RelayWare Channel Management Partner Portal Review

The problem with other partner portals is that they don’t really create solutions for vendors with complex business procedures. Portals are created for vendors and resellers to provide: 24-7 open communication and support, complete and up to date product information, simple and user friendly interface, integrated database, and finally, reliable CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and CMS (Content Management System) modules.

I highly recommend Relayware for vendors seeking solutions for their channel management needs. This web-based application can be integrated with the vendor’s database or file management system. Content management is easier; it supports multiple languages and also can support a number of sites. Distributors, VARs (Value Added Resellers), DMRs (Direct Marketing Resellers), Administrators, etc. have their own customized interfaces. This is especially helpful to not so savvy members of the partnership. Training time will be minimized with a system that is direct to the point and easy to operate. I commend the developers for the simple but logical design of the interface.

The system can be customized by the Systems Administrator to reflect only what they want the resellers or other partners to see. This way, they system protects data that a partner, for example, is not privy to. No programming or html skills are needed to integrate the system to the company’s site and database. Using the file management system, partners can create their own database of customers. They can input the information using any browser as long as they are registered users.



partner channel

Relayware includes a deal registration that is integral to the partnership. Resellers can upload potential leads that the vendor can deny or approve at real time so no time is wasted. By entering the data into the sales pipeline, the application will be able to compare the deal and reject duplicate deals preventing channel conflict.

All these conveniences means that channel management will be a smooth process for the vendor. Resellers will be motivated to register deals and customers, and vendors will be able to facilitate the sales which will result to increase revenues for both parties.

Improving Partner Performance by Combining Channel Management and Partner Portal

A partner portal is a web-based application you can use to improve partner performance. The continuity of excellent performance within a distribution network is dependent on constant improvement. This is severely important especially during these tough economic times where numerous channel-centric industries are experiencing a wide array of challenges and problems.


channel management solutions

The special design of these portals increases the collaboration and communication amongst partners and between manufacturers and partners. Channel members are able to gain access to important information, resources, leads, programs, incentives and so much more. Moreover, managers will be able to provide them with the support necessary for them to perform optimally and become substantially more productive. Parent companies will be able to enjoy an increased transparency of operations and performance. They will be able to identify high-performing and underperforming affiliates and act accordingly.

However, a company that is equipped with the most recent and best technology, solutions and software cannot successfully vie for success. This is because having a partner portal is not enough. Business owners should do well to use the best strategies in channel management and combine it with an excellent partner portal. This is the best way to overcome a variety of problems such as the lack of communication and collaboration across a channel, failure to collect and analyze appropriate data, lack of business alignment, the vendors’ tendency to focus on high-performance affiliates, and unappealing incentives.

With the help of channel management strategies and a partner portal, companies should do the following to improve the performance of partners: look beyond performance; collect and analyze the right kind of data and information; communicate and collaborate effectively; and provide rewards and incentives. Achieving all of this will most likely guarantee a significant improvement in performance. A great tip that all channel-dependent companies should remember is that partners are essential to the distribution network and deserve fair treatment.