Changing Channels

The channel exists to extend a vendor’s reach and capabilities through partners, opening access to markets and revenue streams that would otherwise be out of reach. Building and running programs that enable those partners, however, rests heavily on how well performance and sales data are understood. While most agree that channel data management is critical, the practices for collecting, analyzing, and applying that information often fall short. In this episode of Changing Channels, Bill Rainey, vice president of global channels at Milestone Systems, joins Channelnomics’ Larry Walsh for a conversation about the discipline of data in the channel. Together, they explore the importance of gathering accurate information, the challenges of interpreting it, and how thoughtful analytics can guide program decisions and ultimately drive stronger partner results. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! About Larry Walsh: About Bill Rainey Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

In this episode of Changing Channels, Larry Walsh speaks with Nina Harding, Corporate Vice President of Americas Global Partner Solutions at Microsoft, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the channel landscape. From internal adoption of Copilot—Microsoft’s flagship AI tool—to the rise of AI-native partners, Harding shares how Microsoft is enabling its vast ecosystem to innovate faster, streamline operations, and deliver meaningful customer outcomes. Together, Harding and Walsh explore the growing importance of data readiness, partner-to-partner collaboration, and preserving the human element in AI-driven transformation—offering valuable insights for anyone navigating the evolving channel model. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! About Larry Walsh: About Nina Harding Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

In this episode of Changing Channels, Larry Walsh speaks with Tom Evans, Chief Partner Officer at Cloudflare, about how fostering an open, fun, and collaborative culture translates directly into partner success. Evans shares insights from his first year at Cloudflare, where he’s reshaping the company's channel strategy to accelerate growth and increase partner contribution. Learn how Evans cultivates an environment that balances high expectations with genuine enjoyment, promotes diversity of thought, and creates a sense of belonging, even in remote settings. It’s a refreshing look at how channel leaders can build strong, productive teams by making sure that work feels less like a job and more like a community. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): / channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: / lmwalsh2112 • X (formerly Twitter): / lmwalsh_cn • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-... About Tom Evans • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomevans2121/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

In this episode of Changing Channels, Larry Walsh sits down with Chris Bell, Senior Vice President of Global Channels, Alliances, and Business Development at Sophos, for an inside look at MSP Elevate—the company’s bold new program designed to reward committed partners with richer margins, exclusive capabilities, and unmatched growth potential. Bell shares how Elevate goes beyond the existing MSP Flex model by offering architect-level training, performance-based rebates, and early access to new offerings—all while simplifying the path to profitability. It’s a compelling playbook for how vendors can win partner loyalty and stand out in today’s competitive cybersecurity market. Analyst Note - Sophos Elevates MSP Engagement With New Program: https://www.channelnomics.com/insights/sophos-elevates-msp-engagement-with-new-program Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): / channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: / lmwalsh2112 • X (formerly Twitter): / lmwalsh_cn • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-... About Chris Bell • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgerardbell/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

Autodesk has overhauled its channel strategy by moving to an agency model, where the company handles transactions directly while partners focus on delivering post-sale value. The change provides Autodesk with greater pricing and data control, reduces the administrative burden for partners, and enhances the customer experience through streamlined systems and self-service capabilities. Early results show stronger renewal rates, higher partner margins, and improved operational efficiency. Rachel Tuller, Vice President of Global Channels at Autodesk, joins Larry Walsh on Changing Channels to discuss the strategy, transition, and results of this strategic change. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): / channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: / lmwalsh2112 • X (formerly Twitter): / lmwalsh_cn • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-... About Rachel Tuller • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rtuller/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

Tariffs are top of mind across the channel. In this episode of Changing Channels, Larry Walsh talks with Lynn Smurthwaite-Murphy, CEO of Pluggable Technologies, about the wide-reaching effects of shifting U.S. trade policy. Lynn shares how Pluggable restructured its supply chain in response to Trump-era tariffs and how new rounds of uncertainty are forcing fast, complex decisions. The discussion covers pricing volatility, the limits of reshoring, and how to stay competitive in a crowded peripherals market. With decades of channel experience, Lynn provides practical insight on managing through disruption and maintaining strategic focus when the rules keep changing. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): / channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: / lmwalsh2112 • X (formerly Twitter): / lmwalsh_cn • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-... About Lynn Smurthwaite-Murphy • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-smurthwaite-murphy-icd-d-6454856/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

