Citrix has rolled out the first of several new technical certifications. By taking a solution-based approach, these certifications provide partners with the breadth of skills required to design, deploy and support holistic Citrix solutions.
From a strategic standpoint, the solution approach aligns with the evolution of Citrix technologies as well as the top IT trends and market demands including mobile, cloud, collaboration and virtualisation. From a practical perspective, the new certifications are both simplified and streamlined to make it easier for partners to develop their skills with speed and efficiency.
The new certifications further expand partners’ expertise in Citrix, with an increase in the breadth of valuable skills represented. At the same time, the new certification structure has been significantly concentrated, requiring fewer examinations and less time out of the field to achieve.
The simplified certification process makes it easier for partners to build and validate technical skills around the latest Citrix solutions, establish competitive differentiation, expand into new markets, find new revenue opportunities within existing customer organisations and increase deal sizes. Additionally, the new certifications help partners comply with updated requirements per the new Citrix solution advisor program announced earlier this year in May.
Tom Flink, vice president, worldwide channels and market development sales for Citrix, said: "Because well-trained partners are fundamental to Citrix growth, we continue to evolve our channel program in an effort to make it easier for our partners to do business with Citrix, and help them identify and capitalise on new revenue streams. The new simplified structure and guidelines make it easier for our partners to achieve and stay up-to-date on the latest Citrix certifications."
At all levels of certification, IT professionals will gain the knowledge and skills required to support the entire solution, through various phases of the project lifecycle. Partners with more certified staff are enabled to be more strategic and successful, and achieve greater customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Steve White, program director, IDC Alliances & Channels Research, said: "IDC has always been impressed with Citrix’s partner centric approach to building out their partner program. The introduction of their new certifications further reflects this partner centricity, with a simplified structure built on the premise of allowing partners to get their skills recognised, but also take less time out of the field.
"As the Citrix solutions portfolio continues to diversify, these certifications will allow Citrix partners to improve their skills, differentiate themselves, and drive better customer outcomes."
