Thursday, April 29, 2010

Partner Profile and Developing a Distribution Channel

A lot of people have looked to distribution channels to improve the performance of their businesses, especially in the IT world. Channel management strategies are spreading like wildfire and it is mainly because of the relevant advantages it offers to those who use it. However, it is easier said than done for despite the simplicity of the idea, the development of a channel requires careful planning and execution.

It is no longer a mystery that a distribution channel is a way for a parent company or a product manufacturer to reach out to potential end consumers. It consists of distributors, dealers, sub-dealers, brokers—basically the entities that help reach customers. It can be just one organization relating to an end consumer, or many middle entities that increase the value of a network. It involves a variety of important processes such as channel recruitment which depends on a partner profile, and other programs.

Once everything falls into place and the network is ready to go, the next phase of qualifying the network begins. What some do not understand is that qualification is a vital part of the process because it is necessary for demonstrating the products and services offered to the market. In order to qualify, the following qualities must be present: (1) Ability to understand the customer; (2) In-depth, working knowledge of the goods and services being offered to the market; (3) Effective communication; (4) If applicable, adequate resources to perform Electronic Products Distribution, as well as a division that concentrates on the development of the channel and qualifying it.

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However, before taking the plunge and developing a channel, one must understand a very important underlying principle which is maintaining a good working relationship with partners. That’s why experts constantly emphasize the importance of selecting the right ones with the help of a partner profile and a good channel recruitment process. Remember that it is critical to work for the partner, and in turn, parent companies will be rewarded with a continuous profitable enterprise.

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