Telecom Reseller

“We eliminate CapEx, embed Zero Trust by default, and lower TCO by 30–40%.” — Niraj Singh, Chief Business Development Officer, Nile Niraj Singh, Chief Business Development Officer at Nile, joined Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, to discuss how Nile is redefining enterprise networking with a consumption-based, AI-driven model built for telcos and MSPs. Unlike legacy vendors that sell hardware, licenses, and bolt-on security, Nile delivers Networking-as-a-Service (NaaS) with: 100% OpEx, no CapEx — fully consumption-based pricing Campus Zero Trust built in — isolating every user, device, and app to stop malware propagation AI-native automation — real-time telemetry, anomaly detection, and self-healing networks Lifecycle management included — upgrades, patches, and RMAs fully covered Nile backs its model with a four-nines SLA and money-back guarantee, a rare commitment in enterprise networking. For telcos and MSPs, the impact is significant: Reduced churn by embedding in-building networks alongside connectivity Higher margins thanks to lower TCO (30–40% savings over five years) New revenue streams through bundled, end-to-end secure services Improved NPS with guaranteed reliability and simplified operations “Telcos often compete on commodity connectivity. By partnering with Nile, they can deliver end-to-end SLAs, differentiate services, and retain customers,” Singh explained. Learn more at nilesecure.com.

“We are now branding ourselves as the trusted infrastructure supporter of AI,” says Scott Eaton, Sr. Director, Partner Management at Lumen, in a conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during ScanSource Partner First. Eaton explained that Lumen, built on the combined legacies of CenturyLink, Level 3, Savvis, and Global Crossing, has transitioned from its telco roots into a technology company focused on powering AI with bandwidth and infrastructure services. Through solutions like wave services, DIA services, data centers, and rapid routes, Lumen provides the backbone for enterprises facing high-intensity data demands. At Partner First, the company highlighted its long-standing partnership with Intelisys, now part of ScanSource, where it has operated for over 20 years in an agency model of recurring commissions. Eaton emphasized that Lumen enables resellers to expand beyond equipment sales and deliver complete customer solutions—moving from “mailbox money” to strategic recurring revenue streams. To simplify adoption, Lumen and ScanSource provide partners with API-driven quoting and ordering tools, training, and field engineering support. This ensures that partners can more easily engage in infrastructure sales, which Eaton described as essential for AI-era growth: “From an AI perspective, it's all about the data… and the high bandwidth requirements to support it.” Eaton noted that partners at the show are eager to learn how to get started, educate themselves, and go deeper with customers. He encouraged resellers to leverage both Lumen's resources and ScanSource's support teams to accelerate success. For more information, visit lumen.com.

“Press 1 is dead. If you haven't integrated AI into your core telephony stack, you're on the path to obsolescence.” — Andy Abramson, Founder & CEO, Comunicano In this conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, Andy Abramson—32 years into leading Comunicano—explains why legacy, menu-tree IVRs are being displaced by SIP-native AI and real-time voice agents. The result: faster resolution, lower latency, and human-like interactions that finally match the urgency of today's callers. What's changing SIP ↔ AI interconnect: Direct SIP trunking into AI (e.g., OpenAI) turns agents into callable endpoints—simplifying deployment much like early CPaaS did. Network path matters: Zero-hop/HD direct connectivity (e.g., CarrierX/Found/freeconferencecall.com) and Cloudflare's global edge for WebRTC cut jitter, packet loss, and delay—feeding cleaner “robot food” to AI. Voice that sounds human: Advances in neural voices (e.g., ElevenLabs) raise comprehension and comfort, improving CX outcomes. Tool orchestration made simple: MCP/agent frameworks (e.g., Anthropic-style tool calling) connect CRM/ERP and data sources without brittle middleware. Who wins, who loses Winners: UCaaS/CPaaS and AI-forward CCaaS that treat AI agents as first-class endpoints; telcos bundling AI with SIP routing and data plans; high-volume enterprises offloading Tier-1 to real-time AI. At risk: IVR-only vendors, low-end CCaaS, and speech-to-text middleware that don't adopt AI—“adopt or die.” Why it matters for MSPs & channel partners The migration path is here now: swap tree-based IVR for NLP-driven, real-time voice agents, integrate with existing stacks via SIP, and monetize AI minutes + memories. Business impact: shorter handle times, higher first-contact resolution, lower OpEx, and fewer abandoned calls—especially for customers calling with urgent needs. This episode includes a slide presentation outlining the end of menu trees, the SIP-AI architecture, and four go-to-market “wins” for carriers, UC/CPaaS, CCaaS, and large enterprises. Learn more about Andy's work at comunicano.com (one “m”) and his commentary at AndyAbramson.com and on LinkedIn.

“All those companies are going to one box. One box is the way to go.” — Robert Garry, Founder, The POTS Box Robert Garry, founder of The POTS Box, joined Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, to discuss how his company is helping partners tackle the nationwide POTS replacement challenge. The POTS Box delivers an all-in-one device—router, ATA, battery, and portal—manufactured by Data Remote. Designed for life-safety and specialty lines often overlooked in VoIP migrations, the solution supports fire alarms, elevators, fax, door access, and blue light phones. Features include flexible backhaul (broadband or cellular), 24–48 hours of backup power, enhanced lines that eliminate jitter and false alarms, and a management portal for proactive monitoring and alerts. Working strictly through the channel, The POTS Box offers three engagement models: white-label programs with branding and billing support, hybrid models with shared responsibilities, and agent programs that pay commissions for referral-only partners. Nationwide support, sales enablement resources, and 24/7 customer service further strengthen the opportunity. “MSPs and partners who once avoided telecom lines now have a clear path to revenue and customer stickiness,” Garry said. The podcast also includes a slide presentation illustrating product architecture and partner benefits. Learn more at thepotsbox.com

“Thanks to AI, voice is becoming sexy again.” That's the clear message from Stijn Nijhuis, CEO of Enreach, in a conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News. Nijhuis explains that partners and SMBs across Europe are now asking the same urgent question: how can AI transform the way businesses communicate, especially through telephony? Enreach, a Cloud Communications Alliance (CCA) member, is answering with its “smart contact” proposition—a combination of telephony, UCaaS, and AI platforms built specifically for SMBs. Unlike enterprise solutions scaled down, Enreach has developed AI-powered features from the ground up for small businesses. At the center is Shomi, an AI assistant that replaces traditional voicemail with real-time transcription, scheduling, prioritization, and even spam filtering. For SMBs struggling with labor shortages and customer service pressures, this enables efficiency and accessibility—letting them “be in two places at once.” Nijhuis emphasizes that this isn't about chasing hype. Enreach has been developing its AI platform since 2020 and is now seeing strong demand as partners seek to deliver measurable productivity gains, not just incremental cost savings. “We don't just want to compete on price,” he notes. “We want to help partners create real value and engage directly with CEOs by solving staffing and growth challenges.” For ICT partners, the opportunity is significant. Enreach's AI-integrated UCaaS and mobile services enable resellers to differentiate in a commoditized market, expand their value proposition, and strengthen long-term relationships with SMBs. To learn more about Enreach, visit enreach.com.

"We do the hard stuff so our partners can go sell." That's how Brian Cuppett, Senior Vice President of Specialty Technologies at ScanSource, describes the company's newest announcement: a broadened partnership with Zoom. In an interview with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, Cuppett detailed a new resale agreement that allows VARs and partners to transact directly through Zoom's marketplace—expanding beyond the agency model that ScanSource has offered since acquiring Intelisys in 2015. The move opens doors for partners to choose the best fit between resale and agency models, while also combining licenses with physical devices such as phones, headsets, and video collaboration tools. The announcement was made at ScanSource Partner First, where partner response has been immediate. Cuppett said many are eager to shift select accounts from agency to resale to recognize top-line revenue on their books. He tied the deal to a broader company goal of raising recurring revenue from 20% today toward 30–50% in the next few years. Cuppett also outlined ScanSource's Cisco Blueprint program, part of its Evolve initiative, which guides partners through Cisco's upcoming 360 program changes. “We want our partners ready to execute when Cisco's program takes full effect in early 2026,” he explained. The conversation turned to AI, where Cuppett stressed that ScanSource is playing both offense and defense—educating partners on how suppliers like Cisco are using AI to fight cyber threats, while also pointing to innovations in network monitoring, collaboration quality, and even noise-cancellation features like HP Poly's acoustic fence. “AI is not just a technology trend—it's a way to solve real problems for customers,” Cuppett said. He emphasized ScanSource's role as an educator and enabler, ensuring partners can capture opportunities without getting lost in vendor complexity. Learn more at www.scansource.com

“Our charter is to make it easy for our partners to add,” says Ansley Hoke, Senior Vice President of ScanSource's Integrated Solutions Group (ISG). In a conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, at ScanSource Partner First, Hoke outlined how the newly launched ISG is designed to help partners expand their technology stacks, increase margins, and enter new markets with less complexity. The ISG brings together software, services, and next-generation products—from connectivity and deployment solutions to robotics, AI-driven worker safety software, and private cellular networks. At the show, ScanSource unveiled LaunchPoint, a dedicated team within ISG focused on scouting and scaling emerging technologies such as smart carts, drones, robotics, and AI applications. Hoke emphasized that ISG is not just about introducing new products but also about enabling services-based revenue models. Through simplified onboarding, enablement resources, and flexible deployment and billing models, partners can more easily add recurring revenue opportunities without being burdened by complexity. A key showcase at Partner First was ScanSource's Smart Warehouse Solution, which integrates advanced technologies like robotics and AI with core warehouse systems. This “smart series” approach provides a blueprint for partners to expand into vertical markets by layering innovation onto existing infrastructure. Importantly, ISG supports both current and new partners. For organizations not yet working with ScanSource, Hoke highlighted the company's dedicated onboarding team that helps accelerate engagement and adoption. “We just want to make sure that we are an accelerator engine for them to grow,” she said. For more information, visit scansource.com and explore the Integrated Solutions Group section.

