NetApp channel to push professional services

Resellers subscribed to NetApp’s VIP Programme are being given the opportunity to become Certified Professional Service Partners in a move that the vendor claims will allow them to supplement equipment sales with new revenue streams.

NetApp has introduced a professional service strand to the VIP scheme so that resellers can provide professional and consultancy services to their clients.

To take advantage of the addition, partners will need to undertake a comprehensive training programme across all NetApp solutions or specialise in one or more solution areas, including storage system design and implementation, networked storage for virtualised platforms, virtual tape library implementation and Microsoft applications.

“According to recent IDC figures, the overall storage services market in EMEA is worth around US$12 billion, with a substantial increase in demand and growth rates in professional services. This is great growth opportunity for our VIP Programme resellers and we want to help them secure a major share,” said Martyn Molnar, regional director for the Middle East, North and South Africa and Pakistan at NetApp.

“By providing professional services, resellers can become more closely involved with their customers on day-to-day basis, supplying strategic solutions over a longer period — the basis for a mutually beneficial long-term relationship.”Resellers that make the Certified Professional Service Partner grade will be granted direct access to the most experienced consultants at NetApp and enhanced technical support. They will also be able to use a wide range of tools to automate PS work, intellectual property, consulting methodologies and best-practice knowledge bases.