Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) announced at its second Global Partner Summit on Thursday that it will expand and reorganize its Cloud Platform partner program to provide a path for any company to participate in the program. The search engine giant has also launched a Technology track to support its Google Apps partner program, and help its partners create software for its Apps Marketplace.
Google will now have three classes of cloud partners
Previously, Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) had only two classes of cloud partners. The Service Partners group included resellers and other businesses that provide consulting and implementation services. Technology Partners included vendors that sell tools used to integrate with Google’s platform. But now the company will have a three tier channel program. The top level will be called Premium Partners, who will get access to the premium level services along with the core program benefits.
The second level will be called Authorized Partners, who get relationship management, branding and access to online training and resources. The entry-level tier is called Registered Partners, who will have access to online resources and training. The expanded cloud program will provide partners a highly economic incentive to pursue cloud opportunities. So far, Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) has 161 Cloud Platform partners. The new program would allow more businesses to participate.
Google to offer lucrative perks to VIP Premier Technology partners
Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) also unveiled a technology track for its Apps partner program. The company’s Apps Marketplace currently has more than 750 services. Under the technology track, the third party developers who build tools and apps that complement Google Apps, will now be considered as partners. The Mountain View-based company will provide them with marketing, sales and technical support. Google said that the idea behind this program is to reward tech partners who have helped build this ecosystem. Partners that make it into the VIP Premier Technology track will enjoy several extra perks, including premier placement in the Apps Marketplace. To achieve that status, they will have to have an install base of more than 100,000 users.
Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) shares were little changed at $1,219.14 in pre-market trading Friday.