“To boldly go where no SIM has gone before.” That was the theme at the Advantix booth during ScanSource Partner First, where Ansley Hoke, Senior Vice President of ScanSource's Integrated Solutions Group (ISG), joined Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, to discuss the company's expanding role in wireless connectivity. Hoke explained that Advantix, now part of ScanSource's ISG, is the multi-carrier wireless connectivity arm of the business, designed to help partners extend connectivity beyond the four walls with WAN-enabled devices. Through ScanSource's distribution facilities, partners can provision physical SIMs or eSIMs directly into devices, kit them, and ship them to end customers—streamlining deployment and reducing friction. The integration of Advantix into ISG reflects ScanSource's commitment to delivering recurring revenue services and enabling partners to compete more effectively in the growing mobility market. With Advantix's always-on, multi-carrier SmartSIM technology, end users are assured seamless connectivity regardless of carrier or coverage area. To simplify adoption, Advantix provides a full suite of enablement resources and training videos, alongside a revamped website to support partners with onboarding and activation. As Hoke emphasized, “It is really seamless on being able to onboard quickly and get the activations working out of the box.” For more information, visit scansource.com or explore resources directly at advantixsolutions.com.

“Shadow AI is real—60 to 80% of employees are already using AI at work, whether it's sanctioned or not.” That's the wake-up call from Vinay Goel, CEO of Wald.ai, in a new Technology Reseller News podcast with publisher Doug Green. Goel explains how Wald.ai is helping enterprises and MSPs enable AI safely, in an era when sensitive data is routinely—and often unknowingly—pasted into public AI assistants. Wald.ai acts as a real-time secure proxy between employees and large language models, identifying context, masking sensitive data, and then rehydrating responses—ensuring no trade secrets, HR issues, or financial plans ever leave the company. Unlike traditional DLP, which only catches names or payment data, Wald.ai detects and protects the 85% of sensitive content that standard tools miss. The company's recent partnership with TD SYNNEX and availability on the Google Cloud Marketplace gives MSPs and channel partners a fast track to bring AI security to their customers. For MSPs, Wald.ai is positioned as a simple, self-service platform with no heavy learning curve—plus bundled access to leading AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok without separate agreements. Goel highlights early adoption in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, and law, but emphasizes the platform's horizontal value: “Every sector has trade secrets worth protecting, from supply chains in manufacturing to product roadmaps in tech.” Learn more at wald.ai  

“Giving back has always been in our DNA,” says Wendy Thacker of ScanSource, reflecting on the company's growing commitment to community engagement. In an interview with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, at ScanSource Partner First, Thacker shared how ScanSource is scaling its Impact 360 program, originally launched in Greenville, South Carolina, to new communities across the U.S., including South Haven, Mississippi, Dallas, Texas, Sacramento, California, and Tempe, Arizona. The initiative takes a 360-degree approach to student and family support, addressing education, food and clothing insecurity, physical and mental health, and enrichment experiences. Through hands-on engagement, more than 150 partners, employees, and family members have already participated in activities ranging from fall festivals and classroom takeovers to healthy eating demos. A highlight of this year's program was the involvement of Thomas Kearns Elementary School students, who designed and painted footballs that will be showcased at Dallas Cowboys Stadium. The winning design, selected through a social media contest, will earn the entire class an ice cream sundae party. ScanSource's efforts are supported by the ScanSource Charitable Foundation, which has contributed over $22 million to communities since its inception. To help others replicate this success, the company created a community playbook that provides project plans, budgets, and best practices for building impactful local programs. Thacker emphasized that ScanSource partners, suppliers, and employees all play a critical role: “Helping create impact for others in the communities where they work and live is very important to us because they're part of our extended family.” For more details on ScanSource's charitable work and to download the community playbook, visit scansource.com.

“Using Viirtue's Vibe platform gave me a $3,000 a month raise.” That's how one partner summed up the difference of moving from costly billing systems and third-party dependencies to Viirtue's all-in-one white label platform. In a new Technology Reseller News podcast, Doug Green speaks with Dan Rosenrauch, CEO of Viirtue, about how MSPs can unlock higher margins, keep customer ownership, and simplify operations by embracing white label VoIP instead of reselling a retail UCaaS brand. Rosenrauch explains that Viirtue's signature Vibe platform is more than billing—it's quoting, taxes, number porting, provisioning, CNAP (Caller Name Presentation), compliance, and automation—all included at no cost. For MSPs, that means avoiding the hidden drain of 3% revenue-share billing fees, which he calls “like paying interest on your own money.” With over 200,000 users already scaled on Viirtue's infrastructure, MSPs can deliver geo-redundancy, E911, QoS, and Stir/Shaken compliance without heavy engineering overhead. Rosenrauch emphasizes that today's most successful MSPs are packaging VoIP with cyber, MDR, Teams Voice, SIP trunks, and e-fax into one flat per-user rate—making VoIP not just high-margin, but also a stickier anchor service. Migration is designed to be frictionless, whether moving from a competitor's white label program or stepping up from an agency model. Viirtue provides tools, templates, and even back-end support to make transitions seamless for partners and invisible to their end customers. As Rosenrauch notes, Viirtue's model empowers MSPs to move from 20% reseller margins to 75% white label margins while keeping customer control. “It's a true growth hack—whether you're a mature MSP trying to save money or a new one just getting started.” Learn more at viirtue.com

“If you're an MSP looking for a growth hack, Viirtue Connect is the place to be.” That's how Dan Rosenrauch, Co-Founder of Viirtue, describes the company's upcoming partner conference and its broader mission to help MSPs scale smarter. In a conversation with Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green, Rosenrauch previewed Viirtue Connect 2025, taking place October 7–9 at the Woolworth Theater in downtown Nashville. For the first time, Viirtue is hosting the event outside its Tampa headquarters, choosing Nashville for its central location and vibrant atmosphere. “We don't often get the chance to see all of our partners in one spot,” Rosenrauch said. “Viirtue Connect is about learning how to grow together — and then celebrating together.” Despite industry-wide caution on travel budgets, registrations and sponsorships are already surpassing previous years. Rosenrauch credits this to the growing demand for smaller, more focused gatherings. “These bespoke shows resonate more with partners than the giant generalist events,” he noted. For MSPs, Viirtue Connect promises more than product updates. Attendees will gain hands-on training — from Google Ads and API integration workshops to collaborative Q&A sessions with Viirtue engineers and partners. The event will also showcase the roadmap for the v45 VoIP platform, new integrations such as Authorize.NET, and innovation from Viirtue's Vibe team. Networking opportunities will extend beyond the sessions, with evening events at Nashville landmarks like Luke's Rooftop. Beyond the conference, Rosenrauch emphasized Viirtue's broader role as a growth partner. From high-margin VoIP services to layered offerings like e-fax, cybersecurity, and AI, Viirtue is equipping MSPs with both the technology and the sales enablement to drive recurring revenue. “Our focus is on brand visibility and customer growth,” Rosenrauch said. “We're not just handing partners a solution and saying, ‘good luck.' We're teaching them how to grow.” Learn more and register at connect.viirtue.com.

“AI is causing such a strain on the energy grid that CSPs need every tool they can to keep costs and compliance in check,” says Adrian Barcia, Product Marketing Specialist at iconectiv. In a conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, Barcia explained how iconectiv's Common Language codes—CLI (equipment-level) and SILI (site-level)—help communication service providers (CSPs) and data center operators achieve energy efficiency while strengthening compliance and operational planning. Barcia outlined how CLI codes provide critical details such as power requirements, heat output, and environmental tolerances, enabling CSPs to select energy-efficient equipment and configure networks more effectively. On the location side, SILI codes give operators precise functional context to optimize site selection, network planning, and service delivery, reducing over-engineering and energy waste. With AI workloads driving unprecedented computing demand, energy efficiency has become a top-tier strategic cost for CSPs. Barcia emphasized that using iconectiv's Common Language can cut energy costs by up to 1% annually—equating to $2.4–$12 million in savings for a medium-sized wireless network or data center. Beyond savings, Common Language also helps operators prepare for stricter energy regulations while maintaining service quality. “Now is a prime opportunity for CSPs to gain detailed insights into their network assets,” Barcia noted. “We're ready to partner with providers to unlock savings, compliance, and smarter network growth.” To learn more, visit https://iconectiv.com/.

“Just because you can keep running Office 2016 or 2019 doesn't mean you should,” warns Andy Syrewicze, Security Evangelist at Hornetsecurity. In a conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, Syrewicze explained the looming compliance and security risks as Microsoft ends support for Office 2016 and 2019 on October 14, 2025. While organizations can technically continue using the software, Syrewicze compares it to Jeff Goldblum's warning in Jurassic Park: “They were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.” Without security patches, businesses face immediate compliance issues, heightened vulnerability to zero-day threats, and the burden of mitigating risks across every endpoint. Syrewicze outlined two paths forward: migrate to Microsoft 365 for its broader functionality, cloud-native flexibility, and faster cadence of security updates—or transition to Office LTSC 2021/2024 for organizations that must remain on-premises due to regulatory requirements. He strongly recommended a full inventory of existing software and a reevaluation of risk profiles before making the move. Hornetsecurity positions itself as a crucial partner for organizations navigating this transition, offering layered security services tailored to Microsoft 365 environments. From email protection and SharePoint permission management to awareness training, Hornetsecurity simplifies security in what Syrewicze calls an overly complex Microsoft landscape with “29 different management portals.” To learn more, visit www.hornetsecurity.com.

