8x8 has lifted the lid on the next generation of its international channel programme, Channel 2.0.
The move builds on the support and partner programme launched in the UK earlier this year and is designed to enable 8x8 partners to accelerate growth by taking advantage of the industry shift from product-based on premises solutions to cloud communications.
As part of Channel 2.0, 8x8 announced several developments including partners and customers; the PartnerConnect portal (that will offer self-service and automation); enhanced sales and technical training and new partner certifications; along with expanded channel enablement offerings, including marketing support.
In addition to new global relationships 8x8 has expanded strategic partnerships into new regions including Avant, CDW and Intelisys into the UK, and Exsel Group into Scotland.
8x8 has experienced steady growth from the channel with 16 of the company's top 25 deals in fiscal 2016 (ended March 31, 2016) coming through the channel, which represents a 150%-plus increase from fiscal 2015.
In addition, the 8x8 global channel team has doubled over the past year with employees now in North America, Europe and Australia.
"Legacy communications systems are unable to keep pace with the constantly evolving needs of today's global and mobile workforce," said Vik Verma, CEO, 8x8.
"Retrofitting traditional on-premises systems to meet these customer requirements is a thankless and near impossible task.
"8x8, with our international partners, is driving the transformation from a product-centric to services cloud model, enabling our partners and their customers to seamlessly migrate to a more flexible, services-cloud environment."