Controlled Distribution for Lotus Notes & Domino
Controlled Distribution for Lotus Notes & Domino
February 2011
IBM have operated various channel programs for different elements of their Software group over the years. The Lotus brand has always been subject to what they call 'Open distribution', meaning that anyone that is registered as an IBM partner can process a license on behalf of a customer. IBM has been slowly introducing a different model within a number of their software brands, and has moved some of the Lotus portfolio into controlled distribution already (Portal, Social Software, Collaboration). IBM has now announced a revised, but presumably final, date of 1st May 2011 for the last elements of the Lotus portfolio, namely Lotus Notes and Domino, to come into this model.
What is Controlled Distribution?
Controlled distribution means that in order to place an order, new or renewal, for the designated software products, a partner must carry certifications in the products being sold, as well as having a business plan that supports their commitment to these products. This approach is obviously designed to ensure that partners are both suitably qualified, committed to the products and are the only ones able to sell these products to customers. IBM have called this program Software Value Plus (SVP).
What does this mean for you as a customer?
If you wish to place an order for any of the products under controlled distribution i.e. all Lotus products from 1st May 2011, this order will only be able to placed by an SVP authorised partner. This should be a good thing as it means that customers will need to start interfacing with the IT provider most able to service their needs around the products they are looking to purchase.
Time Technology is already an authorised SVP partner for Collaboration and Social Software, thus enabling us to order these products for customers. As a Business Partner that is fully committed to the Lotus brand, this was an easy process for us, and we are on track to be SVP authorised for Lotus Notes and Domino.
Time Technology are completely open to agreeing terms with other Business partners where they have a customer that needs to place an order involving any of the Lotus products that fall under the SVP program. This enables customers to maintain the relationship with their current IT provider whilst still getting the expertise they need for the solutions they are wishing to purchase. A true win win situation for everyone.
For more information, or a demonstration
Call us on 01483 863000
E-mail us on sales@time-technology.co.uk