In this podcast, Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, sits down with Ariel Hayes of SHI International to discuss the company's role in the technology reseller industry, their AI initiatives, and their strategic partnerships. SHI International is a major national reseller offering a wide range of hardware, software, and services. Ariel explains that SHI not only supports customers from a procurement perspective but also provides consulting and service delivery to help businesses adopt new technologies effectively. A key focus for SHI is its continued investment in AI. In April of this year, the company opened an AI and cybersecurity lab at its headquarters in New Jersey. The lab is designed to support customers by providing AI assessments, strategic roadmaps, and tailored solutions to navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Ariel also highlights SHI's strong relationship with VMware and Broadcom, calling VMware a “top focus partner” for SHI. Ariel emphasizes that SHI dedicates resources to ensure its customers understand and maximize the technologies they invest in, with VMware being an essential part of that strategy. To learn more visit shi.com.

At VMware Explore, Technology Reseller News publisher Doug Green stops by the LogicVein booth—drawn in by a bold and humorous sign that reads: “Does your network suck?” In this episode, Doug interviews Bobby Olander of LogicVein, who explains how the company's playful approach at the show is matched by serious innovation in network management solutions. With over 20 years of experience, LogicVein delivers advanced tools to tackle persistent network issues. Bobby introduces listeners to ThirdEye, the company's comprehensive network monitoring solution, and NetLineDancer, which focuses on configuration change management across all network devices. NetLineDancer enables auto-remediation through drag-and-drop playbooks—similar to Ansible, but tailored for network engineers and requiring no Python knowledge. The system actively monitors devices, identifies compliance issues, and automatically resolves them—sending real-time notifications via Teams, Slack, Mattermost, or email. It's a streamlined, proactive approach to keeping networks healthy, secure, and compliant. Bobby also shares how their eye-catching booth signage sparked smiles and conversations, proving that a little creativity can go a long way at a trade show. Learn more at logicvein.com.

In this episode of Technology Reseller News, publisher Doug Green speaks with Ameet Dhillon from Phoenix Technologies, live from the VMware Explore show floor. Dhillon returns to discuss FirmGuard, Phoenix Technologies' cutting-edge remote BIOS management and security solution, now gaining momentum among MSPs and IT professionals. FirmGuard, developed by the BIOS pioneers at Phoenix Technologies (est. 1979), is the industry's only remote BIOS management platform, offering IT teams—whether internal or managed service providers—the ability to monitor, configure, and update BIOS across diverse hardware environments (including Dell, HP, and Lenovo) from a single interface. In the conversation, Dhillon breaks down how FirmGuard addresses real-world needs, including BIOS security monitoring, enabling TPM for Windows 11 migrations, and streamlining OEM BIOS updates—tasks that were traditionally manual, fragmented, and time-consuming. While Phoenix Technologies doesn't hold a direct partnership with VMware or Broadcom, their presence at the show highlights the tool's relevance to the broader IT ecosystem. As a proven solution with exclusive capabilities, FirmGuard is positioned as a must-have in any advanced security stack, especially for channel partners and MSPs looking to enhance endpoint security. Learn more at firmguard.com.

“We are an absolute recurring revenue engine,” says Ted Lee, co-founder of SmarTrak.ai, in a new podcast interview with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News. Speaking from Cisco GSX and VMware Explore, Lee describes how SmarTrak.ai is enabling partners to transform data into growth, helping some global players reverse declines and generate new momentum in just 12 months. Founded with a multi-vendor vision, SmarTrak.ai began by solving a central challenge in the Cisco ecosystem: partners struggling to manage renewals and subscriptions at scale. The platform pulls data from 30–40 sources across Cisco, partners, customers, and distributors—then applies AI to generate actionable, prescriptive insights. Instead of static dashboards, SmarTrak.ai tells partners what to sell, when to sell it, and how to grow adoption. “We're beyond BI,” explains Lee. “Our AI is building presentations, highlighting opportunities, and giving sellers the recommendations that turn renewal data into recurring revenue.” Key highlights from the conversation: Recurring revenue growth: Partners are using SmarTrak.ai to drive hardware, software, subscription, and managed services sales. Executive-level visibility: Daily insights reveal whether a business is growing or in decline—and why—empowering leaders to take corrective action. Speed of innovation: As an AI-first platform with no legacy “technical debt,” SmarTrak.ai deploys new functionality in weeks, with measurable revenue results in days. Secure AI adoption: SOC 2 compliance ensures sensitive customer data stays safe—unlike dropping files into public AI tools. Multi-vendor future: While rooted in Cisco, SmarTrak.ai is rapidly expanding to support VMware and other leading IT vendors. Lee says partners see SmarTrak.ai as their “competitive advantage machine”—so much so that few will provide references, fearing competitors will catch on. For Cisco, for partners, and ultimately for customers, the result is a healthier ecosystem and stronger long-term value. To learn more, visit smartrak.ai.

"If you're currently using free Ubuntu, you're getting supported Ubuntu Pro as part of your VCF license — which is amazing." – Thibaut Rouffineau, Canonical At VMware Explore 2025, Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, spoke with Thibaut Rouffineau, Vice President of Marketing at Canonical, about how Canonical is elevating Ubuntu into the heart of enterprise private cloud. Canonical, the publisher of Ubuntu and a leader in securing open-source for enterprises, featured prominently in VMware's major announcements. The news: Ubuntu Pro is now bundled with VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) licenses, instantly providing enterprise customers with long-term support, compliance, and hardened security — at no extra cost. Rouffineau explained that this recognition of Ubuntu as a first-class enterprise Linux within VCF is about much more than operating systems. Enterprises can now confidently run workloads across VMs, manage Kubernetes clusters with less disruptive upgrades, and accelerate container adoption on a secure and scalable foundation. Since the announcements, VMware Explore attendees have been eager to understand how these changes impact their modernization journey. Canonical's answer: what was once free Ubuntu now comes with enterprise-grade support, helping organizations move faster while reducing risk. For more information, visit Canonical.com.

“Complexity is at the core of this, and our mission at Broadcom has been how to address this complexity by making things simpler,” says Abhay Kumar, Global Head of Managed Services for Broadcom's VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) division. In this Technology Reseller News podcast, recorded live at VMware Explore 2025, Kumar discusses Broadcom's strategy for making the private cloud AI-native, portable, and partner-driven. Since acquiring VMware two years ago, Broadcom has focused on positioning VMware Cloud Foundation as the consistent foundation for enterprise workloads—whether on-premises or across hyperscaler environments. Key themes from the conversation include: AI-native private cloud – VCF now incorporates a private AI foundation, with expanded partnerships with NVIDIA and Canonical to accelerate AI and containerized workloads. License portability – Broadcom is giving customers the flexibility to dynamically move entitlements between on-premises and multiple clouds, protecting investments while enabling innovation. Ecosystem and choice – Customers can run workloads across AWS, Microsoft, Google, Oracle, and other providers while maintaining consistent control through VCF. Simplifying complexity – CIOs and partners face hybrid environments, containers, and AI workloads. VCF's single-pane-of-glass approach reduces operational complexity and ensures skills can be leveraged across environments. Kumar emphasized that Broadcom's strategy puts customers at the center, giving them the flexibility to innovate with AI services and advanced analytics while managing cost, efficiency, and control.

"If we have to roll a truck, there's a problem," says Jake Jacoby of TELCLOUD. In the latest episode of the POTS and Shots podcast series, Jacoby joins Technology Reseller News publisher Doug Green to discuss how TELCLOUD eliminates costly and disruptive truck rolls with a carrier-grade platform that delivers complete remote management for POTS replacement. Building on the company's commitment to five nines of uptime, Jacoby explains how TELCLOUD extends its global network directly into customer locations, treating every deployed device as part of its own infrastructure. This approach allows for seamless monitoring, maintenance, and remote reboot capabilities—critical for life-safety lines where reliability is paramount. TELCLOUD has engineered deep integrations with leading cellular router providers, including Ericsson, Peplink, Digi, InHand, and Segoe, enabling resellers to manage the entire customer environment without ever dispatching a technician. Beyond connectivity, the solution supports firmware upgrades, configuration changes, power cycling, and automated watchdog services that enhance security and resilience. For resellers, this translates into stronger margins and recurring revenue opportunities. By offering a fully managed service, partners can reduce operational costs, provide higher-quality customer experiences, and build long-term client relationships. Customers benefit as well, gaining affordable, law-compliant POTS replacement backed by continuous monitoring and trusted advisory support. As always, the podcast pairs telecom insights with a taste of fine tequila. This episode features Teralta Reposado, a clean, organic tequila from Felipe Camarena, best known for creating the G4 brand. Jacoby highlights the nuanced flavors that come from resting the spirit in oak barrels, encouraging listeners to compare Teralta's Blanco and Reposado expressions side by side. The POTS and Shots series continues to blend business-critical telecom strategy with lighthearted exploration, reminding resellers that POTS replacement is more than a sale—it's about delivering lasting reliability and customer loyalty. Learn more about TELCLOUD's POTS replacement solutions at telcloud.com.

