Channel Champions Emerge in Computer Reseller News Research

Strategic Insights -

Information-technology resellers have spoken, and Hewlett-Packard, Novell, and IBM have emerged as clear leaders in the industry. Conducted by CMP Media's Computer Reseller News, the seventh annual "Channel Champion" survey identified these companies as top performers across 26 product categories. The rankings were based on reseller satisfaction scores, evaluating factors such as product quality, reliability, price/performance, and compatibility.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hewlett-Packard secured top rankings in three categories: Scanners, Unix Servers, and Laser Printers.
  • Novell led in Network Management, Network Operating Systems, and Groupware Platforms.
  • IBM won in Notebooks, PC Workstations, and Unix Workstations.
  • Multiple-category winners included Dell Computer Corp. for Desktops and PC Servers, and Adobe Systems Inc. for Graphics Software and Web Design Tools.
  • Category winners also included Acer for CD-ROM Drives, ATI Technologies Inc. for Graphics Boards, Seagate for Tape Backup, and Epson America, Inc. for Inkjet Printers.
  • The survey assessed factors like product quality, reliability, and price/performance, along with technical support, return policies, and cooperative marketing programs.
  • 1,079 resellers participated in the survey, conducted by Answers Research, Inc.

Statistics:

  • 26 product categories were covered in the survey.
  • 3 categories were won by Hewlett-Packard: Scanners, Unix Servers, and Laser Printers.
  • 3 categories were won by Novell: Network Management, Network Operating Systems, and Groupware Platforms.
  • 3 categories were won by IBM: Notebooks, PC Workstations, and Unix Workstations.
  • 1,079 resellers participated in the survey.

Sources:

  • "Channel Champion" survey conducted by Computer Reseller News, a publication of CMP Media INC.
  • Computer Reseller News Special Reports Editor, Al Senia quote.
  • Advertising Age's Business Marketing named Computer Reseller News among "The Best of the Business Press" for 1999.
  • CMP Media INC. information.