Bringing partner selection into the 2020s - but will the big boys play?

Really excited about the launch of the GSA Partner Platform on Tuesday – think checkatrade.com but for the sourcing industry. This is by far the most revolutionary initiative from the GSA to date. I believe this will disrupt an industry being disrupted, but in a wholly positive way. As the sourcing eco-system continues to change at a pace the GSA is delighted to present hundreds and soon thousands of potential partners from around the world for our members to select from – safe in the knowledge that they are proven players.

When I told an eminent sourcing adviser about our plans his reply was: “You’ve got balls of steel, but I’m slightly worried we’ll find you in the Thames with concrete boots on”. This surprised me, but I think he may just have had a point. Out of those registered to attend our launch webinar 90% are buyers no doubt really interested in finding out more about the Platform and how they can easily and free of charge build a list of suitable providers / partners that meet their criteria based on bona fide customer reviews.

Providers should see this as an excellent route to get their brands in front of potential customers; a transparent way to be positioned in dynamically changing leader boards, as well as a great route to find new partners.

The small players clearly do and are clamouring to get onboarded, but the larger players are currently conspicuous by their absence. I’m hoping that it’s diary constraints rather than an unwillingness to participate – as all those not on the Partner Platform should be perceived as having something to hide. Event details here: https://www.gsa-uk.com/event-3708095