Siemens PLM Software Improves Channel Partner Productivity

PLANO, TEXAS, April 8, 2008 – Siemens PLM Software, a business unit of the Siemens Industry Automation Division and a leading global provider of product lifecycle management (PLM) software and services, today announced improved productivity throughout its global channel due to an aggressive enablement campaign launched in early 2007.

“Over the past year we have focused our efforts on partner enablement,” said Kerry Grimes, vice president, mid market and global channel sales, Siemens PLM Software, and recently named CRN Channel Chief. “That focus has led to improved productivity in our partners around the globe and their feedback tells us our enablement execution is on the right path.”

Siemens PLM Software increases the success and productivity of channel partners through multiple enablement programs which include close channel management support, sales and technical training as well as marketing initiatives. According to its most recent annual channel partner survey, partners gave Siemens PLM Software top ratings in the following categories: product understanding, sales call support, Partner Portal and sales training delivery.

In addition to this data, channel partners provided the following feedback regarding productivity and revenue growth over the past year:

• "Siemens PLM Software has assembled a world class executive team to develop and deliver a world class channel program,” said, Saeed Paydarfar, CEO, Saratech Inc. (www.saratechinc.com). “Saratech’s PLM revenue has grown by nearly 500 percent and we expect exceptional growth next year as well. None of this would be possible without Siemens PLM Software’s belief and commitment. We are very excited to hear about new plans and initiatives focused on continuously improving channel performance.”
  
• “Siemens PLM Software’s focus and commitment to the channel over the last few years has delivered positive measurable results,” said Allan Blackwell, managing director, Cutting Edge Solutions Ltd. (www.CuttingEdge.co.uk) “Their genuine desire to do business through the channel is evident in the level of support we receive. The total experience of doing business with Siemens PLM Software is very positive from sales enablement to day-to-day support. Recently they supported us in a very successful lead generating seminar. In addition, there is a high level of collaboration on sales engagements while protecting our margin. All this has helped us achieve phenomenal results in the last few years, including 38 percent growth this past year.”
  
• “We exceeded our goals for the year early,” said Tom Gaunt, president, netPLM (www.netplm.com). “One of the major reasons we’re successful is due to the support of the Siemens PLM Software organization. They are very supportive of their channel. They help us succeed through sales training, technical certifications as well as application support in customer engagements. I’m impressed with how well their direct sales team works with the channel. We mutually bring each other into sales opportunities to leverage each other’s strengths. There is a high level of trust. I’ve experienced Siemens PLM Software’s ‘Never Let a Customer Fail’ commitment firsthand many times. They are committed to making each of their customers successful, which enables me as a sales partner to be more successful.”
  
• “We benefit from the sales enablement Siemens PLM Software provides through their Global Sales Training annual event,” said Mike Swanson, regional manager, MAYA Simulation Technologies (www.mayahtt.com). “We are provided the same information at the same time as their direct sales force. That is important because it also helps us build relationships with those direct sales people so we can collaborate on larger deals.”
  
• “Siemens PLM Software has shown through increased investment and support that it is committed to enhancing its channel relationships and helping channel partners succeed,” said Zhu Cai Hua, general manager, UDS. “UDS prides itself in providing our customers with best-in-class technology and service and the support that Siemens PLM Software has provided in the development of our employees is invaluable. We have benefited strongly from the sales, marketing and technical training.”

Siemens PLM Software continues to make investments in improving partner productivity. In 2008, the company is investing in marketing, training and enablement as well as making it easier to collaborate through simplified business processes. Examples include simplified and tailored access to marketing programs through a newly launched Partner Pocket Portal, expanded availability of online classes via Partner University, and improved account and opportunity collaboration with deal registration through the Salesforce.com PRM Portal.

Channel partners are able to sell a mix of Siemens PLM Software technologies including NX, Velocity Series, Teamcenter and Tecnomatix. For more information on the Siemens Solution Partner PLM Program visit www.siemens.com/plm/partners.

About Siemens PLM Software

Siemens PLM Software, a business unit of the Siemens Industry Automation Division, is a leading global provider of product lifecycle management (PLM) software and services with 4.6 million licensed seats and 51,000 customers worldwide. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Siemens PLM Software’s open enterprise solutions enable a world where organizations and their partners collaborate through Global Innovation Networks to deliver world-class products and services. For more information on Siemens PLM Software products and services, visit www.siemens.com/plm.

About Siemens Industry Automation Division

The Siemens Industry Automation Division (Nuremberg), a division of the Siemens Industry Sector, is a worldwide leader in the fields of automation systems, low-voltage switchgear and industrial software. Its portfolio ranges from standard products for the manufacturing and process industry to solutions for whole industries and systems that encompass the automation of entire automobile production facilities and chemical plants. As a leading software supplier, Industry Automation optimizes the entire value added chain of manufacturers – from product design and development to production, sales and a wide range of maintenance services.

Note: Siemens and the Siemens logo are registered trademarks of Siemens AG. NX, Teamcenter, Tecnomatix and Velocity Series are trademarks or registered trademarks of Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and in other countries. All other trademarks, registered trademarks or service marks belong to their respective holders.