Channel gets it’s own version of LinkedIn with Channeliser

Channeliser, a global network for IT companies that enables vendors and channel partners to improve how commercial IT partnerships are sourced, formed and nurtured, has launched today.

Channeliser is free to join and vendor neutral, and enables IT vendors, VARs, IT services firms and distributors to “intelligently locate the most suitable partners”, said its backers.

The UK-owned network has been founded by Jacqui Rand and Anne Lambton, two technology entrepreneurs who have held many channel roles, including at Microsoft UK. Channeliser has already signed up 1,700 members across 65 countries.

Rand said: “IT firms waste a huge amount of time searching for and building partnerships and we know that significant improvements are possible. Channeliser greatly improves matters.”

Gary Preston, founder of UK VAR Burrium Data, said: “Channeliser will enable us to more easily expand our security solution portfolio, and we also value access to relevant industry knowledge through the new social and community functionality that isn’t cluttered by irrelevant content.”

Channeliser estimates an average time saving of “around 30 percent” for a vendor to locate, identify and engage with the right channel partners.

Andrew Mennie, from UK software firm PrecisionPoint, said: “Beyond the cost savings gained from finding and engaging with potential partners on Channeliser, we are also building and managing our own group on Channeliser – it’s like our own little partner portal or community.”

While the network is free to join with basic search abilities, premium search and marketing services cost between £10 and £30 per month.

@AntonySavvas