“Standards are a way to separate out those who say they do the right things from those who actually do them,” says Jeff Seibert, Chief Provocateur at SERI. In this Technology Reseller News podcast, Publisher Doug Green interviews Seibert about SERI's mission, the role of the R2 standard in responsible electronics reuse and recycling, and the upcoming eSummit 2025, taking place September 8–11 in Minneapolis. Seibert explains that SERI, a global nonprofit, is focused on driving sustainable electronics practices through initiatives like R2, the Electronics Impact (EI) standard, and convening industry stakeholders at eSummit. Unlike most conferences that focus narrowly on one part of the value chain, eSummit 2025 aims to bring together the entire electronics ecosystem—from designers to ITADs to recyclers—sparking unique, cross-disciplinary conversations. The event features four days of packed programming: facility tours (including an ASCDI member tour), an expo hall with solution providers, industry awards, interactive workshops, and thought leadership sessions addressing both immediate operational challenges and long-term strategic goals. Pre-conference pricing and ASCDI member discounts are available through August 27. For more information, visit SERI's website or explore details about ASCDI's member tour at eSummit 2025.

In this Technology Reseller News podcast, Doug Green interviews Jill Blankenship, CEO of Frontline Group, and Thomas McCarthy-Howe, CTO of Strolid, about their collaboration on vCons (Virtualized Conversations)—a new file format that could transform how conversations are captured, stored, and analyzed in the contact center. A vCon is a standardized file (currently under IETF review) that stores the full content of a conversation—recording, transcript, participants, and metadata. Unlike traditional call recordings or after-call notes, vCons provide secure, portable, and queryable data that can be easily integrated into AI systems. For Frontline Group, this means agents no longer need to spend time typing summaries after calls. “vCon captures every part of that conversation,” Blankenship explains. This allows agents to focus on empathy and listening, while supervisors and customers benefit from richer, more accurate insights. For Strolid, which manages high-volume conversations in the automotive sector, vCons provide new visibility into customer frustrations and operational challenges. McCarthy-Howe notes: “Because vCons capture everything, it's easier to bring all the data together so the blindness gets cured.” The applications extend beyond sales and support. In critical services such as 2-1-1, where people call for help with food, housing, or emergencies, vCons can ensure every call is captured, flagged for urgent needs, and analyzed for emerging trends—all while prioritizing data privacy and portability. Blankenship emphasizes that AI should not replace people, but empower them: “We're training our staff to be AI managers—coaching, tweaking, and escalating when needed. It's the people behind the AI that bring the true value.” This partnership demonstrates how AI, human expertise, and open standards can combine to make conversations more accurate, secure, and impactful across industries. Learn more at frontline.group and strolid.com.

In this Technology Reseller News podcast, Doug Green speaks with Jennifer Lee, President and Co-CEO of Intradiem, about how AI—particularly predictive AI—can improve agent well-being, enhance customer experiences, and reduce costly attrition in telecom contact centers. Jennifer Lee Lee, who began her career as a telecom contact center agent, explains that the late summer season is one of the busiest times of the year. With back-to-school moves, new service activations, billing issues, and early product launches, call volumes can spike dramatically. Agents face repetitive, high-stress interactions that, over time, can lead to burnout and turnover. “Stress compounds,” Lee notes. “Minor stressors throughout the day add up to significant fatigue, and without intervention, that can lead to true burnout.” Intradiem's predictive AI can analyze millions of daily data points to identify when an agent is at risk, triggering automatic wellness breaks or supervisor interventions. According to Lee, agents reaching a “critical” burnout level face a 70% chance of leaving within two weeks without support. Beyond agent well-being, predictive AI can also optimize routing, ensure customers are connected to the right resource the first time, and provide agents with real-time customer context. Lee contrasts this with poor chatbot deployments that trap customers, noting that the best AI solutions enhance the customer journey while keeping humans in complex, empathy-driven interactions. “Technology should support humans, not replace them,” Lee emphasizes. “AI has capabilities that no other technology has had before, and when deployed thoughtfully, it can transform both the employee and customer experience.” More information about Intradiem's solutions is available at intradiem.com.

In this Technology Reseller News interview, Doug Green speaks with Dane Surkamer, VP of Global Channel Sales at Digi International, about how the IoT leader is teaming with TELCLOUD to tackle the huge POTS line replacement market. Digi, now in its 40th year, specializes in mission-critical wireless connectivity across industries such as healthcare, transportation, and utilities. Millions of legacy copper endpoints still in use can now be replaced with TELCLOUD's as-a-service POTS solution, integrated with Digi's EX50 5G cellular router and managed through Digi Remote Manager. “The EX50 being PoE-enabled means we can bring the device to where the service is, even in challenging locations like concrete basements,” Surkamer notes. “That flexibility is part of the value we bring to TELCLOUD's solution and to our partners.” The offering fits Digi's channel-first strategy and Digi360 model, giving partners simple SKUs, recurring revenue potential, and a customizable, pre-baked platform. Digi plans to expand partner enablement through alliances, training boot camps, and dedicated support resources. Digi TELCLOUD Press Release Digi Channel Partners Sign Up Visit www.digi.com

In a fast-paced fall event season, where overlapping trade shows can overwhelm even seasoned marketers, Sam Littlefield, President and CEO of Littlefield Agency, joins Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green to share fresh strategies for cutting through the noise. Founded in 1980 and based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Littlefield Agency specializes in complex B2B manufacturer and financial institution marketing, earning recognition as a Top 25 B2B agency in the U.S. Littlefield stresses that while many companies lead with features, real engagement starts by identifying and communicating the customer's pain points and high-level benefits. At trade shows and in campaigns, simplification is key—one clear message beats a crowded wall of technical specs. Once prospects are deeper in the sales funnel, feature details have their place, but early messaging should focus on the “problem solved” for the buyer. The discussion dives into AI's role in modern storytelling, citing a striking example of an entirely AI-generated “Liquid Death” commercial that captured national attention. For Littlefield, AI isn't replacing agencies but is expanding creative possibilities—allowing brands to produce more content, faster, at lower cost, while still requiring human insight for strategy and authenticity. He advises companies to experiment widely with AI and digital platforms, from connected TV campaigns to imperfect but relatable social videos, in order to adapt to shifting buyer expectations, especially from millennials and Gen Z. Whether it's using AI to refine creative ideas, producing authentic short-form videos, or tightening messaging for the trade show floor, Littlefield's advice is clear: test, learn, and embrace new tools while keeping storytelling grounded in the real customer experience. For more insights, visit littlefieldagency.com.

"It's as if we were both JP Morgan and the New York Stock Exchange." — Quoting a Google executive in his new book, Ari Paparo lays out the case against the tech giant. In this Technology Reseller News podcast, Publisher Doug Green interviews Ari Paparo, CEO of Marketecture TV and author of Yield: How Google Bought, Built, and Bullied Its Way to Advertising Dominance. Paparo draws on two decades in ad tech—including his time at DoubleClick during its $3.1 billion acquisition by Google—to explain how the search giant built a commanding position across the digital advertising ecosystem. The conversation centers on the OpenX civil suit against Google, which follows a federal court ruling finding Google guilty of abusing its monopoly in advertising technology. Paparo details how Google's control of both the ad server market and the AdX exchange created a “tie” that locked out competitors, costing companies like OpenX market share and even forcing layoffs. With Google facing multiple antitrust actions worldwide—including parallel cases in search and app stores—Paparo says the September remedies trial could reshape the economics of online publishing. The discussion also examines the broader implications for news organizations and independent publishers, with Paparo predicting that breaking Google's control could open access to new advertising demand sources such as Meta. However, he warns that the rise of AI could create a new winner-take-all dynamic, potentially replacing one dominant gatekeeper with another. For advertisers, Paparo advises pragmatism—continue investing where ROI is strongest, chiefly Google and Meta—while publishers should focus on controlling their distribution through channels like email and podcasts rather than relying on referral traffic. Paparo's Yield—currently a #1 Amazon bestseller in the media category—offers what he describes as a “Michael Lewis–style” narrative for understanding the stakes of ad tech dominance, its impact on journalism, and the uncertain future of an open web. Learn more about Ari Paparo's work at aripaparo.com or find Yield on Amazon and major booksellers.

In this Technology Reseller News and Cloud Communications Alliance preview of the upcoming CCA Financial Summit (October 7, 2025, Willard Hotel, Washington, D.C.), Doug Green speaks with Michael Quinn, Founding Partner at Q Advisors, and Jonathan Marashlian, Managing Partner at The CommLaw Group. The session they will lead—aptly titled Hotel California and the Regulatory Impact on Cloud Transactions—explores how certain state-level telecom regulations, especially in California, are causing costly delays and uncertainty in cloud and VoIP M&A activity. Quinn explains the analogy: “You can check in, but you can never leave. That's how it feels when a deal gets stuck in California's opaque approval process.” He notes that even transactions with minimal in-state revenue can be held for months, slowing an industry that's rapidly evolving with AI and new technologies. Marashlian details the legal backdrop, pointing to the erosion of the Vonage preemption and the California Public Utilities Commission's expanded reach into VoIP. “For 20 years, states generally took a hands-off approach to VoIP market entry and transactions. Now, with California leading the way, we're seeing a spider web of regulatory requirements emerging,” he warns. The result: unpredictable timelines, heightened legal exposure, and the risk that other states will follow suit. Both agree that while consumer protection is vital in traditional telecom, these rules are misapplied to business-focused VoIP and UCaaS providers, where customers are sophisticated and competition is abundant. They urge federal action—specifically FCC reaffirmation of Vonage preemption—to restore clarity, prevent regulatory overreach, and allow businesses to plan transactions with certainty. More information on the speakers and their work is available at commlawgroup.com and qllc.com. Learn more about the CCA Financial Summit and register at https://www.cloudcommunications.com/events/financial-summit-2025.

