Ericsson Systems business unit had suffered downturn in volume. It felt it could no longer afford direct sales force, and decided to move from an entirely direct model to a 100% indirect sales force model.
We were retained to design and implement the global strategy for this shift. During our 23-month engagement, we:
- helped client refine strategy on types of channels needed;
- designed partner value prop & recruiting program;
- created process for identifying & vetting potential partners;
- designed a completely new onboarding program;
- streamlined their partner agreement process;
- created partner performance program
- created processes to support the entire indirect channel program
The initial plan from the client anticipated a 36-month process. With our guidance and coaching, the client was able to create and implement a complex, multi-channel go-to-market strategy in 105 countries in half that time.
Findings
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We worked with the senior management team to evaluate the opportunity, compare competitors, investigate regulatory requirements, assess channel entry options, and model costs.
Solutions
- Established a global distributor network and introduced Women’s Health portfolio
- Made recommendations to create branding for monitoring devices and improve cost position
- Identified distributors and launched respiratory line in five countries
Results
- Sales for women's health products grew by 20% over a period of 12 months after launch
- Sales for respiratory products grew by 65% in year 1
- Completed a pricing analysis for monitoring devices across 10 countries