Accelerating Time to Value with your Partner

In the technology space we serve, time is of the essence. ?Whether it's connecting disparate systems, implementing new software, or upgrading existing infrastructure, delivering expected results in as little time as possible is how we generate value. This is why a critical measurement of our work is "Time to Value" (TTV). The significance of TTV in partnerships and the strategies it takes to accelerate the realization of value is so important for everyone involved. By standing up client projects quickly, you will strengthen your relationships with your partners that sell the software licenses your company is implementing on their behalf.

Understanding Time to Value

Time to Value (TTV) is a measure of how long it takes to see tangible benefits from an investment, particularly in the context of partnerships. The shorter the TTV, the quicker an organization can start reaping the rewards of its integration efforts.

But why is that important as it pertains to partnerships, you ask? ?Achieving rapid TTV is vital. It can help with your success stories with their product, your ability to grow your footprint within other selling teams, and help your delivery team learn how to stand up your partner’s product efficiently and effectively. This helps your partner sell more and expand your service options with that client.? To be a good partner, you want to have a good TTV for the products you are implementing to show success and growth with the client.

Factors Impacting TTV from a Partners POV

• Depending on if you are bringing the partner into the client or vice versa, clear objectives are crucial. Understanding the client's needs and what is being positioned in the account is very important.? By making sure everyone is on the same page, you can define what you want to achieve together to ensure you’re both working toward a common goal.
• Make sure that your skills align well with the goals of the client.? We all know that sometimes we can say we have all the skills but not everyone is great at all things.? It is best to ensure that when you align, you are the best partner to implement what the partner is selling to the client. This seems so simple, but this could be the hardest piece of the puzzle.
• Employ an agile approach to break the project into smaller, manageable segments, allowing for quicker implementation and frequent testing. This iterative process enables you to identify and address issues promptly.
• Equipping your team with the knowledge and tools to adapt to the new integrated system is vital. An effective training and change management strategy can significantly reduce downtime and errors during the transition.

Accelerating Time to Value

• Develop a prototype, proof, or demo of the concept early in the project. This allows stakeholders to visualize the end result of the implemented solution and provide feedback, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and scope changes down the road. You can also take this and turn it into a demo or proof of concept that will help to gain credibility and trust with your software partner. Double win!
• Maintain open lines of communication with your partner. Regular meetings, status updates, and issue resolution ensure that the project stays on course. This will help you combat problems that arise with the customer along with identifying new places where you can find value together.
• Staying in contact with the partner team on the account post-integration to address any teething issues or adjustments needed after the initial launch. Quick response times for troubleshooting ensure a smoother transition for the client as well as for your partner.? Seeing your commitment to the project is another great way to build on your partnership.

Swift Time to Value is a critical factor for client and partner success. A well-defined strategy, efficient planning, and effective communication with your partner are key to accelerating TTV. By focusing on business-critical areas, and prioritizing open communication, organizations can harness the full potential of their initiatives sooner, realizing cost savings and competitive advantages quicker than ever before.