EMC enhances Velocity2 Partner Program for Middle East

The introduction of Partner Specialties in five solution areas - Consolidation, Backup, Archive, Security and Content - enables EMC's Velocity² Partners in the region to differentiate their business model and offer additional value to their customers by delivering complete end-to-end solutions combining hardware, software and services skills.

Velocity² Partners can become part of the Velocity² Authorized Service Network (ASN) Program and receive advanced technical training from EMC and have access to the EMC proprietary service methodologies and tools that are also used by EMC Services specialists. This level of certification will allow partners across the Middle East to engage with customers on a deeper level, enabling them to deliver the highest quality of customer satisfaction. Specialty certifications will be grouped around a set of product, software and services relevant to each solution area.

"As EMC's mid-market customers in the Middle East become increasingly sophisticated, they are looking for a solution provider that can deliver a comprehensive offering. The Specialty areas being introduced into the EMC Velocity² Partner Program will ensure that our Partners in this region are qualified to offer a complete solution based on the customer's needs. The additional services skills set will allow the Partner to own the customer relationship from the initial sale, through to implementation and ongoing support,"

commented Samir Achour, Channel Manager for EMC Middle East.

Partners will receive an advanced set of benefits associated with their Specialty area such as performance based rebates and demand generation support. The Specialty logo displayed by Partners, will allow customers to clearly identify the best 'go-to' Partner in their region for their selected solution requirement.

The Consolidation, Backup, and Archive Specialties will be available on 1 July 2008 and the Security and Content Specialties will be rolled out in Q1 2009.