Flash vendor Nimble Storage (NYSE:NMBL) has launched a global channel programme for partners reselling the Nimble Adaptive Flash platform.
The Nimble Storage Partner Programme will offer certification levels for the first time, Gold, Silver and Bronze, and are based on the partner’s accreditations and success in selling Nimble storage. Depending on their level, Nimble will provide resources such as on-demand demonstrations, networking opportunities at both local and national events and branded marketing materials.
The vendor has also launched the Nimble Loyalty Incentive Programme, a growth-focused allotment of marketing development funds (MDF) available to Gold and Silver certified partners.
In addition, partners are provided targeted sales performance incentive funds (SPIF), a trade-in programme that allows them to replace older storage units with the Nimble Adaptive Flash platform, discounts on Not-for-Resale (NFR) equipment used for lab and demonstration purposes, and a deal registration programme that rewards partners with discounts for new sales opportunities.
Alvin DaCosta, director of channel marketing at Nimble says the growth of the company is dependent on its partners’ ability to sell its products.
“Because of this, we’ve designed a programme that removes the complexity seen in other partner programmes,” he says. “The Nimble Partner Programme encompassing all of our certifications, incentives and enablement tools in an easy to understand approach. We are proud to introduce unique tools and resources that can be leveraged to drive growth for our partners’ business.”
At the same time the vendor has launched a partner mobile app that includes information found on the Partner Portal, including deal registration and technical specifications across the Nimble portfolio.
In addition, Nimble is providing a range of free online training courses through Nimble University where partners have access to a team that delivers core sales and Fibre Channel protocol training, and a partner webinar series – bi-monthly training to enable partners to learn about the latest products and solutions and provide feedback based on field experiences.
“Nimble Storage has recognised the regional differences required in different countries and provided a comprehensive range of tools and resources for our organisation to successfully sell products and solutions to enterprise customers in the UK,” comments Simon Birney, managing director of Nimble partner, NG-IT.
“As a business NG-IT has a mature team of industry veterans in converged storage and virtualisation, and Nimble has worked hand in hand with us to capitalise on our joint go to market capabilities.”
