What I like about CRN’s Annual Report Card is exactly what makes it a tough tablet to swallow:  Their criteria are usually right. 

They know their stuff. The ARC Awards (an annual assessment of large tech channel programs based on their value to partners) has been around long enough that they’ve really honed in on what partners value most, so if you pay close attention to the report card criteria, you will know exactly what it takes to shine in the eyes of your partners. 

The three major ARC categories are:

1. Product Innovation
2. Support
3. Partnership

But the nuances within these categories are where it matters most. 

If you pay close attention, I’ll bet you have at least one moment of “holy cow, we didn’t think of that in our program!” or “boy, we really missed the mark on this with our new plans.” 

It's okay, just be brave enough to adjust.  And, if you don't have time to deliver on those plans this year, go ahead, test that transparency trait you've been meaning to try and communicate with your partners about what you're planning to adjust (e.g. blog).  They understand that you can't turn on a dime.  

Top 10 ARC Awards Companies: 
  1. EMC
  2. EMC
  3. Cisco
  4. HP
  5. Cisco
  6. Cisco
  7. Xerox
  8. HP
  9. Fortinet
10. Juniper Networks

Even if you aren’t a technology giant, learn from the criteria on this list and maybe one day you will be. 

Call us if you need help.  425.746.1572  (kris@emminc.com)        

PS:  If you're a Value-Adding-Reseller (VAR), you might be interested in applying to be recognized.  Applications are available now for CRN' 2010 VAR 500. Deadline is Feb 19, 2010.  Apply here.