In just seven months since entering the U.S. market, The Repair Academy—a French-based specialist in micro soldering and board repair training—has already sold out its first American course and is preparing for a second. In this ASCDI- and ITAD-focused interview with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, CEO Alexandre Isaac shares how the Academy's intensive two-week program equips technicians with the skills to diagnose and repair high-value electronics, from MacBook motherboards to server boards, that might otherwise be scrapped. The upcoming October 13–25 course, held at iFixit's Chattanooga, Tennessee facility, offers 130 hours of hands-on training. Participants work at fully equipped stations with microscopes, soldering irons, hot air tools, and DC power supplies, learning to read schematics, use diagnostic equipment, and replace components as small as a human hair. The program is designed for both aspiring entrepreneurs and ITAD professionals, with graduates earning the iFixit Pro Repair Academy Certificate—a credential that verifies they can perform real-world board repairs efficiently and to industry standards. Isaac emphasizes the business potential, noting that repair skills can be applied from a home workspace or scaled into a commercial shop. For ITAD companies, the training represents a way to recover value from “no power” devices, keeping high-value hardware like M-series MacBook boards and networking gear in circulation instead of the waste stream. Notably, the Academy offers lifetime course retakes at no additional cost, ensuring mastery and long-term skill retention. The Repair Academy also assists graduates in sourcing quality tools and fosters peer connections through shared housing and group learning—creating a community of professionals who often continue to collaborate. With eight different training programs already established in France, Isaac sees this as the beginning of a broader U.S. offering, including more introductory-level courses. To learn more or register, visit therepairacademy.us.

"What makes our events unique is the interaction." — Joe Marion, President, Cloud Communications Alliance In this special Technology Reseller News podcast, Doug Green speaks with Joe Marion (President) and Clark Peterson (Chairman) of the Cloud Communications Alliance (CCA) to preview the 2025 CCA Financial Summit, taking place October 7–8 at Washington, D.C.'s historic Willard Hotel. Designed for C-suite executives, the half-day Financial Summit will follow the Cavell Group's annual meeting and feature high-impact sessions on the intersection of finance, regulation, and AI in the cloud communications sector. The program combines top-tier industry analysis, real-world case studies, and collaborative networking in an intimate setting. Highlights from the Conversation: Venue & Networking – The Willard Hotel's historic setting and curated size ensure high-value interactions among executives, analysts, and dealmakers. Regulatory Realities – Sessions such as “Hotel California: The Regulatory Impact on Cloud Communications” will examine how state-level overregulation—especially in California—can derail deals and affect company valuations. Expert-Led Finance Panels – Speakers include Michael Quinn (QAdvisors), telecom attorney Jonathan Marashlian, and regulatory expert Michael Pryor, providing actionable insights for M&A, compliance, and strategic planning. Zoom's Special Announcement – The summit will be the platform for a major product update from Zoom, the event's gold sponsor. AI and Valuation – Leading analysts and executives will discuss how AI integration impacts company value, and CEOs will share firsthand strategies for monetizing AI in communications. Best Practices Roundtable – A moderated, interactive session where attendees can exchange strategies and address the most pressing issues in the industry. Exclusive Capitol Hill Access – Limited to 20 participants, an exclusive Capitol tour and private dinner with CCA leadership and a special congressional guest will offer deeper relationship-building opportunities. Marion and Peterson emphasize that the Financial Summit delivers three core benefits: direct access to the industry's top experts, unmatched C-level networking, and visibility with analysts who influence major buying decisions. For members and first-time attendees alike, it's a chance to align strategy with market reality while making high-value connections. Learn more and register at https://www.cloudcommunications.com/events/financial-summit-2025

"Innovate with us. Don't just issue an RFP—explore the art of the possible." — Dino Trevisani, Senior Vice President & Head of the Americas Region, Tata Communications In this in-depth conversation with Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green, Dino Trevisani outlines Tata Communications' strategy to deepen its U.S. presence by leveraging the company's expansive global infrastructure, deep industry expertise, and focus on end-to-end “digital fabric” solutions. Trevisani clarifies the scope of Tata Communications' business—often mistakenly conflated with other Tata Group companies—highlighting its capabilities across subsea fiber optic cables, cloud interconnectivity, IoT, security, customer interaction services, and live media streaming for global events such as Formula One and NFL Thursday Night Football. Looking at mid-2025 trends, Trevisani identifies three major forces shaping CIO priorities: Global supply chain and manufacturing shifts — Companies relocating or expanding operations require complex, compliant, and secure communications networks that span multiple countries. Network rationalization — Enterprises are seeking to consolidate and secure disparate networks, driving down costs and complexity. Edge computing and AI readiness — Preparing infrastructure today to support robotics, AI, and real-time applications that will demand near-100% network uptime. Trevisani's U.S. growth strategy targets companies with more than half of their operations outside the country—where Tata Communications already has dominant market presence—and those seeking to simplify complex, multinational communications environments. He stresses that the company's collaborative global leadership model and innovation-focused acquisitions position it as a proactive partner for clients facing rapid technology and market changes. The discussion also touches on opportunities in rural and underserved areas, the critical importance of subsea cables to the global economy, and the need for programmable, intelligent networks that can adapt to future technology shifts without costly infrastructure overhauls. Trevisani's advice for enterprises: fully understand your current network assets, anticipate where your market is heading, and work with innovation-minded partners to design flexible, resilient infrastructures. To learn more about Tata Communications' U.S. and global solutions, visit tatacommunications.com.

"The whole is far greater than the sum of the parts—especially when telcos and satellite operators work together." — Gareth Kentish, Alvatross In this episode of Technology Reseller News, Publisher Doug Green speaks with Gareth Kentish of Alvatross about how the company is enabling global connectivity through the convergence of terrestrial and satellite communications—powered by open standards, modular software, and strategic industry collaboration. Alvatross, a five-year-old startup backed by Spanish systems integrator Satec, blends the agility of a tech disruptor with the resources and telecom experience of an established player. Kentish explains that Alvatross' “Lego block” approach to operational support systems allows telcos and satellite operators to add, modify, and scale services without costly, monolithic system overhauls. A key focus is enabling hybrid terrestrial-satellite models to ensure continuity of communications—even in disaster scenarios—through projects such as TM Forum's “Tech for Good” Catalyst, which demonstrated how first responders could rapidly activate connectivity via a user-friendly marketplace. Kentish highlights several industry drivers: The growing importance of LEO satellite constellations and seamless integration with terrestrial networks Open digital architectures to reduce cost-to-serve and accelerate service innovation The role of AI in enhancing operations—provided operators first address data quality The need for collaboration to unlock opportunities across telecom and satellite ecosystems Looking ahead, Kentish sees major opportunities for MSPs, MSSPs, and service providers who embrace convergence, modularity, and partnerships. He emphasizes that success will depend not just on technology, but also on cultivating the right culture, collaboration, and consensus—both within companies and across the industry. To learn more, visit www.alvatross.io.

"Can I make money selling AI... or should I give it away to sell more of something else?" — Irwin Lazar, President and Principal Analyst, Metrigy In this special preview podcast for the upcoming Cloud Communications Alliance (CCA) Financial Summit, Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, sits down with Irwin Lazar, President and Principal Analyst at Metrigy, to discuss how AI is reshaping the economics of cloud communications—and how that impacts everything from vendor strategy to company valuations and M&A activity. As part of a diverse panel at the CCA Financial Summit, October 7–8 at the Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C., Lazar brings the voice of the buyer to the discussion. Drawing from Metrigy's extensive buyer-side research, he offers a data-driven look at how AI is being implemented, monetized, and evaluated across the communications and contact center landscape. Key Insights from the Podcast: The Monetization Dilemma: Vendors face tough choices—charge premiums for AI features or offer them for free to drive core product adoption. Strategic M&A: Recent deals, like NICE acquiring Cognigy, suggest buyers are favoring tech-focused acquisitions over ego-driven, market-share plays. Build vs. Buy: With AI coding tools becoming more accessible, enterprises face classic tradeoffs—develop internally using models like OpenAI and Anthropic, or accelerate capability through acquisitions. Risks on the Horizon: Lazar identifies power availability, data trust, and model disruption (e.g., DeepSeek's entry) as potential speed bumps for future AI adoption. Avoiding the Avaya-Nortel Trap: Today's acquirers appear more cautious, focused on adding capabilities—not just size. With AI influencing everything from product development to boardroom decisions, Lazar's perspective will be a highlight of the CCA Financial Summit's finance-focused programming. His message is clear: AI isn't just a tech trend—it's a business driver that's rapidly influencing enterprise strategy, investor sentiment, and go-to-market approaches. Learn more about Metrigy at https://metrigy.com Learn more about the Cloud Communications Alliance at https://cloudcommunications.com

