Websense launches new global channel partner programme

Websense, Inc. has launched a new unified, global channel partner programme that provides channel partners with a simple and flexible means to drive growth and profitability in the security market.

The new Websense ChannelConnect Global Partner Programme combines the best programme features and benefits from Websense and SurfControl channel partner programmes worldwide.  The programme makes it easier for channel partners to engage, sell and support Websenses growing suite of intelligent content protection solutions.  In addition, Websenses ChannelConnect Partner Programme offers a single framework that scales to meet the needs of small and medium-size business (SMB) to enterprise-focused channel partners.

Strong channel partners are essential to Websenses ongoing success and help us execute against our vision and drive more value to customers around the globe, said Doug Wride, president, Websense.  Websenses commitment to our channel partners and diligent focus on delivering the right programmes, resources and infrastructure will help ensure our mutual success and build a rewarding partnership.

To develop the new global partner programme, Websense worked with both Websense and SurfControl channel partners.  Through one-on-one meetings, partner conferences and surveys of both partner communities, Websense garnered feedback which helped shape the new programme.  Websense Partner Advisory Council members were also vocal contributors -- offering valuable feedback on programme offerings and key 2008 initiatives.  Websense will continue to leverage its relationship with ChannelConnect partners to ensure future enhancements bolster partner value. 

Websense acquired SurfControl on October 3, 2007.  The acquisition expanded the Websense content protection portfolio and doubled the number of Websense customers. 

As a long-time SurfControl channel partner, Ive been impressed with Websense, its open communications and demonstrated commitment to SurfControl channel partners during the acquisition process , said Lisa Carter, president of SpartanTec Inc., based in Loris, South Carolina.  I believe working with Websense is great news for both my company and my customers.  I now have access to leading security technology along with a world-class channel partner programme.

 

New program elements include:

A flexible framework that addresses the diverse and growing needs of the Websense partner community.  As Websense continues to grow, so do the types of partners with which the company forms relationships.  Websense designed the new ChannelConnect programme to address the specific needs of a number of different types of partners and their business models.  Websense has created a program for solution providers such as value-added resellers, large account resellers and direct marketing resellers, as well as Authorised Training Partners and technology alliance partners.  Websense plans to expand the ChannelConnect programme for additional partner types, including systems integrators, in the second half of 2008.
 
Online portal makes it easier for partners to access a variety of valuable resources, training and marketing support materials.  The new ChannelConnect Partner Portal streamlines the process for partners who want to access a variety of online partner-ready Websense resources.  With the click of a mouse, ChannelConnect partners can access comprehensive product information, competitive product guides, marketing campaign kits, online deal registration, product renewal management, training and certification exams, and other resources.
 
New product bundles designed to help channel partners build recurring revenue streams.  With an expanded security product portfolio that includes both acquired and organically developed technologies, Websense now offers channel partners new sources of cross-selling and recurring revenue opportunities.  Websense plans to offer bundled solutions encompassing Web security, messaging security and data security.

Websense is one of our most strategic and valued partners, offering us a portfolio of solutions that meet our clients' business needs," said Ves Bjelakovic, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Toronto-area channel partner Lanworks, Inc. "We have received a great deal of partner support from Websense and have already acquired new sales and customers through our joint marketing programmes. In both the short term and long, we expect to see many more successes working with Websense in Canada."

 

About Websense, Inc.

Websense, Inc. (NASDAQ: WBSN) protects more than 42 million employees from external and internal computer security threats.  Using a combination of pre-emptive ThreatSeeker malicious content identification and categorisation technology and information leak prevention technology, Websense helps make computing safe and productive.  Distributed through its global network of channel partners, Websense software helps organisations block malicious code, prevent the loss of confidential information and manage Internet and wireless access. 

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