Based on feedback from partners, D-Link Systems Inc. has enhanced its VIP (Value in Partnership) Partner Program. The Fountain Valley, Calif.-based networking giant is focusing changes on Registered-, Silver-, and Gold-level partner requirements; 
the Volume Incentive Rebate (VIR) program; deal registration; a new GovEd discount program; and technology specializations.
Registered Partners: Resellers become Registered partners when they enroll. Benefits include deal registration, eligibility for special pricing on competitive bids, access to the partner portal and training center, and promotions and discounts.
Silver Partners: Silver partners receive all Registered benefits, and demonstrate a solid understanding of D-Link’s switching and wireless products. These partners also earn a quarterly VIR up to 7 percent, are eligible for sales leads, can attend a quarterly product roadmap briefing, and are eligible for what’s known as the Bounty Program, which pays a rebate when a registered deal does not go through.
Gold Partners: In addition to all Registered and Silver benefits, Gold partners are highly trained and certified on wireless and switching products and are capable of delivering complex solutions. Gold partners also earn the highest VIR—up to 10 percent—have top priority for sales leads, and are eligible for the new D-Link Partner Council.
The enhanced VIP program also offers technology specializations, enabling partners to demonstrate proficiency in one of two product technologies outside of D-Link’s core products: data storage or IP surveillance. These partners will receive priority access to leads and 5 percent up-front discounts on products in their specialization category, as well as special branding as a technology “preferred” partner.
In another program change, the discount in D-Link’s deal registration program is being moved to the front end, making it more immediate. The actual discount amounts are also increased so all VIP partners qualify for the same discounts, which will be tiered based on deal size: 6 percent off MSRP discounts for deals between $5,000 and $20,000; 10 percent off MSRP discounts for deals over $20,000.
Further, partners that sell to government or educational institutions will now receive a 5 percent up-front discount when purchasing from distribution. The discount applies to all D-Link business solutions products and is available exclusively to VIP partners.
To learn more, go to www.dlink.com.