“We want to bring the human back. That's what we want to do.” — Danielle Foster, Founder, D Foster Consulting In a conversation that challenges current tech trends, Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, sits down with Danielle Foster and Shelby Page of D Foster Consulting, LLC to explore the real-world impact of AI on contact centers—and the people who staff them. Founded by military spouse Danielle Foster, D Foster Consulting (DFC) is a fully remote, boutique contact center powered by a team of over 40 employees—many of whom are veterans and fellow military spouses. The company offers human-led sales and customer service solutions, primarily to B2B clients in home services, construction, legal, and other high-touch sectors. In the podcast, Foster and Page share candid insights about how AI is being misapplied in the contact center world, especially when companies try to replace humans with automated agents. One client replaced DFC with AI voice callers for outbound appointment setting—only to return weeks later after conversions plummeted from as high as 15% to just 0.57%. “People were hanging up because they knew it was AI,” said Foster. While AI has potential, both guests caution against relying on it exclusively for customer-facing roles. Tools like AI-generated call notes, automated IVRs, and chatbots often miss emotional cues, personal context, and the nuanced needs of frustrated or high-stakes callers—such as those contacting a law office or roofing company during an emergency. “AI isn't going to note that the client was excited—or that they were nervous, or confused,” added Shelby Page. “That's something only a person picks up.” The conversation also touches on the unintended burnout AI can cause for human agents when escalations come in too late or customers are already frustrated by the time they reach a real person. DFC's approach—manual notes, live human engagement, and personalized service—results in stronger ROI, higher customer satisfaction, and improved employee retention. With flexible pricing, no contracts, and a mission-driven team model, D Foster Consulting is not only helping businesses preserve their customer experience, but also offering meaningful remote employment opportunities to military and first responder families across the country. Learn more about how D Foster Consulting is “bringing the human back” at https://www.dfosterconsulting.com

"This is not only a replacement, it's an improvement." — Jake Jacoby, TELCLOUD In the latest edition of the POTS and Shots podcast series, Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, reconnects with Jake Jacoby of TELCLOUD to dive into one of the most essential yet often overlooked parts of communications infrastructure: life safety lines. From elevators and fire panels to emergency call systems, these critical connections—traditionally powered by POTS lines—must not only work but never fail. Jacoby shares how TELCLOUD is helping resellers deliver next-generation POTS line replacements that not only meet but exceed five-nines (99.999%) uptime, thanks to an architecture grounded in multi-layered redundancy: On-premise hardware equipped with triple power redundancy (building power, battery, and backup battery) Connectivity via multiple broadband, cellular (multi-carrier), and satellite options Fully redundant, geographically diverse global data centers “Every single one of our data centers is redundant within itself—and each data center is redundant of each other,” Jacoby explains. While legacy copper lines continue to grow more expensive and unreliable, TELCLOUD's solution is both cost-effective and compliant, making it a natural choice for sectors like public safety, healthcare, and education, where uptime and code compliance are non-negotiable. Resellers can offer monthly pricing, national installation, and a stable, future-ready service—without the scramble when copper lines are finally shut off. Most importantly, Jacoby emphasizes that this is a reseller opportunity with immediate ROI. By empowering an army of partners to educate and implement, TELCLOUD is enabling a seamless and scalable transition to modern infrastructure—helping organizations avoid emergencies before they become disasters. And as always, the episode closes with a tour of tequila. This time: Emerald Spear Blanco, a clean, organic tequila crafted by four Navy SEALs, paying tribute to San Diego's military roots and TELCLOUD's own HQ hometown. Learn more about TELCLOUD's POTS replacement solutions at https://www.telcloud.com or call 844-900-2270.

Lou Borrelli on Empowering 650+ Members Through Shared Innovation and the AI Center of Excellence “Connectivity is king. Without connectivity, you don't really have a business.” — Lou Borrelli, CEO, National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC) In this in-depth conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, Lou Borrelli, CEO of the National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC), shares the evolution of an organization born from a Kansas City poker game into a powerful force connecting over 650 members across all 50 states and U.S. territories—and over 40 million broadband users. What began 41 years ago as a content-buying co-op for small and medium-sized cable operators has transformed into a modern technology and content hub, offering members buying power not just for programming, but also for hardware, software, broadband, mobile services, and now AI-driven solutions. At the heart of the conversation is NCTC's latest initiative: the AI Center of Excellence (AICOE). This strategic program is currently in its second phase, piloting AI applications for network monitoring, customer service, and predictive maintenance—all designed to help smaller operators stay competitive with national giants like Comcast and Charter. Borrelli emphasizes real convergence—not just of telecom technologies, but of content, connectivity, mobility, and AI. With the explosion of digital tools, even the smallest provider can now offer scalable, competitive services thanks to shared innovation and cooperative economics. From rural Kentucky to the suburbs of Boston, NCTC members benefit from centralized procurement, support, and emerging service models. The conversation also previews The Independent Show, NCTC's signature annual event, which brings together technologists and content creators. Borrelli calls it “the last great cable convention,” providing a unique venue for collaboration amid an increasingly fragmented media landscape. On the topic of content delivery, Borrelli is blunt: “Discovery is broken.” He points to the decline of unified cable guides and the rise of app-based content chaos. Consumers are subscribing, unsubscribing, and re-bundling content in real time—often recreating cable-like bills through a mix of streaming services. NCTC is exploring ways to aggregate and simplify the content experience while delivering sustainable value to customers and members. He also critiques the state of U.S. regulatory policy, calling for an overhaul of retransmission consent rules and emphasizing that consumers haven't truly “cut the cord”—they've unbundled it. For service providers, MSPs, or content vendors wondering if they have a place in the NCTC ecosystem, Borrelli extends a clear invitation: “If you have products or services that help our members succeed, we're open for business.” Learn more about NCTC and how your technology or content can help shape the next phase of convergence: https://www.nctconline.org.

“Well-being is a stronger metric of success than productivity when it comes to AI adoption—and a natural outcome of that well-being is more productivity.” — Paul Sephton, Global Head of Brand Communications, Jabra In this enlightening episode of Technology Reseller News, Publisher Doug Green interviews Paul Sephton, Global Head of Brand Communications at Jabra, about a new study conducted in partnership with the Happiness Research Institute. The report reveals a compelling insight: workers who use AI at work report higher well-being and job satisfaction. Why does this matter to Jabra? As Sephton explains, Jabra's mission goes beyond engineering headsets and video solutions—it's about optimizing the modern work experience. And as AI changes the nature of work, Jabra believes that cultural shifts, not just technical upgrades, will define whether AI enhances productivity and happiness. Key findings and themes from the podcast include: AI + Happiness: While not conclusive causation, there's a clear correlation between AI use and improved workplace well-being. Those who use AI more often tend to report higher satisfaction and purpose in their roles. From Fear to Optimism: The study shows a positive turn in sentiment. As AI becomes more ubiquitous and embedded in the day-to-day, optimism is rising—especially when organizations communicate transparently about their AI strategies. People-to-Machine Communication: Jabra is preparing for a future where not just people talk to people, but where we interact directly with AI agents. Enabling seamless communication between humans and AI will be essential—and Jabra aims to be at the center of that evolution. Well-Being as Strategy: Sephton urges leaders to treat employee well-being as a core indicator of successful change management. Transparency, experimentation, and culture are critical levers for embracing AI meaningfully. Jabra's Role: From professional audio and video collaboration gear to AI-optimized meeting room solutions, Jabra is developing the “eyes and ears” for enterprise AI—ensuring communication systems evolve as work itself transforms. To explore the full study, visit: https://www.jabra.com This podcast is part of Technology Reseller News' continuing coverage of AI, the future of work, and cloud communications. Jabra is a member of the Cloud Communications Alliance (CCA).

“We're now close to a quarter billion dollars in revenue, with operations across North America, EMEA, and APAC—and we're just getting started.” — Russ Reeder, CEO, XTIUM Technology Reseller News spoke with Russ Reeder, CEO, and Leon Schuurmans, Managing Director of EMEA at XTIUM, about the company's official launch of direct operations in Europe. The podcast, hosted by publisher Doug Green, offers a deep dive into XTIUM's journey from a merger of ATSG and Evolve IP into a global managed service provider (MSP) with a full suite of IT, UCaaS, CCaaS, MDR, and AI-powered offerings. The move into Europe builds on a longstanding foundation. Schuurmans recounted how the company—then Evolve IP—pioneered contact center and unified communications services in the Netherlands as early as 2007. Now, the new XTIUM brand brings integrated IT and communications services to a market increasingly seeking consolidation, scale, and security. Reeder emphasized the strategic advantages of global reach paired with local expertise. The company has over 1,700 customers and supports over one million endpoints. Backed by more than $1 billion in acquisitions and $350 million in private equity investment, XTIUM is well-positioned to serve multinational customers across North America, EMEA, and APAC. Key offerings discussed include: Full MSP services including managed network, help desk, UCaaS, and CCaaS AI-enabled services, from internal sales and support tools to client-facing AI onboarding, security, and optimization Cybersecurity and MDR, especially critical in the face of regulatory and infrastructure shifts like Windows 11 adoption The company also shared how its premium support model and customer success focus drive long-term growth. “We don't throw customers over the wall,” Reeder noted, outlining a high-touch process from onboarding to strategic reviews aimed at turning clients into evangelists. In EMEA, Schuurmans sees key vertical growth in healthcare, finance, retail, and professional services, driven by urgent needs around cybersecurity and desktop virtualization. He plans to scale both direct customer engagements and indirect channel partner relationships over the next 12–18 months. Looking ahead, XTIUM will continue to grow both organically and through acquisition. With a clearly stated goal to become the go-to global MSP for mid-market and enterprise customers, Reeder summed up the company's mission: “Think globally, act locally.” Learn more at: https://xtium.com

James Abercrombie breaks down the modern Acronis stack and the future of MSP enablement at GTIA ChannelCon “You don't know what you don't know—just test it.” — James Abercrombie, Software Vendor Technology Evangelist, Acronis At GTIA ChannelCon 2025, James Abercrombie of Acronis joined Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green to set the record straight: Acronis is no longer just a backup company. It's a full-featured platform designed to help MSPs grow, secure, and streamline their businesses—without patching together solutions from multiple vendors. “Acronis today means one console, one agent, one protection plan,” Abercrombie explained. In addition to backup and disaster recovery, the platform now includes remote monitoring and management (RMM), professional services automation (PSA), security, scripting, and deep integrations—all in one native environment. This integrated approach, he argues, allows MSPs to improve technician efficiency, reduce overhead, and deliver seamless customer experiences. For new customer onboarding, Acronis even eliminates reboot requirements—allowing services to be deployed faster and revenue to be recognized sooner. Abercrombie, a 20-year channel veteran and GTIA mentor, also discussed his work to support the next generation of MSPs through the Acronis Academy and MSP Academy. These programs provide real-world training to help MSPs break past growth plateaus and optimize marketing, support, and operations. “It's not just about being an MSP—it's about becoming a better MSP,” he said. From solo sysadmins-turned-business-owners to enterprise providers seeking scalable security, Abercrombie's message was clear: if you haven't seen Acronis lately, it's time to take another look. To learn more, visit acronis.com.

