This is a CRN article from the Dell-Silverback conference a week and a half ago but I thought the timing was good to post the link. I am curious what others think of Dell’s moves into the SMB MSP space?
http://www.crn.com/article/printableArticle.jhtml?articleId=205900650
I personally don’t think they have an understanding of the market or what a sub 100 person business needs from an MSP but they sure are snatching up tools providers and making a stink about coming after this space.
I have had no fewer than three dell reps, one Silverback rep, and a former Everdream rep (also snatched up by Dell) contact me about how to get into this space. Needless to say I told them all the reasons I don’t believe they will make it in this space anytime soon but I am not sure they believe that building client loyalty as an MSP takes more than slapping a management tool on a desktop or PC.
Let me know what you think about some of the big guys like Dell making a move on the SMB MSP space and trying to sell direct.
I personally welcome them along with their gazillion dollar marketing budget. I believe that they will server to educate our clients about the value of working with an MSP, making it that much easier for you and I to grow our business through superior service and perhaps a little Dell bashing along the way!
JC
