HP launches Storage Gold Partner Program

Mohit Chhabra

NEW DELHI: In a move to create a category focussed channel, HP has started

the Gold Partner Program for its storage business. As part of the program, HP

will work with select channel partners across the country to develop the storage

market in India.

The program will largely focus on the mid-size storage solutions. For high

storage solutions, HP works directly with corporate partners like HCL and CMC.

HP has already appointed 24 partners across the country as part of the program.

"Most of the appointed partners represent markets in the A and B class

towns," said HP India, marketing manager, Network Storage Solutions

Organization Avijit Basu.

The program has been launched in Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai and Mumbai with a

package-training program. "The program and training details were drafted

after meeting all the individual partners," states Avijit. HP is looking at

the channel to contribute nearly 45 per cent of its storage solutions business.

The qualifying parameters for selection includes the availability of one

technical and one sales person dedicated to the storage business. "The

partner is also expected to invest in co-marketing activities and

training," adds Avijit. According to him, the company must also possess

skill sets pertaining to system and network integration.

Each gold partner will be aligned with HP storage sales specialists and

technical consultants for direct engagement with the client for pre-sales

support, quoting, configuring and solutions support.