Degly Mendez shares a human-centered MSP philosophy built on trust, patience, and long-term partnerships at GTIA ChannelCon “No small business left behind.” — Degly Mendez, CEO, Avanzar IT Systems At GTIA ChannelCon 2025, Degly Mendez, CEO of Avanzar IT Systems, joined Doug Green of Technology Reseller News for a powerful and personal conversation about empathy, leadership, and how MSPs can meaningfully support small businesses. Avanzar IT Systems—Avanzar meaning “to move forward” in Spanish—specializes in serving small to medium-sized businesses across industries, including law firms, manufacturing, CPA offices, and real estate. But Mendez made clear that the company's mission is about more than just technology. “If we can help our clients move forward, we do it—whether they can afford it today or not.” Rather than focus on quick wins or transactional revenue, Mendez advocates for building relationships rooted in empathy, trust, and a long-term vision. “These aren't transactions,” he said. “These are partnerships that we hope will last years.” As a proud member and leader within GTIA—serving on the Cybersecurity Executive Council, ISAO Advisory Group, and as a frequent speaker—Mendez echoed the inclusive spirit of ChannelCon, where companies big and small share the same 10x10 space and voice. “Everyone needs help. And everyone can provide it.” With a guiding philosophy of “no small business left behind,” Mendez and Avanzar IT Systems are building a future where technology empowers—not excludes—businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit avanzaritsystems.com

Matt Horning shares the frontline MSP perspective from GTIA ChannelCon “AI is the new shiny object—but if you're not doing the basics, it becomes a threat vector, not a solution.” — Matt Horning, CEO, Blue Tree Technology At GTIA ChannelCon 2025, Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, sat down with Matt Horning, CEO of Kansas City-based MSP Blue Tree Technology, to capture the real-world experience of a managed service provider navigating AI hype, cybersecurity challenges, and industry fundamentals. Horning, whose firm serves clients across six states, shared that while Blue Tree is actively exploring AI for clients, the technology still feels like a beta product. “We're being pulled into AI,” Horning said. “Clients are asking for it, and we want to provide value—but it has to be aligned with our standards of excellence. No vaporware.” While AI dominated many sessions at ChannelCon, Horning pointed to the renewed emphasis on foundational practices—like patching, firewalling, and compliance—as the most valuable insight. “If you don't have the basics right, AI just adds risk.” Blue Tree Technology is known for its high standards and measured approach to emerging tech. At events like ChannelCon, Horning finds value not just in the content, but in the community of like-minded MSPs who are solving real-world problems—not just chasing the latest trend. To learn more, visit BlueTreeTechnology.com.

Daniel Maynard champions relationship-driven growth and real-world cyber readiness at GTIA ChannelCon “Today, people don't Google a solution—they call someone they trust.” — Daniel Maynard, Director, Strategic Partnerships, DeepSeas At GTIA ChannelCon 2025, Daniel Maynard of DeepSeas joined Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, for a thought-provoking conversation on the shift from transactional selling to trust-based influence—and what that means for cybersecurity partnerships today. DeepSeas is a comprehensive cybersecurity firm that helps organizations assess where they are on their security journey and builds customized roadmaps to reduce risk and improve resilience. Its services span governance, MDR, and offensive security tools like vulnerability assessments and penetration testing. But it was a book, not a tech stack, that anchored this discussion. Maynard introduced Nearbound by Jared Fuller—a playbook for winning in the “who economy,” where buyers prioritize recommendations from people they trust over product specs and search engines. Maynard described a real-life example of this principle in action: A major client preparing for an IPO sought cybersecurity guidance not from a web search, but through a trusted network of consultants and partners—ultimately leading them to DeepSeas. “The new buying motion is all about credibility and relationships,” Maynard explained. “It's not about how they find a product. It's about who they trust.” For channel leaders and MSPs, this shift underscores the importance of relationship-building, reliability, and reputation—key tenets for thriving in a referral-first world. To learn more about DeepSeas cybersecurity solutions, visit deepseas.com.

Executive council member shares how GTIA empowers managed services professionals at ChannelCon 2025 “It's not a good day unless you learn something new.” — Christopher Infante, Chair, Managed Services Community, GTIA Podcasting from GTIA's ChannelCon 2025, Doug Green of Technology Reseller News sat down with Christopher Infante, Executive Council Member of GTIA and Chair of its Managed Services Community, to explore how the association is reshaping opportunity and education for MSPs around the world. Infante, who manages Forward Edge, an education-focused MSP with over 130 employees, emphasized the importance of GTIA as a “channel connector”—bringing together MSPs, vendors, and IT professionals to elevate the entire industry through collaboration, community, and shared learning. This year's ChannelCon marked the first official event under the GTIA brand, and according to Infante, the energy was unlike anything he's seen at other conferences. “There's more excitement here… people are chomping at the bit to see what's coming next.” One of those “nexts,” Infante revealed, is a forthcoming educational program tailored to newcomers and veterans alike—designed to demystify the channel and onboard professionals from any starting point. GTIA also supports MSP growth with ongoing meetups and certifications like the Cybersecurity Trustmark, helping members elevate their practices and demonstrate trust to clients. For Infante personally, the conference delivered insight on trending topics such as AI implementation, governance, and ethical usage—as well as practical takeaways from keynote speaker Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor. When asked why MSPs should get involved, Infante didn't hesitate: “You'll surround yourself with people who want to grow—not just in their business, but in their community. And that's transformational.” To learn more or get involved, visit gtia.org.

Ameet Dhillon explains why the BIOS layer is the next cybersecurity frontier at GTIA ChannelCon “You protect the OS and application layer—why not protect the BIOS that launches them?” — Ameet Dhillon, FirmGuard by Phoenix At GTIA ChannelCon 2025, Ameet Dhillon of FirmGuard joined Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, to introduce a vital but often overlooked part of the MSP security stack: remote BIOS management. FirmGuard, a solution by Phoenix Technologies, allows MSPs to remotely update, configure, and monitor BIOS firmware across mixed hardware environments—Dell, HP, Lenovo, and more. “Most MSPs know BIOS is critical,” Dhillon explained, “but they lack an efficient, cross-manufacturer way to manage it.” As endpoint protection at the OS and application levels improves, attackers have begun targeting the firmware layer below the operating system. Agencies like CISA have issued warnings that BIOS vulnerabilities are an emerging threat vector—and FirmGuard is built to fill that gap. With FirmGuard, MSPs gain immediate visibility into BIOS vulnerabilities, outdated firmware, and legacy-mode systems that may need replacement. The platform operates fully remotely, eliminating truck rolls and improving technician efficiency. At just $1.50 per endpoint per month, FirmGuard's pricing makes it easy for MSPs to add to their security offering while preserving margin. “We're not just a monitoring tool,” Dhillon emphasized. “We give MSPs actionable insight—and the ability to act.” To learn more or request access to the MSP program, visit firmguard.com.

Steve Copeland on empowering the channel with portable, multi-carrier connectivity at GTIA ChannelCon “We're built by an MSP—for MSPs.” — Steve Copeland, RYTHMz At GTIA's ChannelCon 2025, Steve Copeland, CEO of RYTHMz, sat down with Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green to share how his company is redefining connectivity with a turnkey solution: Internet in a Box. Purpose-built for MSPs, public safety, and event deployment, the ruggedized, multi-carrier platform offers rapid, portable internet anywhere—and opens the door to new recurring revenue opportunities. RYTHMz's solution was born from a real-world need. After fixing a mission-critical outage at a VIP event in Beverly Hills, Copeland began prototyping a compact, field-ready internet kit that MSPs could deploy at concerts, libraries, hospitals, schools, and beyond. Today, the system supports 5G bonding across Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T networks with real-time failover for uptime-critical operations—from POS systems at Comic-Con to disaster response at a public library following a fiber outage. “Our partners have deployed these at Coldplay concerts, ESPN live broadcasts, fiber installation fleets, and charter schools,” Copeland said. “If your customer can't go down, we're the ‘new internet' they need.” RYTHMz solutions start at $295/month, with channel partners renting or bundling the hardware to deliver high-availability connectivity without CAPEX. The platform offers both revenue protection and continuity—especially for MSPs who are already fielding outage-related calls without compensation. “We're already taking the calls. Why not get paid for them?” Copeland asks. As a longtime member of the MSP community, Copeland closed with a message about mentorship: “Grab someone and teach. We've got to pass this knowledge down.” To learn more about RYTHMz, visit rythmz.com.