Vendors go to great lengths to create channel programs that enable and encourage partners to succeed in their mutual go-to-market activities. These programs define the rules and agreements under which vendors and partners operate. However, partners often have little direct influence over how these programs are crafted or managed. Vendors can either elevate partners to new heights or dash their hopes and aspirations. Channelnomics reviewed years of commentary from satisfaction surveys that gathered insights from thousands of partners on their experiences and perceptions of working with different vendors. We aggregated and compiled these comments, identifying the actions that delight and frustrate partners. In this special episode of Changing Channels, host Larry Walsh explores the highs and lows of vendor engagements with partners – and what channel leaders can learn from them. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Changing Channels. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): / channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: / lmwalsh2112 • X (formerly Twitter): / lmwalsh_cn • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-... Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

In this episode of Changing Channels, host Larry Walsh speaks with Alessandro (Alex) Cattani, CEO of Esprinet Group, about the unique dynamics of working within the IT channel and distribution landscape across Europe. Unlike the United States, the European market is complex, shaped by distinct local economies, languages, and regulations across different countries. Cattani shares insights into how these regional distinctions require a highly localized approach, making distribution essential for navigating each country’s specific business climate. The conversation explores the evolving state of distribution in Europe, highlighting the digital transformation reshaping distribution and the ongoing consolidation trend. As Cattani notes, while American distributors and global firms expand their footprint, smaller, regionally-focused distributors still play a critical role in servicing localized needs. This episode is an essential listen for anyone looking to understand the nuances of the European IT channel and how distribution strategies differ significantly from the American model. Tune in for expert insights on adapting to Europe’s fragmented market and the critical role that nimble, localized distribution partners play in supporting vendors’ success. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Changing Channels. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): / channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: / lmwalsh2112 • X (formerly Twitter): / lmwalsh_cn • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-... About Alessandro Cattani • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acattani/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

In this episode of Changing Channels, Channelnomics's Larry Walsh speaks with Stephanie Chiras, Senior Vice President of Partner Ecosystem Success at Red Hat, to discuss the critical role collaboration plays in building and leveraging successful ecosystem channels. Chiras highlights how no single company can solve all customer challenges alone, emphasizing the need for multiple partners to work together to deliver comprehensive solutions. Red Hat, as a leader in open-source software, has embraced this collaborative approach by creating a flexible, modular partner framework that enables partners to engage more effectively with both Red Hat and each other. Throughout the conversation, Chiras explains how collaboration is essential for driving value through AI, hybrid cloud, and other emerging technologies, and how Red Hat is evolving its partner program to foster these collaborative motions. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Changing Channels. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmwalsh2112/ • X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/lmwalsh_CN • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-walsh/ About Stephanie Chiras • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanie-chiras-9022144/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

In this episode of Changing Channels, host Larry Walsh speaks with Sal Sferlazza, the CEO and founder of NinjaOne, a leading managed services platform, to discuss the evolving landscape of Managed Services Providers (MSPs). They dive into how NinjaOne has emerged as a competitive alternative in the crowded MSP market by focusing on simplicity, scalability, and superior customer service. From the rise of MSPs to the challenges they face in today’s complex and commoditized environment, this conversation covers how vendors like NinjaOne are helping MSPs consolidate their tech stacks, improve business outcomes, and grow their customer bases. Sferlazza also shares insights on future trends, including the role of AI and the ongoing transformation of the managed services industry. Tune in to hear about NinjaOne’s journey, strategy, and the broader managed services ecosystem. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Changing Channels. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! • Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ • LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli • X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmwalsh2112/ • X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/lmwalsh_CN • Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-walsh/ About Sal Sferlazza • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sal-sferlazza-64b916/ About NinjaOne: https://www.ninjaone.com/about-us/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

Partner advisory boards (PABs) or councils (PACs) are integral components of many vendor channel programs, serving as crucial platforms for direct and candid dialogue between vendor leadership, channel managers, and partners. These forums allow vendors to gain valuable insights into their current operations and gauge partner sentiment regarding future plans and aspirations. While most vendors acknowledge the significance of PABs in their partner programs, the effectiveness of these forums can vary. Inconsistent execution or a lack of actionable feedback can diminish their value. Successful PABs require careful planning, coordination, active listening, and, most importantly, a genuine commitment from vendors to foster an environment where partners feel encouraged to engage meaningfully. Ivanti, a provider of security and IT management software, exemplifies the impact of a well-executed PAB. Through its robust advisory board, Ivanti gathers crucial insights and direction directly from its partners. In this episode of Changing Channels, Michelle Hodges, Senior Vice President of Global Channels and Alliances, shares her expertise on what it takes to successfully produce and leverage partner advisory boards for mutual benefit. Check out Channelnomics’s Partner Advisory Board support resources: https://channelnomics.com/pab/https://channelnomics.com/partner-advisory-boards-a-vendor-user-manual/https://channelnomics.com/choosing-the-right-event/ Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmwalsh2112/ X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/lmwalsh_CN Official Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-walsh/ About Michelle Hodges LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellewhodges/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

