Open-Xchange Rolls Out New Partner Program
Hoping to build momentum for its open-source collaboration product, Open-Xchange on Monday announced a new partner program designed to make it easier for partners to interact with the company. The program also provides increased product support and better lead generation.
Once registered, partners are placed in one of three different tracks depending on their individual needs, according to company officials.
The first track is for VARs, who are important because they help users select software components; they will receive technical and sales support through the Open-Xchange Partner Network. Then there's a track for systems integrators and consultants, who can use the Open X-Change Server as an integration framework in an enterprise environment; they will receive technical consulting and integration services. The third track is for ISVs, who create applications that work with Open-Xchange Server; they will gain early access to beta software to ensure integration with their software.
To improve communication, company officials say all contact with partners will be conducted through its PRM tool, which is built on the Open-Xchange Server. They will have access to such information as sales opportunities, a guide to available solutions and technical support. Partners will also have the ability to search for other partners, and will be given access to the Open-Xchange Maintenance Portal.
"Our focus here is to build a worldwide network of skilled partners that will be available to all customers," says Dave Simpson, vice president of sales at Open-Xchange. "We think the partner portal is the perfect way to demonstrate the capabilities of Open-Xchange Server, and partners can become familiar with the features and functions of Open-Xchange Server."
The latest version of Open-Xchange is Server 5, which offers messaging functions, such as e-mail and calendaring, and is integrated with groupware features, such as document-sharing, project-tracking, user forums and a knowledge base.
Two levels of the program are available to partners: Member and Certified. The entry Member level is offered to those who meet the necessary technical qualifications. The Certified Level is available for partners who qualify technically and who, in the opinion of the company, make "great" contributions."
Member and Certified partners are eligible for the $790 Value Package, which includes an Open-Xchange Server License for internal use, five complete support incidents for Member Partners, and 10 support incidents for Certified Partners.
Company officials said that starting in 2007, academic and commercial training providers will be provided with a dedicated partner offering tailored to their specific training needs.
The distribution of software and services will be provided to Open-Xchange partners through value-added distributors, particularly in geographies without an Open-Xchange presence, company officials say.