RE: Dealerships

[Andrei Link]

>We are currently working towards establishing dealerships for our software product.  >I am interested in any advise in this regard ...  pitfalls, problems to avoid, positive >ways of going about it, examples of the type / level of documentation needed, etc ....   Steven: This is not a direct answer to your question but you may find it relevant. If your product is designed with Electronic Software Distribution (ESD) in mind, I would consider using online distribution networks to complement the traditional, dealer-based approach. Using a company like, for example, Digital River, you can reach potential buyers through your online store and the stores of Digital River's channel partners. This comes at a price (setup fee plus commissions payable on each sale) but your product can achieve high visibility in a relatively short time. Of course, there are other companies serving different segments of the ESD market, plus a DIY store is also feasible, so research, brainstorming and cost/benefit analysis are required. A couple of other notes (this is not an exhaustive list): regardless of the distribution model (electronic or traditional), it is essential to have a robust and efficient license distribution system as well as product support and upgrade strategy. And your pricing structure would need to take into consideration direct and channel sales if you decide to have both. You are welcome to contact me off-line for details. Kind regards,   Andrei Link Trimble Navigation New Zealand Ltd [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.trimble.com