More than 90% of software and services vendors are selling their products on subscription plans, generating annual recurring revenue (ARR). The model is more advantageous than traditional sales through transactional perpetual licensing, as it provides predictable revenue that leads to higher market valuations. While software and services sold on long-term recurring contracts have many operational and economic advantages, generating sales through partners isn’t always easy. Many vendors are challenged in getting partners to accept and act on the model. A company finding success in the subscription model is Cato Networks, which recently announced it surpassed $200 million in ARR, doubling the volume in less than two years. Cato’s global channel chief, Frank Rauch – a veteran of legacy and emerging channel models – joins Changing Channels to discuss the lessons learned in developing ARR through partners. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmwalsh2112/ X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/lmwalsh_CN Official Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-walsh/ About Frank Rauch LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankrauch/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

The managed services segment of the channel has long operated on a “best of breed” basis. These companies developed services with collections of technologies from multiple vendors, providing what they considered the best options for their needs. While "best of breed" is considered a good means of developing effective systems, it is not always easy and often expensive to create and maintain. The holy grail of managed services is the simplification of systems into consolidated applications with well-integrated features and lower total cost of ownership. This approach, in theory, leads to better organizational management, predictable costs, and improved service delivery to end customers. Earlier this year, Kaseya rolled out Kaseya 365, a new package that provides MSPs with the tools they need for service delivery at a single, low subscription price. Kaseya believes this model, which it has been working on for years, will redefine managed services economics. Mike DePalma, the vice president of business development, joins Changing Channels to discuss the new Kaseya model, what it means for the managed services community, and where the MSP model is going next. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: About Mike DePalma Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

Women in the IT channel face unique career challenges. These include skill development, gaining experience, and demonstrating their value for advancement in a predominantly male industry while also balancing motherhood and family responsibilities. Simply put, men don’t face the same pressures as women. Progress is evident, though, with more women holding leadership positions and rising through the ranks. However, mid-level channel professionals continue to face challenges balancing work and family commitments. In this episode of Changing Channels, Bryn Nettesheim, explores career issues for women building successful careers in the channel with an expert panel of senior women channel leaders: • Meaghan Sullivan-Moore, VP of Global Partner Marketing, ServiceNow • Chari Rhoades, VP of Americas Channel and Partner Sales, Proofpoint • Heather K. Margolis, CEO and Founder, Channel Maven Our discussion provides insights, experiences and tips for how women in the channel can balance their career and home commitments. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Bryn Nettesheim: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brynnettesheim/ About Our Guests • Heather K. Margolis, Channel Maven: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherkmargolis/ • Meaghan Sullivan-Moore, ServiceNow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meaghansullivan-moore/ • Chari Rhoades, Proofpoint: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chari-rhoades-21615a8/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

No one technology vendor has all the products and services that businesses need to operate efficiently and effectively. Even the best vendors with the broadest portfolios have limitations. They need to partner with complementary products and services to extend the value of their applications. This need is at the heart of what makes ecosystems valuable. Through ecosystems vendors and partners are able to combine products into systems. A significant part of this ecosystem is independent software vendors (ISVs), which make the applications that extend the functionality and value of the underlying technology products and platforms. The challenge vendors and partners face is identifying and forming relationships with the right ISVs. In this special episode of Changing Channels, host Larry Walsh speaks with three industry experts – John Dusett of Ingram Micro, Alyssa Fitzpatrick of Elastic, and Alex Lewis of Genesys – about what it takes to create value-generating relationships with ISVs. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: About Our Guest Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

The term "ecosystem" has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, steadily replacing "channels" to denote indirect sales processes. By definition, ecosystems is the collaboration between two or more companies to address a customer's needs. Nevertheless, there is a trend where the term "ecosystems" is also applied to describe channel populations and communities, leading to some confusion. This conflation of terms can set unrealistic expectations about what ecosystems are and what outcomes they can achieve. In this episode of "Changing Channels," Channelnomics's Larry Walsh and Bryn Nettesheim address the nuances of the ecosystem definition and seek to clarify the current trend's implications. They explore the distinct characteristics of ecosystems and how these collaborative networks can be leveraged effectively in the technology sector. This discussion aims to demystify the concept and ensure a common understanding within the industry. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli Twitter: https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: About Bryn Nettesheim https://www.linkedin.com/in/brynnettesheim/ Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

