All You Need to Know about Software Distributors

Ahoy there, Software as a Service (SaaS) trailblazers! In this post, we’re embarking on a journey through the exciting distribution business of software distributors – also known as value added resellers; learning how they make things happen so your favorite apps magically find their way to your devices.

What is Software Distribution?

Picture this: you’re itching to get your hands on the latest, greatest software. Maybe it’s a game that promises to transport you to an otherworldly realm or a productivity tool that will help you become more efficient with handling your daily tasks. But now, you’re not very sure how that software can reach you. Enter the software distributor, the experts who know just how to make that happen.

In the world of technology, a software distributor is like the postal service. Their distribution business makes sure your desired software reaches your digital doorstep with finesse. They’re also the middle players between original equipment manufacturers and users – software resellers making sure everyone gets what they want out of a created product.

So in a way, you can also think of those in the software distribution business as the matchmakers of the tech world. Developers create, and distributors swoop in to make sure what’s been created meets its perfect match – that’s you! They do inventory control and run a distribution channel that makes sure you have a seamless integration of software into your devices.

Why Software Distributors are important

Now, you might be wondering, “Why bother with these distributors when I could just download everything straight from the internet?” Excellent question! The answer to that is, that while direct downloads are like taking the scenic route to access software, software distributors are the expressway to it. Some of the reasons why these distributors are significant include:

1. Speed: Ever felt the agony of a sluggish download speed? Well, that never happens with software distributors. These guys’ business operations and inventory control see them armed with servers strategically placed across the digital landscape, to make sure your software reaches you at a quick speed.

2. Safety: We all know that cybersecurity is no joke, and that’s why software distributors are preferred. Distributors add an extra layer of security, vetting and verifying the software they deliver.

3. User-Friendly Experience: Imagine a world where you have to manually install and update every piece of software on your device. Nightmare, right? Well, software distributors automate this process, turning your tech experience into a hassle-free one, and ensuring your customer satisfaction.

4 Customer relationship management: In business operations, having a software distributor helps you handle customer relationship management with ease. Customer relationship management is important for software developers who want to make sure their users have the best experience with their products.

5 Warehouse management: Software distributors, in a way, are warehouse managers. They are channel partners who engage in order processing, watching stock levels of software, dealing with pricing options, market share of software, and purchase orders. These are all parts of warehouse management – a need many software developers have.

How Software Distributors and Distribution Businesses Work

Now that you’re well-acquainted with software distribution, let’s break down the process of software delivery and how software distributors contribute to it.

1. Developer starts the story: It all starts in the developer’s studio. Developers are the people who create pieces of software set to revolutionize your digital existence. But alas, after they’re done creating, it’s all still trapped in their creative bubble, and they have to deal with supply chain management.

2. Enter Distributors: Right after is the stage where software distributors or value added resellers come into play. They sweep in, purchase software licenses from the developer’s hands, and package it for complete visibility. They handle the supply chain management.

3. Digital journey begins: Then, the packaged software sets sail across systems, riding the waves of high-speed internet to reach the distributor’s servers or distribution centers for order processing. Note that sometimes, software distributors can even function as wholesale distributors.

4. Reaching the User: Finally, after the software gets to the distributor, the distributor or distributors get it across to you, the user, with a few clicks, taps, or magical swipes. Voila! You have your customer satisfaction, the manufacturer has their cash flow, and your digital adventure begins.

Finding the Perfect Software Distributor

Now that you’re in the loop on the services, tools, and market intricacies of software distribution, how do you choose the right dance partner for your digital endeavors? Let’s take a look at two major guidelines:

1 Speed: Literally, speed matters. Look for distributors who can provide you with the services you require, tools strategically scattered across the globe, and a strong standing in the software market. The faster the speed of the services you get, the sooner you’ll be enjoying your new software having a place in the market.

Security Swagger: Nobody wants malware-infested software services, so check if your potential distributor has robust security measures in place.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the role of software distributors and distribution businesses outlined, plus all you need to know about them. They work with a developer’s marketing team (if one’s available) to monitor inventory levels, execute lead generation, customer orders, and even new revenue streams for all parties. Some developers, as a result, work with one or many distributors and channel partners with core competencies to increase efficiency of their sales and get them new customers, fulfill order delivery, and lead generation.

If you’re a software developer looking to partner with distributors or channel partners, or a SaaS enthusiast looking for the best inventory management software, there are many platforms to check out — but why not check out Relavate?

Ours is a platform to register, track, and manage partner deals and monitor your sales pipeline. Start your journey with us today here.