To ensure the success of the communities in which it operates, Dimension Data, through its Partner Programme, works closely with small businesses to deliver solutions and services. The Dimension Data Partner Programme addresses the need for the ICT services company to meet the requirements of its local and global clients while providing world class multi-vendor solutions.

The Partner Programme enables small ICT businesses in the region to sell and support clients using Dimension Data services and solutions. Through these partnerships, Dimension Data is able to establish a strong network of support while empowering small businesses in the region.

Dimension Data partners are the company's most trusted and qualified resellers in the IT business, authorised to consult, sell and support across all Dimension Data solution offerings. Dimension Data Preferred Partners guarantee the delivery of the best possible level of business engagement to clients.

The Partner Programme enables Dimension Data to deliver its services and solutions in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region by working with the top ICT small businesses across the region. Certified and promoted by Dimension Data, every partner offers in-depth knowledge and experience, to ensure clients receive the best and most consistent service in the industry.

Benefits of the Programme

As the region's largest ICT company, Dimension Data draws on a wealth of local knowledge and global experience. The company ensures that partners are enabled to offer in-depth technology, industry and business expertise, a firm understanding of what is required for success, coupled with proven ability and industry skills to help clients meet their business objectives - a solid foundation on which they can build success. Partner Programme members gain access to top of the range Dimension Data services and solutions to offer clients.

The Dimension Data Partner Programme has established a consolidated network of approved partners that can deliver multi-vendor capabilities in geographies where Dimension Data does not have a direct presence.

Dimension Data maintains a collaborative relationship with partners to ensure a better understanding of its business and an aligned delivery strategy. The company has developed a process where partners work with Dimension Data Supply Chain Services (SCS) to provide a seamless delivery of multi-vendor solutions across the MEA region.

The Dimension Data Partner Programme helps partners develop and deliver solutions through consistent and effective service delivery that extends across multiple geographies and technologies.

The solutions and services can be customised as per the client's needs, as well as turnkey. Furthermore, the partner will have access to a team of highly qualified sales and technical resources.

Partners also have access to training, which allows skills transfer to small businesses by involving these organisations through all phases of the project, including pre-sales, implementation and maintenance.

In addition, partners benefit from a range of in-house soft skill courses delivered through the Dimension Data University (DDU). The knowledge gained helps Dimension Data partners further improve their engagement with clients.

Partner Categories

All Dimension Data Partners are categorised based on a number of factors including, among other things, competency, contribution, size, experience, and accreditation. Each partner is given a proper process and plan on how to move from one category to the next. The higher the partner is on a category level, the more rewards the partner will benefit from. The categories as based on international standards and are in line with industry best practice.

Who qualifies?

The Dimension Data Partner Programme is open to all small ICT businesses in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. Each organisation will be subjected to due diligence to ensure legitimacy and to conform to legislation of the country. If you meet the minimum criteria, you could become a Dimension Data Partner and share in some of our industry leading benefits within days.

Dimension Data offers a number of benefits to IT resellers who are on the Dimension Data Partner Programme. Dimension Data partners gain direct access to Dimension Data solutions and services, which uniquely positions them to provide the best possible experience to the client. Real-time support and the best service delivery ensures that small businesses have the best competitive deal for clients.

Partners work with Dimension Data and:

• Be empowered to offer in-depth technology, industry and business expertise and skill - a solid foundation on which to build success.
• Access top-of-the-range Dimension Data services and solutions for your clients.
• Work with Dimension Data Supply Chain Services (SCS) to provide a seamless delivery of multi-vendor solutions.
• Develop and deliver solutions through consistent and effective service delivery that extends across multiple geographies and technologies.
• Gain access to training, skills transfer and required industry certifications.
• Access the Partner Portal for documentation, sales tools and required information.
• Get measured on your performance and progress through the Partner Scorecard.

How to become a partner

Dimension Data has a consistent process for identifying, accessing and engaging suitable partners, which gives it the capability to deliver solutions to agreed service levels.

This process includes three phases:

• On-boarding
• Accreditation and Activation
• Operation

What can we expect to see from the Partner Programme in future?

Dimension Data will be hosting the first Dimension Data Partner Summit event in 2012. This will provide a platform to recognise partners as well as establishing a partner network that promotes Dimension Data solution offerings to the broader market. Partners who attend will get invaluable advice on how to expand sales and marketing skills, as well as deepen their business and technical expertise and networks. The Summit will also encourage partners to exhibit and showcase their skills and capabilities to the market. It is the ideal opportunity to network with clients and peers, gain greater exposure to Dimension Data's solutions and services, and learn more about Dimension Data's operational processes like the PM process and delivery process.

Contact details

Prospective partners must contact:
McDonald Nheke
General Manager: Partner Programme
Tel: +27 (11) 575 3440
Mobile: +27 (83) 6771773
Fax: +27 (11) 576 3440
mcdonald.nheke@dimensiondata.com
http://www.dimensiondata.com

About Dimension Data

Founded in 1983, Dimension Data plc is an ICT services and solutions provider that uses its technology expertise, global service delivery capability, and entrepreneurial spirit to accelerate the business ambitions of its clients. Dimension Data is a member of the NTT Group. www.dimensiondata.com

Article first published in the TechSmart SME Guide, August 2011.