AWS Introduces Channel Program With New Incentives For Solution Providers
Amazon Web Services has introduced a channel program that delivers greater financial incentives to all categories of resellers for investing in their AWS practices.
The AWS Solution Provider Program replaces the AWS Channel Reseller Program, adding benefits for partners that develop technical capabilities and drive new business, as well as more flexible contracts and support plans, Mira Ayad, Head of Strategy for AWS Partner Network (APN) Incentive Programs, wrote on the AWS blog.
The program is available to all AWS resale partners, including systems integrators, managed service providers and VARs.
Partners that qualify as Authorized Solution Providers will see a tiered discount structure designed to reward their technology investments and success in driving new business.
"This program enables Authorized Solution Providers to manage, service, support and bill AWS accounts for end customers, and enables end customers to have their own terms with AWS," Ayad said.
On the support side, the program for the first time aligns the discount partners get from AWS with the quality of support they offer customers. It also introduces support training opportunities from AWS, along with monthly performance metrics for feedback on partner operations.
To help partners that excel in providing support differentiate their practices, AWS will roll out a new credential, AWS Support Verified. Solution providers that earn that status, which becomes available in October, will also see higher discounts.
Finally, the new program also allows customers to have their AWS Service Agreements govern AWS accounts managed by solution providers.
Partners can earn greater benefits and discounts by demonstrating the quality of solutions they offer through their practices through the AWS Competency Program and AWS MSP Program, both validated by third-party auditors.
The Solution Provider program is looking to encourage specialized technical capabilities, like migrations to AWS, DevOps or cloud managed services, according to AWS.
New discounts go into effect after partners enroll in the program.