Some people c confuse the roles of a VAR system integrator and system integrators, and in reality it is a very easy mistake to make. The truth is that these two companies do overlap in many respects which is why there is a misunderstanding about the roles of each. The key difference here is that the first example if that of a value added reseller, which is what we are going to be taking a look into today.
If you are starting a small to midsize business then using a system integrator is critical to making sure that you have a high quality computer system from which to work with. Given just how important IT is to us all these days, all businesses should by hyper focused on building a solid foundation on which to start. Let’s take a look then at what a VAR system integrator is, and who they are working with.
Reseller Model
A VAR is someone who will resell hardware, networking and software products to businesses, this is their primary function. Additionally however these businesses will also be able to offer unified IT solutions to the clients which they work with. This is why so many assume a VAR to be a systems integrator, because of this extra service which many of them are able to offer. In reality it makes much more sense for a client to allow the company selling them the products, to set it up and make it run in a way that is best for the business.
Who They Work With
Most large scale companies or businesses which are heavily backed will be much more likely to use a systems integrator for their IT needs. A reseller however is able to offer a similar service for even less money. The resale of the hardware and network products comes in at a lower cost than what a systems integrator may charge, and so too will the set up fees. Another key difference which we see then, between a systems integrator and a VAR, is that the latter will work more often with small and midsize businesses, working on smaller operations.
Startups
Many startups which are looking after their finances will also look to work with value added resellers. This is of course because they are looking at having the best set up possible, without having to spend a huge amount of money to do so. Cash strapped businesses at this stage of their plan often don’t invest anything and try to do things on their own. Smart startups however understand the need for professional help and will therefore choose to use a VAR in order to make their money stretch as far as possible.
As you can see, whilst these two businesses do differ a great deal, there are enough similarities for us to understand why they are often confused for one another. This however is the fundamental role of a VAR systems integrator.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Business category
Leave a Reply