Ingram Micro is now poised to drive a wave of data center modernization opportunities via the channel following the gaining of a VMware Master Services Competency in Data Center Virtualization announced today.
VMware over the past year has been revamping its certifications as part of an effort to expand the number of VMware products and services that are included within any solution. The VMware Master Services Competency in Data Center Virtualization has its core VMware vSphere, which VMware has been positioning as the foundation for building next generation software-defined data centers (SDDCs).
The VMware Master Services Competency in Data Center Virtualization is one of four Master competencies that VMware has set up to enable partners to drive professional services engagements. The other three are span cloud management and automation, network virtualization and desktop and mobility. In return for participating at this level, VMware partners receive additional support, prioritization in terms of engagement, education discounts and access to demand generation tools and services.
Ingram Micro sees being able to train partners on how to deliver professional services as a two-fold opportunity. In the first phase, Ingram Micro works with partners to train them on how to attain VMware Master certifications. But Ingram Micro is also keen to deliver professional services are behalf of channel partners as well.
The Master certifications set up by VMware provide a rigorous process through which channel partner are trained, says Greg Richey, director of training and professional services for Ingram Micro. Ingram Micro channel partners are also funneling the IT staffs of their end-user customers into the VMware certification process as well, notes Richey.
“The VMware Master certification is best in class in the industry,” says Richey.
Ingram Micro in total now has over 145 VMware certifications. Ingram Micro reports the top three VMware professional services partners are using Ingram Micro to deliver are security and wireless assessments, social engineering, and deployments. The top two VMware training tracks being leveraged by Ingram Micro channel partners are focused on security and data protection.
Most channel partners recoup the cost of acquiring certifications via rebates and other mechanisms that increase their margins. The real challenge isn’t so much the cost of training, but rather holding on to that talent once those certifications are attained.
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