Ingram foresees a cloudy future

Distributor's Channel Transformation Alliance moves to next level of cloud computing provision as it aims for solution-led approach

Ingram has launched a renewed push for its Channel Transformation Alliance as it takes the next steps towards the cloud.

Initially launched last year, the aim of the Alliance was to educate and point out reseller opportunities and threats in the emerging IT-as-a-service models, and take away the fear and uncertainty surrounding the cloud.

It also planned to explain how the cloud services broker or cloud services provider model worked to their advantage.

The distribution giant has worked closely with major players such as HP, Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, CA Technologies and SNIA Europe on this pan-European initiative which has already delivered field-based training to more than 2,000 resellers and has had over 10,000 hits on its multi-language website.

Now in its second year, the Alliance is planning to deliver a more solutions-oriented technology focus from the datacentre to the device, including virtualisation, mobility and unified communications.

Jon Bunyard, value director at Ingram Micro, said: “We have moved from the ‘what is cloud computing?’ and ‘where is my data?’ questions so often asked in previous years, to questions such as ‘how can I incorporate cloud into larger technology solutions?’ and ‘when is cloud most practical according to my customer’s needs, budget and location’.

Bunyard added: “The advancements that the Channel Transformation Alliance is making in bringing resellers closer to cloud computing, managed services and mobile communications enhances and strengthens Ingram Micro UK’s position as we grow into these technologies.

"We foresee that the increased learning opportunities in the programme will then act as the ideal springboard into areas such as unified communications and beyond.”

As a result of the enhancements, the Alliance’s website includes a beginner track and an advanced track to appeal to resellers at different stages of cloud adoption.