Avaya overhauls partner program

Avaya has launched a global partner channel program, dubbed, Avaya Connect.

The program combines the company's fragmented channel programs into a globally consistent framework that streamlines processes, pricing, training and certification requirements.

Rob Wells, managing director for Australia and New Zealand told CRN, Avaya Connect expands financial benefits, technical, marketing and sales support and includes a simplified training and certification program which has also been streamlined from nearly 70 learning and certification tracks to six.

Wells said Avaya has simplified a number of program elements and transaction processes so partners can respond more quickly to opportunities.

"[Avaya] has trimmed its pricing model into a single, global price list to make it easier for customers to understand, and faster for partners to develop quotes," he said.

"The program transitions from using post-sales rebates to providing point of sale credits," he said.

Furthermore, Avaya Connect will reduce partner requirements and processes for Platinum, Gold, Silver and Authorised levels, the vendor has claimed. 

"The new program also includes a Geographic Designation component to better support the needs of multinational customers and the partners who support them," Wells said.

It will also provide global partners with details on its business strategies and product/service roadmaps and information on tools.

Wells said the program was started "way before" its acquisition of Nortel's enterprise business, includes Nortel resellers that've also joined Avaya.

He claimed many Nortel partners have joined Avaya's program, with the integration of resellers well under way in the region.

"A joint integration planning team comprised of reps from Avaya and Nortel Enterprise have been involved in the integration planning," he said.

The joint force assessed both companies' portfolios and ensured "customers had their technology investments protected at closing", said Wells.Avaya Connect will kick off on February 1 next year.

Meanwhile, Avaya will hold a virtual partner conference on 10th of November that will offer a combination of on-demand training, live question and answer sessions and key reference materials.

Avaya Connect will kick off on February 1 next year.