F5 Networks Revamps Partner Program to Match Software, Services Push

F5 Networks is targeting flexibility and long-term profitability in its latest partner program refresh.

F5’s Colleen McMillan

The Seattle-based application delivery provider has announced F5 Unity+, a channel program tailored for “the evolution of the market, F5 and partner business models.” The program rewards partners for investing in new focus areas and offers joint go-to-market initiatives.

“Our partners are core to everything we do and a critical part of F5’s overall growth strategy,” said Colleen McMillan, vice president of global channels at F5. “Unity+ demonstrates our commitment to the channel. This is not a one-time investment but a sustained effort to ensure mutual success through uniquely collaborative relationships and the best partner experience that drives greater global customer adoption.”

F5 has been moving toward a cloud-focused and software-based corporate strategy. It acquired Ngnix earlier this year to “enable multicloud application services across all environments.” F5 is keeping partners aligned with its vision through the Unity+ update.

“Digital transformation is touching every one of our customers and this is changing how they want to purchase and consume technology. In this environment, partners are critical to delivering a superior customer experience,” McMillan said. “Unity+ is built to be flexible, simple, and profitable, offering the differentiation and benefits partners need to grow their business with our expanding portfolio of application solutions and services.”

The program will officially take effect next month, but partners will begin earning qualifications for fiscal year 2021 based on the updated requirements.

Brian Ortbals, vice president of advanced technologies for F5 partner WWT, said the program refresh allows his company and the vendor to grow their businesses together.

“We are excited by the way F5 is embracing simplicity and flexibility in addressing the realities of how our business model is changing,” Ortbals said.

McMillan explained in a video interview that partners were asking for more deal registration protection and sales enablement opportunities.

We recently honored McMillan as one of the technology industry’s 51 top channel chiefs.