis because it is very expensive. But TS4R.co.uk allows firms to buy in the necessary skill sets for the duration of a contract, or even find other VARs to partner with if the contract is in a different geographical location.”
Abrahams added that the service is free because it intends to generate money through on-site advertising. Although it is initially aimed at telecoms resellers, the plan is to extend it to other technical areas.
“VARs can go onto vendor web sites to find skills, but these often list only the top partners and are time consuming because they are vendor specific,” she said.
TS4R has also partnered with advisory service ChannelMoney. Nitin Joshi, founder of ChannelMoney, said: “This site is much needed. It houses a knowledge base of mission-critical skills and I am pleased that we have been chosen as a partner.”
Tony Lewis managing director of VAR Club Communications, said it is a service he would consider.
“Any communication between resellers is of great value,” he said.
“It is not a new concept in the marketplace, but if it is properly handled there is no reason why it should not work.”
>> Further reading:
Channel players line up for ChannelMoney