Computer manufacturers are feeling enormous pressure to present cutting edge products to the public. Even when the latest and greatest hits the shelves (preferably before competing products), new problems can present themselves. One of the biggest issues in terms of asset returns management is regarding the placement of older technology. Sharing shelf space with newer models is not typically considered an ideal situation. This means that, as technological advances are introduced to the market, manufacturers are then stuck with older technology, discontinued products and outdated accessories. In an effort to solve the problem that short IT product lifecycles present, many major manufacturers are actively taking part in growing and shaping a secondary market with partner programs.



There are partner programs in place within the computer technology and equipment industry, designed to offset the increasingly short lifecycle of products. When computer equipment manufacturers initiate partner programs with qualified resellers, the lifecycles of manufacturer products can be extended by as much as triple the length of its original lifecycle within the primary market. This has serious positive impact for those in charge of asset returns management for their business. In other words, the end user is not the only party that will be positively impacted by the implementation of partner programs. Manufacturers, leasing or financing companies, computer distributers, system integrators, and most any organization within the private and public sector can realize a better rate of return on technology investments through partner programs.

Reselling partners within the computer secondary market obtain a vast array of technology from various sources. Among their purchases are surplus or overstocked goods, discontinued computer equipment, off-lease items, refurbished technology, and customer returns. All of these items are undesirable and unpractical for manufacturers to keep on their shelves, but they still see the value in keeping the items on the market. That is why computer technology manufactures will initiate partner programs with certain reputable global resellers.

If your organization is like most others, you are facing the challenges of asset returns management, the short lifecycle and subsequent termination of assets. As such, you are likely considering instigating or becoming a part of one or several technology partnership programs. As manufacturer participating in partner programs you can expect to achieve a longer lifecycle for otherwise obsolete computer products without compromising the consumer's interest in your new product introduction plans. As an added bonus, your organizations will be able to retain positive business relationships and feelings with existing clients have made significant investments in your technology and products and who are not ready to invest in an entirely new technology simply because they are in need of a few upgrades, accessories or additional computer.

Initiating partner programs with resellers will help better handle asset returns management will assist in meeting and surpassing inventory objectives as well as achieve market value for older or surplus technology and equipment. Resellers will generally take control of unwanted inventory quickly and efficiently and assist you in providing an ongoing supply and support to consumers through a diverse range of channels and connections. In doing so, resellers will ensure that you will be able to bring out new technology without liquidating older products, affecting brand integrity, or compromising the introduction of your new products.

Partnership programs do not only assist manufacturers with asset returns management, they will benefit end users as well. It truly is a win-win situation for everyone involved.