Dan Wensley outlines GTIA's bold vision for a member-driven, globally connected IT channel “We're here to support and help the IT channel grow... and provide a level playing field community.” — Dan Wensley, GTIA In a milestone interview recorded live at the inaugural GTIA ChannelCon 2025, Dan Wensley, CEO of the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA), joined Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, to discuss the organization's renewed mission, global scope, and member-first model. Wensley shared that GTIA emerged from the historic CompTIA organization after the divestiture of its training and certification business. What remains is a sharpened focus on the channel—vendors, distributors, ITSPs, MSPs, and professionals—built around community, education, advocacy, and advancement. “This is a new brand, a new image, and a new vision,” said Wensley. “We're not here to sell certifications—we're here to serve the channel.” GTIA's newly structured events, like ChannelCon, offer equal opportunity to all participants regardless of company size. “This is not pay to play,” Wensley emphasized. “Every exhibitor gets the same booth, and every member pays virtually the same amount to participate.” The 2025 conference featured AI and cybersecurity content, but Wensley was deliberate in ensuring AI wasn't allowed to dominate every conversation. “Our members told us they still have businesses to run, so our programming reflects that.” GTIA's global ambition is more than just a name. With members in over 150 countries and expanding regional communities, GTIA is becoming a global hub for thought leadership, networking, and shared best practices. With events already planned for Indonesia, Australia, and a return to the UK, the association is scaling its reach alongside its renewed mission. Wensley closed with a call to action: “If you're in the IT services industry, join us. Let's grow this channel together.” To learn more or become a member, visit gtia.org.

Angelo Simao explains how MSPs can scale smarter with on-demand IT labor at GTIA ChannelCon “Don't go it alone… Let us fill those gaps.” — Angelo Simao, F2OnSite At GTIA's ChannelCon 2025 in Nashville, Angelo Simao, COO of F2OnSite, joined Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green to discuss a critical and often overlooked challenge in the channel: how to deliver IT services beyond your geographic footprint without the HR burden. F2OnSite offers “Labor as a Service”—a flexible and scalable solution for MSPs, system integrators, and large IT vendors that need expert hands and feet in the field, whether across the country or across hundreds of client sites. “Instead of flying your team across states, you call us,” said Simao. “We've been building a national technician network since 2007.” The model enables MSPs to extend their reach and capabilities without maintaining an in-house bench or enduring the cost and complexity of screening new talent for every job. With a vetted pool of thousands of technicians and hundreds of active W-2 staff, F2OnSite can deploy the right resource—by skill, region, and even environment fit—whether it's a single emergency call or a 600-site desktop rollout. “We're the silent partner,” Simao noted. “You may never see us, but we're helping you scale smarter.” As the labor market continues to tighten and IT skills become increasingly specialized, Simao urged MSPs to rethink how they handle project delivery and service calls. “Nobody can do it all. And when you're flooded with resumes and time is tight, we can help you focus on execution, not recruitment.” To learn more about how F2OnSite supports MSPs nationwide, visit f2onsite.com.

Alberto Francis champions end-user empathy, proactive insights, and monetization at GTIA ChannelCon “I heart Service Desk.” — Alberto Francis, President & CEO, Black Birch Group At ChannelCon 2025, hosted by GTIA in Nashville, Alberto Francis of Black Birch Group sat down with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, to deliver a bold and unexpected message: the service desk deserves more love—and attention as a growth driver. Francis, a self-described “talker” with a background in financial services IT, explained how his passion for human connection led him to build a company centered on crafting customized service desk experiences for MSPs. “It's the one place users interact with us daily,” said Francis. “It should be loved 24/7.” According to Francis, the service desk is an untapped source of business intelligence. “Why is it that 20 new user onboardings don't trigger a conversation about growth?” he asked, citing missed opportunities for MSPs to proactively engage clients on automation, workflow efficiency, and scaling support. He envisions a smarter, more proactive desk that not only solves tickets but flags business trends before they reach the executive suite. Black Birch Group's approach is to build desks that deliver “white-glove” experiences with KPI strategies that go beyond vanity metrics. Instead of just measuring closure rates, Francis encourages MSPs to ask, “Are we collecting insights that drive business?” His message to MSPs at ChannelCon: “Let's start by talking. If we work together to improve the desk, opportunities will follow.” Francis believes that passion and proactive design can turn the service desk from a cost center into a strategic advantage. To learn more, visit blackbirchgroup.com

“Even today, roughly two-thirds of the people I interview have never had professional IT support. I'm still bringing fire to the caveman.” — Joshua Liberman, Net Sciences At GTIA's ChannelCon 2025 in Nashville, Joshua Liberman, President of Net Sciences, joined Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, for a compelling conversation that spanned career origins, MSP evolution, M&A strategy, and the role of AI in cybersecurity. Liberman began with a colorful personal journey—from hitchhiking and odd jobs to discovering his path in IT by making a PC work overnight with nothing but instinct and manuals. That moment launched a 30-year career culminating in Net Sciences, which he founded in 1995 and steadily grew into a dedicated managed services provider (MSP) with a focus on underserved small businesses in New Mexico and beyond. Despite the maturity of the IT industry, Liberman underscored that “greenfield” opportunities remain widespread. “I frequently see $10, $20, $25 million businesses that have never had professional IT,” he noted, pointing to the enduring need for education and reliable support in every market—even major ones. Liberman also offered advice to MSPs preparing for long-term success or acquisition. “Start with the end in mind,” he advised. “Build a truly stable, scalable machine that can run without your input… you sell a better business.” On AI, Liberman expressed cautious optimism. While recognizing its inevitability and potential, especially within ASCII's growing framework initiatives under CEO Jerry Katavas, he warned of premature deployments and the risks of weaponization in cybersecurity. “We have a tendency to push [technology] out the door before it's able to walk,” he said. As a respected figure within the ASCII community, Liberman hinted at future conversations around both AI integration and M&A strategy for MSPs. For more about Net Sciences, visit netsciences.com.

Technology Reseller News Podcast with Dave Michels, TalkingPointz "AI and automation is really all that anyone cares about right now. And this is a power combination." — Dave Michels, TalkingPointz In this Technology Reseller News podcast, publisher Doug Green speaks with Dave Michels of TalkingPointz to unpack NICE's blockbuster $955 million acquisition of Cognigy, a move that signals a transformative leap in the CX and CCaaS landscape. “This is a landmark moment,” said Michels. “We're watching the CCaaS space redefine itself around CX—and NICE is taking decisive action.” NICE, a global leader in AI-powered customer experience, announced it is acquiring Cognigy, the top enterprise provider of conversational and agentic AI. This acquisition unites NICE's CXone Mpower platform with Cognigy's Cognigy.AI, enabling organizations to orchestrate AI agents across front and back office functions with purpose-built CX AI models. Michels noted that while CCaaS providers have been increasingly positioning themselves under the broader ‘customer experience' banner, this acquisition may be the inflection point. “I've been wondering when the Magic Quadrant would shift from CCaaS to CX. This deal brings us closer.” Cognigy brings with it a blue-chip client list—including Lufthansa, Mercedes-Benz, Swissair, Nestlé, and Puma—and a projected 80% ARR growth in 2026. NICE gains not only powerful technology, but also an elite customer base and a strong European footprint. As for whether the nearly $1 billion price tag was justified, Michels pointed to investor confidence: “NICE gained $500 million in market cap within hours of the announcement. That's Wall Street's endorsement of the deal.” He also predicts that NICE will maintain Cognigy's independence. “To shut down their open ecosystem would be foolhardy. These are complementary solutions—this gives NICE a broader seat at the CX table.” From cultural alignment to AI-first innovation, Michels sees the deal as smart and strategically sound. “Both companies are platform-first. Both are chasing the same strategic vision—and they're better together.” As the contact center market pivots to CX orchestration powered by AI, this acquisition may come to be seen not just as timely, but foundational. To hear more insights from Dave Michels, visit TalkingPointz.com, and stay tuned to Technology Reseller News for continued coverage of this evolving story.

“We're not here to compete with MSPs—we're here to help them grow, take on more business, and deliver more value to their clients.” — Amy Kincaid, Vice President, Robert Half In this live podcast recorded from Podcast Row at ChannelCon 2025, Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, interviews Amy Kincaid, Vice President at Robert Half, to explore how the global talent solutions firm is empowering managed service providers (MSPs) to scale confidently into new markets. With over 300 offices globally and a deep technology talent network enhanced by AI tools, Robert Half is not just another staffing firm. “We've evolved well beyond finance and accounting,” says Kincaid. “In technology, we're enabling MSPs to take on complex, high-demand projects—cloud migrations, AI implementations, ERP rollouts—by delivering vetted, on-demand expertise that aligns precisely with their clients' needs.” Kincaid describes a powerful example: An MSP landed an AI implementation opportunity but lacked internal staff to execute. Instead of passing or overcommitting, the MSP partnered with Robert Half to bring in AI engineers on contract, allowing them to deliver the solution and retain the client. “It's not about hiring full-time. It's about being agile and accessing the right skills, fast,” Kincaid notes. Robert Half's searchable talent database matches highly specific criteria—from certifications and past performance to geography and client industry. Whether the need is for a Dallas-based data engineer with Azure Data Factory experience or a remote cybersecurity architect, the system delivers fast, reliable matches. And in today's remote-friendly world, that speed and precision often makes the difference between winning and losing deals. “We've worked with over 170 MSPs this year alone,” says Kincaid. “Our model supports everything from Tier 1 helpdesk to high-level security and AI roles. We're not replacing MSPs; we're augmenting them so they can say yes to more.” To learn more about Robert Half's specialized technology staffing services, visit https://www.roberthalf.com. MSPs and IT leaders can also connect directly with Amy Kincaid on LinkedIn to discuss opportunities and workforce needs. — Listen to the full podcast at Technology Reseller News ️Featuring: Amy Kincaid, Vice President, Robert Half Hosted by: Doug Green, Publisher, Technology Reseller News Recorded live at ChannelCon 2025, Podcast Row