HP ups the stakes with new, customer-focused Preferred Partner Programme

A natural evolution in HP's partnering strategy -and a key initiative under PartnerONE for Europe, Middle East and Africa - the Preferred Partner Programme is designed to help customers find Preferred Partners with a high level of expertise in specific areas where they require a solution.

The programme focuses on the development of a highly competitive, dynamic and skilled partner sales force that delivers an unbeatable customer experience - while driving growth and profitability for both HP and its partners.
Because of this dual emphasis on customer service and partner value-add, HP has established precise Preferred Partner quality standards. Those partners who invest in HP are rewarded with an enhanced benefits package, including the Preferred Partner Programme logo.

The logo - HP's quality stamp of approval - includes the year issued, so customers can quickly identify up to speed partners, while protecting committed partner investment.

"HP is devoted to channel innovation, constantly exploring and developing a value-driven architecture from which both our partners and our end customers benefit," said Hazem M. Bazan, Solutions Partner Organisation, HP Middle East. "With our Preferred Partners' expertise and customer service capabilities, it should be no surprise that together we offer something much better than direct."

The HP Preferred Partner Programme presents a comprehensive suite of benefits, incentives and services to help partners improve their customer offering, including:
• Direct contact with HP
• Predictable compensation directly from HP
• HP sales and marketing resources
• Priority access to special pricing support
• A better than direct customer experience with Smart Choice Customizer
• Skills development
• Early access to product roadmaps and demo equipment
• Recognition as a proven HP solutions provider

The Preferred Partner Programme is divided into nine new specialisations, which span HP's entire business to provide increased flexibility and market competitiveness. Each specialisation comes with its own specific qualification criteria and benefits.

Preferred Partners can choose to qualify in the following competency areas:
• Computing Systems
• DataCenter Solutions
• e-Preferred
• High-Performance Computing
• Imaging and Printing
• Mobility: Smart Devices
• Networking and Security
• Services
• StorageWorks Solutions

Preferred Partner training is delivered through the HP Certified Professional Programme, which allows partners to gain recognition and value from the investments they make in HP knowledge acquisition. It reinforces their capability to deliver added value and customer service. Sales and technical training are offered in four focus areas: sales, pre-sales, integration and operating systems.

The new HP Registered Partner Programme allows prospect and proximity partners, who do not meet the Preferred Partner criteria, to transact with HP.