In the latest episode of the podcast “Changing Channels,” host Larry Walsh spoke with Trevor Vickery, the vice president and general manager of Intel's global partners and support organization, about the concept of the "Siliconomy" – or the Silicon Economy – and how semiconductors are driving a new wave of innovation and opportunity. The Siliconomy, a term coined by Intel, refers to the ubiquity of semiconductors in our digitally connected world. As Vickery explained, the need for compute power is growing exponentially, with the market expected to reach a trillion dollars in the next few years. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for connected devices and the need to modernize cities to accommodate the growing urban population. Intel sees its role in the Siliconomy as not only a supplier of technology but also as a key player in diversifying the semiconductor supply chain. The company is investing in expanding its manufacturing capacity in the U.S., Asia-Pacific, and Europe to ensure a more resilient and diverse supply chain. The conversation also touched on the importance of partnerships in the Silicon Economy. Vickery emphasized that no one company can go at it alone and that partnerships are critical to building solutions that meet the needs of customers. He highlighted Intel's Partner Alliance program as a mechanism for scaling these partnerships and bringing together ISVs, GSIs, and other partners to co-engineer solutions. When asked about the potential for new types of partners to emerge in the Siliconomy, Vickery acknowledged that Intel may need to get closer to the end consumers of technology to understand their unique use cases and workloads. However, he also stressed the importance of scale and the need for open standards to ensure that solutions can be easily deployed and run anywhere. Looking ahead, Vickery outlined Intel’s agenda for facilitating the vision of the Siliconomy. He emphasized the need to work more closely with partners to develop the ecosystem, co-engineer solutions, and innovate on both the technology and business model side. As the world becomes increasingly digitally connected, the Siliconomy is poised to drive significant growth and opportunity. With partnerships and innovation at the forefront, companies like Intel are working to ensure that the infrastructure and solutions are in place to support this growth and drive the next wave of technological advancement.

The tech industry is the generator of great wealth and a contributor to economic growth. The industry has provided trillions of dollars in opportunities to entrepreneurs and investors around the world, and it has offered a pathway to a better life for millions. The last two years haven’t been kind to the tech industry. Many companies and their partners are struggling against strong economic headwinds resulting from the post-COVID recovery and geopolitical instability. While tech companies continue to generate profits, their operating costs are going up. The biggest impediments to performance and growth: Inflation, interest rates, automation, and general uncertainty. In 2023, the tech industry laid off more than 260,000 jobs, with many job losses going uncounted. The downsizing rate more than doubled compared to 2022, and the trend is continuing into 2024. We’re at the beginning of the year, and tech companies across the industry are already planning more job cuts in their pursuit of “optimization” and “efficiency.” Some of the downsizing is justified to control costs and maintain profitability. However, the departments often first in line for cuts – marketing, operations, administration – tend to have the highest numbers of women and people of color, leading to these layoffs disproportionately affecting minorities. This is ironic since the tech industry has been a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. In this episode of Changing Channels, host Larry Walsh is joined by David Lee, a software engineer turned corporate transformation advisor and DEI advocate, to discuss the layoff trend. Lee, who is also the author of “The Only One in the Room: The Unwritten Rules of Being Black in Tech,” shares his insights on the reasons behind the layoff trend and its impact on the tech industry's progress towards achieving its diversity objectives. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli Twitter: https://twitter.com/Channelnomics About Larry Walsh: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmwalsh2112/ • Twitter: https://twitter.com/lmwalsh_CN • Official Bio: https://channelnomics.com/team/larry-walsh/ About David Lee • Official Website: https://www.iamdavidlee.com/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/identityjedi/ • Book on Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/yzhpx2tp Changing Channels is a production of Channelnomics, a brand of 2112 Enterprises LLC Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. © 2112 Enterprises LLC

