Avaya: 'Good reason' to tempt Nortel partners

CRN:  Why is Avaya interested in Nortel's channel partners
Hurt:   It's the nature of business to pursue growth opportunities. We have in Avaya Aura and market in both UC and contact centre.  Nortel channel partners represent the skills and opportunity we are seeking.

CRN: What will you do for their resellers
Hurt: We will fast track new, Nortel partners with training, sales, marketing and services support to get them quickly up to speed. In some cases, their associates can test out of some courses and quickly become certified. We are also offering additional incentives for net new customers and new product orders.

CRN: How long will the offer be available
Hurt: The recruitment program is open until July 31, 2009. The incentives will be available for customers and sales starting June 1 2009 through to May 31, 2010.

CRN: What is the aim of the program
Hurt: Avaya's goal is to offer these targeted, select Nortel Partners a good reason to invest in learning its technology and promoting its solutions to their Nortel base.

CRN: What do you have planned for your existing partners
Hurt: Our existing certified Avaya Partners are eligible for a competitive and comprehensive suite of financial and non-financial benefits as a result of participation in the Avaya Business Partner or SI-SP AlliancePartner Programs.

CRN: Does your incentives for Nortel's channel partners indicate an interest in the company for future acquisition
Hurt: We cannot disclose any information on whether or not we're interested in Nortel