How sustainability has changed the Channel’s outlook on partnerships

This guide forms the latest instalment in its Technology Channel insight campaign, ‘EVOLVE - Voice of the Channel’, which continues to provide actionable, free-to-view market insights.

The report, which explores the findings of the latest research commissioned by Agilitas, discusses the importance of building strong and sustainable alliances, the need to take accountability for a business’ impact on the environment and how Technology Channel companies need to demonstrate their use of innovative technologies to track ESG objectives.

Sustainability is no longer something that can be achieved through small actions or gestures; it requires a complete transformation of business processes and even deeper collaboration with partners. It has been encouraging to see that Technology Channel decision-makers have shown optimism for the future, with 40% of company culture supporting sustainability efforts, 39% believing a framework to measure the sustainability of partnerships, and a further 34% of employees having a clear vision regarding commitment to sustainability.

Another area highlighted was the importance of taking responsibility when actions fall short, not just focusing on business successes. The process can be made easier by choosing partners who are on the same path, or even those that are ahead, who can offer advice and support for getting to that next level, with increased flexibility to meet changing partner needs ranked highly at 38% by survey respondents.

Interestingly, MSPs and VARs both rated increased flexibility above average at 43% and 42% respectively. Additionally, VARs scored project collaboration outside of SLAs above the average at 42%, whilst MSPs felt that a personalised approach to service was also an important factor.

Almost half of those asked revealed that they evaluate profit and purpose in equal measure. However, 12% later admitted that profit is primarily prioritised over purpose, a split that was consistent across each sector.

This was reflected in confidence in the Channel’s ability to build these partnerships, with 82% selecting 7 or more out of a possible 10. With 86% of respondents suggesting that the value that strategic partnerships could bring would be highly beneficial to their businesses, meaning SMEs need to ensure they don’t get left behind.

“The Technology Channel has made significant strides in choosing the right partners, selecting those whose values not only align but also offer longevity that can help the business progress in its current sustainability efforts. It has been evident that confidence has remained high but did vary across companies of different sizes, while also highlighting the industry sectors that are not prioritising the creation of good quality and rewarding collaborations,” commented Warren Playford, Head of Sales at Agilitas.

“There is no overnight fix, and the importance of accountability for areas that are currently lacking is key to making progress, for example sustainability. According to Deloitte, one in every three companies surveyed said an error could easily go undetected in their sustainability data, so a move toward accountable sustainability can’t come soon enough.”