Paul Hunter, managing director of North America at HPE, joins Changing Channel’s Larry Walsh to discuss the traditional data center hardware company’s transition to the Everything-as-a-Service model and what it meant to its channel program. In recent years, vendors across the tech industry have wholeheartedly embraced the Everything-as-a-Service (XaaS) model. This revolutionary approach involves selling technology in various forms through subscription and consumption-based models, which offer numerous benefits. The appeal of this model is undeniable: It generates recurring and predictable revenue while eliminating the uncertainties of sales cycles. While companies that were born in the cloud or have a service-based foundation find it relatively straightforward to adopt the XaaS model, traditional hardware vendors and some software publishers face significant challenges. These companies have long-established transactional sales practices deeply ingrained among partners and customers. Convincing sellers to shift their product positioning to a service-oriented approach and embrace new compensation plans is no easy task. Likewise, getting partners to adopt product sales that require presenting different value propositions and costs can be equally challenging. However, the lure of capturing recurring revenue is simply irresistible. As a result, many hardware vendors are undertaking the transition to XaaS sales models and channel programs, albeit at a slower pace than anticipated due to change management complexities. Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) stands out as a prime example of a company that has strategically embraced the service-based model. HPE introduced its cloud-based GreenLake platform in 2017 and set a primary objective of generating the majority of its revenue through service and hybrid infrastructure sales. Over the past five years, HPE has continuously restructured its internal organization and external channel programs to align with the XaaS model. Its efforts are paying off, as the company is well on its way to achieving its revenue goals through service sales in the near future. HPE's accelerating transition to XaaS couldn't come at a better time. According to IDC, a considerable 71% of enterprises are shifting their workloads from public clouds to hybrid and on-premises infrastructure. This move is driven by the desire for enhanced administrative capabilities and cost control. Simultaneously, partners are identifying increasing opportunities to provide managed and professional services alongside XaaS and hybrid engagements. HPE recognizes these trends as significant drivers of growth. In this edition of Changing Channels, we bring you an insightful discussion between Paul Hunter, the managing director of North America for HPE, and Channelnomics Larry Walsh. They delve into the vast opportunities presented to vendors and partners by the XaaS model, highlighting the successes and setbacks that HPE has experienced during the transition process. Moreover, they provide invaluable insights into how businesses can capitalize on the flourishing XaaS and hybrid infrastructure markets. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli Twitter: https://twitter.com/Channelnomics Changing Channels: A Channelnomics Production Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. Episode Resources Host Larry Walsh: https://bit.ly/3beZfOa Guest Paul Hunter: https://tinyurl.com/2utcv8pu Channelnomics Podcasts Changing Channels: https://tinyurl.com/4xfvevbn The Network Effect: https://tinyurl.com/bdzzkwtb In the Margins: https://tinyurl.com/2sun9z5s © 2112 Enterprises LLC

Eric Hembree, director of Internet of Things at Ingram Micro, joins Changing Channel’s Larry Walsh to discuss the state of Extended Reality and IoT in the channel. The reputation of Extended Reality (XR) technology is taking a hit as some consumer vendors are pulling back on their market development ambitions. But in the commercial segment, XR is just getting warmed up. Ingram Micro, one of the world’s largest technology distributors, partnered with Channelnomics to study the state of XR — an umbrella term that includes augmented and virtual reality — in the channel. The research found that, while only a minority of partners are selling and supporting these products, their business is robust and growing. The same is true of IoT, which represents a $2 trillion opportunity and has been promised as the next wave of technology innovation and growth for the past decade. Despite all of its promises, IoT remains a relatively small presence in the channel compared to more conventional technologies. Yet research developed by Channelnomics and Ingram Micro found that resellers and integrators focusing on IoT are doing well and growing rapidly. In this special podcast, Eric Hembree, director of IoT at Ingram Micro, joins Changing Channel’s Larry Walsh to review the research conducted by Ingram Micro and Channelnomics, identify the current and emerging opportunities in XR and IoT, and discuss what it takes for vendors and resellers to leverage the channel to get these technologies to market. Follow us, Like us, and Subscribe! Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NC6Vli Twitter: https://twitter.com/Channelnomics Changing Channels: A Channelnomics Production Follow @Channelnomics to stay current on the latest #research, #bestpractices, and #resources. At @Channelnomics — the voice of thought leadership — we define #channel trends, chart new #GTM strategies, and #partner with industry leaders to champion #diversity in the channel. Episode Resources Host Larry Walsh: https://bit.ly/3beZfOa Guest Eric Hembree: https://tinyurl.com/26w9rwbu Download Reports: https://tinyurl.com/4thvfuv4 Channelnomics Podcasts Changing Channels: https://tinyurl.com/4xfvevbn The Network Effect: https://tinyurl.com/bdzzkwtb In the Margins: https://tinyurl.com/2sun9z5s © 2112 Enterprises LLC