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SAP users get the chance to rate and compare resellers
A TripAdvisor type system means that customers will be able to click through resellers looking for those with the best skills and ratings
Vendors talk a lot about ecosystems and the importance of flagging certified partners to customers but in the SAP world the users have taken it on themselves to help identify ideal resellers.
The UK & Ireland SAP User Group has launched an affiliate member portal that helps users choose the right channel partner.
The model will be familiar to anyone who has used TripAdvisor with a five star rating system in place along with reviews to help guide users to the best option.
Instead of looking for proximity to the beach or a decent pool the SAP users will be able to check to see which partners have expertise in S/4 HANA, BusinessObjects, and SuccessFactors.
There are currently 128 affiliate partners on the portal and once on the system there is an option to share case studies, white papers and promote awards and accreditations.
“Selecting the right technology partner can often be a painful process. We want our new Affiliate Member Portal to become the ‘TripAdvisor for SAP partners’, so users can quickly make informed choices based on peer feedback,” said Craig Dale, chief executive at the UK & Ireland SAP User Group.
“Through our events and annual user conference, we have always encouraged members to network and collaborate with their peers and SAP partners. We see the portal taking this a step further, providing more value to members as they look to maintain and transform their SAP environments," he added.
The rewards for those partners that do get on the portal is the chance to put themselves in a shop window to more than 5,000 SAP customers.
“We believe that over time, the portal will drive greater customer satisfaction and also help generate new leads – which is a win-win for both users and our affiliates," said Dale.
SAP has also given the thumbs up to the scheme pointing out that it will help customers find the partner that is best suited to their needs.
“This is a fantastic innovation, designed to help customers sync up with the best SAP partner to meet their needs. It’s a win-win for everyone – our customers get real insights into the partner ecosystem to aid their buying journey, whilst partners can share key information on their business to educate and inform new customers,” said Fred Chauvire, SVP, global partner ecosystem, SAP EMEA North.
