CompTIA and Intel team up on certification

Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) has worked with IT trade association CompTIA to create a certification to help the vendor’s channel partners increase their customer base.

It is the first time that CompTIA has worked directly with a member to create a certification for them. The Intel Server Specialist Certification will demonstrate expertise in Intel’s server range, which the firm says enable resellers to provide a better service through all stages of the server lifecycle.

CompTIA says the new certification is recognition that customers expect resellers to show a solid understanding of the technology they are selling and implementing, and to be able to tailor it to meet specific business needs.

The certification builds on the online and face to face training already offered to channel partners by Intel. It is considered an important move away from pure technology sales into providing a value added service through its channel partners.

Says Richard Peel, membership sales EMEA at Intel: “The market is changing, and selling great technology is no longer enough. To stand out and succeed, technology providers need to understand customer problems, recommend and install the right solution, and provide ongoing support.”

The certification will form the backbone of Intel’s partner programme, which was recently re-structured and rebranded the Intel Technology Provider Programme. The new look programme shifts the focus from directly pushing products to ensuring that those selling the products understand them and can advise accordingly.

Adds Peel: “Involving CompTIA guaranteed that the certification meets industry expectations and will deliver real, independently approved, value to our partners.”

Says Matthew Poyiadgi, European VP of CompTIA: “This is the first time we have designed a vendor certification, and we recognised it as an excellent chance to support one of our largest members, and the many resellers who rely on Intel’s technology. The project has also helped grow our own experience and will generate revenue which can be reinvested in supporting our members.”

Intel will offer online learning content to help partners meet the requirements to pass the exams. Exams will be taken through Pearson Vue for a one-off cost of £60.