Purpose of this blog

This blog is intended to serve the needs of three parties:

1) Value-add resellers (VARs), system integrators, consultants and other technology solution providers that recommend and configure solutions for implementation

2) Vendors: manufacturers, software providers, and distributors whose offerings are dependent on localized support and customization

3) Me: So there are no hidden agendas I'll state that I am in job transition and my mission to connect the above audiences is not totally altruistic. I am pursuing this activity so that I may:

• Stay in touch with the needs of an audience I know from 10+ years of channel marketing
• Develop local relationships to complement national relationship already in place - thereby establishing myself as a trusted advisor with firm ties to the local base and job security in channel sales for whichever technology company I choose
• Have a sense of accomplishment prior to and related to my next full-time employment

I have been speaking to local owners and business development people about their business challenges and opportunities and am identifying common themes. I will be collecting observations, advice, and links to relevant information. I'm looking for your own contributions, suggestions for future topics, links, and recommendation for individuals I should seek out.

The feasibility of providing relevant content to an audience this large is to be determined. Can VARs that sell software integration services, video surveillance, computer systems, internet service, database configuration, telecom? Given the title VAR - should a consultant who sells only their time be included? This will be defined based on where the audience takes us.

For the near term, some of the items I plan to address are:

• Market Development Fund Strategies: There's always $ out there - but are the hoops I have to jump through to get them realistic for me?
• Regional/ Emerging Technologies: i.e WiMax - Does the upcoming launch of Clearwire impact my business?
• Business Expansion Issues: Credit Crunch?, List Buy? Partnership issues? Tips on how to manage a referral network, hiring personnel?

What do you think? How might this be tweaked to be more relevant to you?