Security vendor WatchGuard has launched an online application designed to help channel partners manage customer subscriptions to add-on security services.
Called the Customer Renewal Tool, the software was created specifically to help solution providers manage service subscriptions for the vendor's WatchGuard Firebox X integrated security appliances, said Christine Pomeroy, director of channel marketing and marketing communications for WatchGuard in the US.
Resellers could use the tool to ensure subscriptions didn't expire and to upsell additional offerings.
"Not only can they look at when a service is to end, but they can see what services a customer has and quote them on new services as well," Pomeroy said. "It's both a money-saver and a money-maker."
The tool, which replaced WatchGuard's Subscription Manager, could manage an array of services, including gateway antivirus protection for email, spyware blockers and anti-spam filtering.
The solution also tracked subscriptions to WatchGuard's LiveSecurity service, which includes software updates, technical support, security broadcasts and self-help resources.
Resellers could access the tool online. They then entered or imported historical data and updated accounts with new sales and customers as contracts were signed. The tool automatically emailed solution providers in advance of expiration dates, enabling partners to stay on top of lapses in service subscriptions.
The Customer Renewal Tool also allowed channel partners to set one end date to manage all subscriptions for each customer, Pomeroy said. The tool was free for WatchGuard channel program members.
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