As Singapore continues its rapid technological advancement, the importance of cloud technology grows exponentially for organizations seeking cost-effective solutions. The study encompassed nearly 900 partners across eight countries, including Singapore, revealing that an overwhelming 89% of Singaporean respondents prioritize developing a cloud practice, a figure notably higher than the international average of 85%.
Rising Demand for Cloud Solutions
Increasing Adoption of Cloud Infrastructure
The projections from IDC suggest that by 2025, a remarkable 65% of Asia-based organizations will transition their operational data to cloud infrastructure, moving away from traditional on-premises setups. This shift is driven by the potential cost savings, scalability, and flexibility that cloud solutions offer. Channel partners, operating as the vital link in this technological chain, play a crucial role in assisting organizations with their cloud transition. Through their specialized expertise, these partners help navigate the complexities and advantages that cloud technology delivers. However, as the demand for cloud services continues to rise, these partners face mounting pressures to enhance their capabilities and meet customer expectations effectively.
Challenges Faced by Singaporean Partners
Despite the promising outlook, Singaporean channel partners encounter notable challenges in their quest to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for cloud technology. According to the research, over two-thirds (68%) of partners report that customers specifically seek specialized cloud skills, yet only 59% of respondents express confidence in their ability to provide such services. This disparity underscores a significant skills gap within the industry. Additionally, 41% of respondents identify skill shortages as a substantial barrier, particularly in technical and financial operations (FinOps). The inability to hire and retain qualified talent exacerbates these challenges, hindering partners’ capacity to fully meet client needs and deliver exceptional cloud services.
Navigating Cloud Provider Programs
Struggles with Cloud Cost Optimization
Capitalizing on cloud provider programs emerges as another significant challenge, with 59% of Singaporean partners expressing difficulties in this area. These programs are designed to empower partners to advise clients on optimizing cloud costs, yet the complexity and dynamic nature of these programs can be overwhelming. As a result, partners face hurdles in leveraging these opportunities effectively, impacting their ability to add value to client engagements. Furthermore, 63% of partners find cloud pricing models to be intricate and convoluted, complicating efforts to offer transparent and predictable cost structures to clients. This complexity can lead to challenges in communicating the true cost benefits of cloud adoption to potential customers.
Security and Market Competition
Security requirements and the intense competition within the market further compound the difficulties faced by Singaporean partners. Approximately 39% of respondents acknowledge the necessity to deliver superior and quicker solutions compared to their competitors, a pressure that demands both agility and constant innovation. The fast-paced nature of the cloud market requires partners to be not only knowledgeable but also adept at swiftly implementing solutions that meet stringent security standards. Balancing these demands while ensuring competitiveness represents a significant challenge, driving partners to continuously refine their strategies and capabilities in order to stay ahead in the evolving technological landscape.
Global Perspectives on Cloud Adoption
Engagement with Cloud Hyperscaler Marketplaces
On a global scale, the research reveals that 75% of channel partners engage with cloud hyperscaler marketplaces, such as those offered by leading cloud providers. These marketplaces serve as crucial platforms for partners to expand their reach, access a broader customer base, and offer a diverse array of cloud services. The report indicates that nearly half of the partners view training and enablement from distributors as essential support mechanisms in navigating these marketplaces. These training programs help partners build the skills and knowledge necessary to leverage hyperscaler platforms effectively, enhancing their ability to deliver transformative cloud solutions to clients.
Born-in-the-Cloud Partners
The study also highlights the emergence of “born-in-the-cloud” partners, with approximately 25% identifying as such. These partners have built their businesses entirely around cloud solutions, demonstrating a deep alignment with the cloud-first approach. Additionally, 23% of respondents are in the process of transitioning from on-premise solutions to cloud practices. This transition reflects a broader industry trend towards embracing the cloud, driven by the need for innovation, growth, and enhanced productivity. Westcon-Comstor’s increased focus on its cloud strategy, evidenced by its expanded distribution agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS) in the Asia-Pacific region, underscores the importance of supporting partners through this transformative journey.
Looking Towards the Future
Support from Distributors
In light of these findings, the role of distributors in supporting channel partners becomes increasingly clear. David Grant, CEO of Westcon-Comstor, emphasizes the necessity for distributors to help partners bridge the skill gaps and achieve their cloud aspirations. Jacquie Young, Managing Director of Cloud, APAC at Westcon-Comstor, echoes this sentiment, highlighting that embracing the cloud is integral for fostering innovation, growth, and productivity. However, she also acknowledges the ongoing journey that partners face in mastering cloud capabilities. The collaborative efforts between distributors and channel partners are pivotal in overcoming the challenges posed by skill shortages, complex pricing models, and security requirements.
The Path to Cloud Mastery
As Singapore rapidly advances in technology, the relevance of cloud technology becomes increasingly significant for organizations looking for cost-effective solutions. A recent research report titled “Mastering the Maze,” published by Westcon-Comstor, delves into the initiatives of channel partners in Singapore aimed at bolstering their cloud capabilities in response to growing customer demand. The study surveyed nearly 900 partners across eight countries, including Singapore, and found that a remarkable 89% of respondents from Singapore prioritize developing a cloud practice. This percentage is significantly higher than the international average of 85%, indicating a heightened emphasis on cloud technology within the region. These findings underscore the critical importance of cloud adoption in maintaining competitive advantage, and local firms are keenly aware of this necessity. The prioritization of cloud capabilities highlights the ongoing transition and adaptation required to meet the increasing demands, ensuring that Singapore remains at the forefront of global technological innovation.