Novell has announced updates to its PartnerNet program that will help resellers take advantage of new business opportunities presented by Novell`s directory-enabled networking solutions. PartnerNet99, the revised programme gives resellers improved sales and technical education along with tools to drive adoption of Novell`s NetWare 5 and Novell Directory Services-enabled products.
According to Novell channel and distribution manager Martin Bawden, the adoption of these solutions will drive subsequent revenue for the channel. "Through an umbrella training component called the Novell Channel Academy, PartnerNet99 will promote certification updates that ensure resellers provide customers with superior solution recommendations and support for their complex business technology issues."
The Novell channel comprises over 27 000 resellers worldwide who have built their businesses around directory-enabled Novell solutions. These partners are widely renowned for their high level of customer service.
However, as Novell`s new directory-enabled technologies are rapidly released, resellers face the ongoing challenge of keeping abreast of product changes. PartnerNet99 is designed to address this challenge by providing in-depth sales and technical training opportunities, extensive informational resources and sales/technical support to Novell`s valued partners.
"A mutual commitment to PartnerNet99 by Novell and the channel reaps significant benefits in terms of channel growth," adds Bawden. "Novell is committed to arming channel partners with the knowledge to effectively sell and support Novell solutions. With PartnerNet99, Novell has put in place unprecedented levels of support that reflect how much value we place on channel relationships. Training opportunities, technical and sales tools, informational resources and support channels are all available through PartnerNet to help resellers succeed."
PartnetNet99 entails new requirements for qualification as a Platinum or Gold channel partner to ensure Novell customers receive adequate support for new Novell solutions. As part of their certification, Platinum partners will employ three full-time NetWare 5 Certified Novell Engineers (CNE) and three full-time Certified Novell Salespeople (CNS). Gold resellers will employ one full-time NetWare 5 CNE and one full-time CNS. If channel partners meet these new requirements by July 1, 1999, the Platinum and Gold program fees will be waived.
Novell is working to quickly equip channel partners with information that will drive business growth. Channel Academy training on Novell`s directory-enabled solutions will begin shortly with sales education in March and technical education in April.
The Novell Channel Academy will go global with sales and technical training that has the potential to provide 70 percent of the established Novell channel with an opportunity to update their certification. Once certifications are renewed, PartnerNet99 will offer channel partners extensive benefits including free trial copies of all Novell product, continued technical and sales support, quarterly local training and Web-based informational resources.
For more information on PartnerNet99 visit http://www.novell.com/channel or phone toll free 0800 232425.
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