Unify, which changed its name from Siemens Enterprise Communications last fall, has taken the pulse of its revamped channel program, finding generally positive feedback from participants.
Launched in Jan. 1, more than 2,000 partners are part of the Unify Partner Program. In its 2015 global Voice of the Partner survey, the company solicited feedback on Unify-partner business relationships, the effectiveness of recently introduced channel programs, key business processes and suggested areas for improvement.
When asked if the program changes how they will invest in Unify, 91 percent of partners indicated that they expect to invest the same or more. Of those, 36 percent plan to invest more or significantly more.
Fifty-eight percent of partners stated that they had a strategic relationship (defined as engagements with multiple departments at all levels) with Unify. An additional 19 percent of partners indicated a consultative relationship (defined as opportunistic engagements with multiple departments).
“A strong strategic partnership rating indicates that partners see value in the relationship, and actively engage at all levels, providing partners with greater value and benefits from their relationship with Unify,” the company said.
The largest category of respondents to the survey was executive owners at 36 percent.
“Partner feedback is critical to Unify as we continue to expand our global channel footprint,” said Jon Pritchard, Unify’s executive vice president of worldwide channels. “Their input and suggestions on how we continue to develop our product portfolio, improve key business processes, and deepen our relationships presents a great opportunity for both parties to continue to grow our business together. As with any strong relationship, open and honest dialogue ensures that we are aligned and focused on the best opportunities for growth.”
Partners said that they saw the program as having significant benefits in three major areas: the opportunity for overall growth, the ability to deepen their skills and expertise, and being able to increase market share and address new customer opportunities.
