Aspect has created a multi-tiered program that allows partners to leverage their strengths and market expertise. The channel partner program is designed to recruit partners in three categories – Distributor, Reseller and Referral Provider.

Distributor – A Distributor is defined as a self-sufficient partner that manages the entire sales process, sublicenses Aspect, resells hardware and performs direct services related to such software and hardware, including project management, implementation and first level support.

Resellers – A Reseller is defined as a partner that manages the entire product sales process, sublicenses Aspect, resells hardware but does NOT sell or perform any services related to such software and hardware.

Referral Provider – A Referral Provider is defined as a partner that provides Aspect with qualified business leads. Referral providers are eligible for a referral fee and are required to engage in the initial stage of the sales process and to actively transfer the relationship over to Aspect, but Aspect bears the responsibility of bringing the sales process to closure.

Lead Generation – As the opportunity arises, Aspect may refer an interested prospect to a channel partner. Channel managers will work together and assist in closing that deal.

Branding – Aspect lists partner profiles and displays their logos on the public Web site. Aspect will also engage in public relations efforts to announce and promote achievements. Channel managers will develop strategic joint sales and marketing activities with their partners.

Customized Marketing – As part of Aspect's commitment to supporting its partners, a customized marketing program is developed to address joint marketing and lead generation activities. Aspect will allocate marketing resources and provide funds to partners for activities such as purchasing targeted database listings, telemarketing support to pre-qualify leads, manage local seminars, trade shows and other events.

Access to Partner Extranet Site – Partners have access to a password secured extranet that serves as a complete information repository for all available materials. The partner extranet is accessible anytime, anywhere with your Internet connection.

Marketing Materials – Channel partners have access to numerous marketing materials including product datasheets, customer success stories, corporate presentations, white papers, FAQs, technical support data, configuration information, competitive reviews, software updates and enhancements.

Marketing Tools – Access to RFP, RFQ, RFI machine. A copy of the proprietary ROI tool.

Sales and technical training verification – Training and verification testing will ensure that partners have an understanding of the hardware and software involved in Aspect® Unified IP™, as well as an explanation of how Aspect Unified IP™ contributes to improving a contact center’s day-to-day operations. The training courses have proven to be extremely effective in providing partners with the product knowledge necessary to succeed. Partners receive discounted rates for all required coursework.

Technical Support – Aspect's support services organization is available to assist channel partners on all second-level support questions and problems. The help desk has experienced representatives available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to accommodate varying time zones. Upon receipt of a request from a partner, the support services group will provide a timely response that is appropriate for the problem reported.

Depending on the level of partnership with Aspect, requirements include the following:

Pipeline review and sales forecast – Channel Partners work side-by-side with a Channel Manager and share pipeline information and keep open communication for all potential accounts.

On-site demo system – A live demonstration system is necessary to illustrate the powerful capabilities of Aspect® Unified IP™. By having a demo system on-site, partners become proficient in Aspect Unified IP™ and potential customers have an opportunity to interact with the system.

Technical Support – Distributors are required to install and maintain Aspect® Unified IP™. Maintenance includes first-level technical support; Aspect's Help Desk is responsible for second-level escalation and/or other support issues. Distributors will receive a portion of the annual maintenance for providing these services.

Training and Verification – Distributors will become self-sufficient in the sale and support of Aspect® Unified IP™. Within sixty days of signing the Channel Partner agreement two technical support staff need to be fully trained on Aspect Unified IP™. Resellers are required to have at least one sales executive attend sales training.

Channel Partner Agreement – Channel Partners must agree to all terms and conditions of the partner agreement. Since partners are responsible for payment to Aspect, all partners must first qualify for and have the appropriate credit rating provided by the Aspect finance department.

The goal of these requirements is to ensure a self-sufficient sales organization that is fully engaged in selling (and servicing, if applicable) Aspect solutions.