HP And Sage Offer Resellers A Roadmap For CRM Customers
The two companies are targeting the reference configurations, which are part of the HP Business Intelligence portfolio, toward small and mid-size businesses. They will be of particular value to businesses that are undertaking proof-of-concept CRM projects, the companies say.
The configurations are built around Sage's SalesLogix v7.2 CRM software for SMBs. "We've been working with them for a long time and we see them as a very key player, especially in CRM," said Urs Renggli, director, worldwide small and mid-sized business activities within HP's Technology Solutions Group.
HP says the reference configurations will help channel partners by reducing the amount of time needed to determine what information technology a customer needs, minimize system configuration and deployment time, and reduce implementation risks. That will help resellers acquire and retain customers and develop profitable relationships with them. While all customer implementations have unique requirements and problems, Renggli said the reference specifications could provide up to 80 percent of the guidance channel partners need.
The reference configurations include the HP ProLiant and BladeSystem servers; HP StorageWorks Modular Smart Arrays, HP StorageWorks Enterprise Virtual Arrays and direct-attached storage; and HP Systems Insight Manager, HP ProLiant Essentials, and HP Business Technology Optimization management software.
The reference materials will also include information on best practices in system security, continuity and efficiency, Renggli said. Previews of the reference information are available online with detailed documentation provided directly to channel partners.