NetApp’s Channel Connect Conference Did Not Disappoint
NetApp held their third annual Channel Connect Conference (C3) from June 5-6, 2019 in San Diego, California. I was fortunate enough to attend on behalf of the Evolving Solutions team. This was also my third time attending, and I learn more every time regarding NetApp’s hybrid cloud strategy, key partnerships and technology advancements.
During the event, a lot of time was spent discussing NetApp’s data fabric solutions and message, and how this ties perfectly into a client’s cloud strategy. From being able to leverage on-premise NetApp solutions, to extending the data fabric to public cloud providers like Azure and AWS, NetApp is “all in” on enabling a seamless experience. This is a critical technological advantage, as the data suggests that by 2025, the majority of IT buyers will be Millennials and Gen Z buyers. They are looking for a seamless, integrated, and cost-effective approach to managing their technology environments.
During the event, we heard from key alliance partners including Nvidia, Cisco, Microsoft (Azure) and Lenovo. These partnerships are driving innovations in the areas of machine learning, artificial intelligence, converged platforms, public cloud, Kubernetes, etc.
The absolute highlight of the conference was hearing from Kate Swanborg, senior vice president of Technology Communications and Strategic Alliances at DreamWorks. Kate shared an exciting and informative overview of the tight partnership between DreamWorks and NetApp. Kate has been quoted as saying: “NetApp is the leader in hybrid cloud data services. Having used NetApp solutions on all of our CG animated feature films, DreamWorks trusts NetApp to deliver the data services our filmmakers rely on to innovate today and tomorrow, as they unleash creativity and dream new realities.”
Another highlight of the conference was seizing the opportunity to meet many of the NetApp local account executives, solution architects, subject matter experts, managers and executives. Over 1,500 NetApp employees were also in San Diego for training. It was a great opportunity to have both the NetApp and channel team members in one place hearing the same messages together. Be on the lookout for announcements around new all-flash solutions, cloud enhancements, etc. in the coming days.
The best quote of the conference was originally said by Mark Twain over 100 years ago, but is extremely relevant in today’s constantly changing technology landscape: “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” The Evolving Solutions team is well down our hybrid cloud journey, and we look forward to continuing to drive innovation with NetApp for our clients.
Bo Gebbie joined Evolving Solutions in January, 2017 as the Vice President of Sales, Services and Marketing. In this role, he is responsible for the sales, pre-sales services, post-sales consulting and marketing pillars within the organization. He is a member of the Executive and Management Teams, and represents the organization externally on vendor and partner Advisory Councils.
Before joining Evolving Solutions, Bo was an IBM executive, serving last as Vice President of Server Solution Sales, North America. In that role, he had sales and profit responsibility for a $3B portfoilio across Power Systems, z Systems and the Server Linux brands. Prior to that, Bo was the Business Unit Executive, Power Systems Sales, North America.
Like what you read? Follow Bo on LinkedIn.
