Employing the Right Channel SaaS Provider Can Deliver a Multitude of Advantages to Your Business and Channel Partners.
If the concept of SaaS leaves you feeling a bit…cloudy, you’re not alone. Understanding the ins and outs of what exactly a channel SaaS provider is (or does) takes time. Therefore, if you’re thinking of a hiring a SaaS company to assist with the managerial process or day-to-day operations—you’d best .
The combination of market competition, consumer demand and increased demanded wages has coerced company executives to seek out cost-effective solutions to help condense overhead expenses.
Due to today’s multifaceted business ecosystem, hiring a SaaS company is becoming an increasingly enticing option for companies to pursue. From managing channel incentive programs to accounting and social media marketing, from CRM (customer relationship management) to evaluating POS and importing inventory cost data—employing a channel SaaS provider is not only a lucrative business decision but a corporate requirement.
If you participate in the business-to-business (B2B) channel marketplace, can deliver a multitude of advantages that your business and channel partners can mutually enjoy, such as:
- Reducing channel conflict (e.g., deal registration)
- Increasing work productivity
- Visibility into the indirect sales funnel
- Spotlighting partners with the best ROI
- Limiting manual resources
- Accuracy (e.g., evaluating submitted claims from distributors)
- Improving channel loyalty
However, before you opt a SaaS that conjointly fits into your business model or needs/objectives, consider these 3 key concepts:
1.) Research, research, research
There are many SaaS providers to choose from, some of which deliver, and some that don’t. Fortunately, you have countless resources that are readily available such as reputable (channel-focused) blogs, researching SaaS’ affiliate partners, reading well-respected business reviews (publications/sites), speaking with the customer service department of a potential provider, and even casual conversation with a competitor (use with caution).
2.) Easy Navigational Features
If your are going to be using a SaaS service to implement POS data, evaluate inventory costs, approve claims, prioritize channel programs (stacking), etc., you must make absolutely certain the site is user-friendly and easy to navigate through.
Therefore, before employing a channel SaaS provider, ask:
- Is it mobile accessible?
- How long (on average) is does it take for a channel manager to update day-to-day information?
- Are the programs customizable?
- Are the programs flexible enough to integrate specific guidelines for individual partners?
- How strong are its security features?
3.) How Does the Provider Relate Back to your Business?
Every SaaS provider is different. But like all businesses, there are strengths and weaknesses within each company’s infrastructure. Pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses of a potential SaaS provider, and align them with your business’s needs. Do they match up? Does the service only offer half the solutions you need?
Remember, just because a provider provides a service doesn’t mean that each of their solutions functions the same. Before purchasing anything, make sure to take part in a demonstration (by the SaaS provider) as well as “test drive” the product first-hand.
Implement the Right Channel SaaS Provider into your Channel Sales Management Process
Founded in 1984, Computer Market Research (CMR) brings years of experience into the indirect channel sales industry. Through our state-of-the-art automated software, businesses can amplify their B2B marketing efforts via a clear and concise platform that assists organizations to manage channel data, optimize trade promotions, and build effective distribution channels. CMR can help businesses maximize their relationship with distributing partners and establish transparent, two-way communication that is built around a common goal of success. Our cost-effective, SaaS application is the perfect tool for any business looking to strengthen their bond with channel partners via innovative solutions that convert data into intelligence.
Want to know how you can transform your channel? Let us show you…