CommVault makes MSP play with Softcat
CommVault (NASDAQ: CVLT) is joining with VAR Softcat to launch its Service Provider License Agreement (SPLA) programme, which will provide Managed Service Providers (MSPs) with access to the Simpana software on a monthly pay-per-use model.
As the first of several CommVault SPLA programmes to be rolled out across EMEA, the vendor is making use of Softcat’s existing service provider licensing partnerships with Microsoft and VMware to provide MSPs with a ‘one stop shop’ for their hosted needs including platform, virtualisation and now data and information management.
MSPs will be able to build their own on-premises or hosted services based on CommVault’s Simpana software to deliver data protection, disaster recovery, archiving and search/compliance services, while long-term CommVault reseller Softcat will handle all MSP subscription licensing for Simpana software.
Nigel Tozer, CommVault’s business development director for EMEA (pictured) explains that while service providers have used its software in the past, it was based on “complex bespoke contracts” that took time for all participants to agree. “The world moves on – most service providers now much prefer a subscription model,” he explains.
Now, as well as standardising its MSP business, Tozer says the deal with Softcat will increase CommVault’s exposure to service providers. “We are in use in the service provider environment, but we’re not as well known as we could be,” he comments.
“It will also increase our scalability in the wider MSP market,” he adds, noting Simpana can be added on to solutions based on the VAR’s relationships with Microsoft and VMware.
“Already working with over 400 service providers each month, Softcat is a well recognised leader in subscription reselling and their experience in running these distribution programmes made them an obvious choice for us,” comments Steven Rose, vice president, EMEA & ASEAN for CommVault.
Says David Simpson, sales director for Softcat: “Services providers can build Simpana software into their own hosting offerings without the complexity and costs associated with usual contracting with ISVs. This is a win-win for MSPs, CommVault and Softcat and we’re looking forward to helping CommVault focus on this rapidly growing services provider market.”
CommVault SPLA licenses include access to CommVault’s support services and training programmes which are available on-site, in a classroom environment or for free online. CommVault’s global professional services team is available to partners that require help with design or implementation, and MSPs signing a SPLA agreement also gain access to the CommVault PartnerAdvantage Programme and the associated benefits.
The partnership has already signed its first signatories, and will officially launch this week at IP Expo. Tozer adds that CommVault will look to sign similar deals with VARs in other territories in the future.
