HP Powers AI Literacy in the Channel

November 12, 2024
Article, Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence, Channel, Trends

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries, the technology channel must adapt and evolve to seize the opportunities that this new era presents. However, the complexity of AI can be daunting, and many partners may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to fully capitalise on this opportunity. HP has introduced a new channel programme, HP Amplify AI, designed to empower its channel partners with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of AI. This programme aims to equip partners with the tools and expertise to adapt their businesses to the AI era, fostering innovation and driving growth.

Unlocking the potential of AI

The rapid advancement of AI is reshaping industries and creating unprecedented opportunities. Quocirca’s AI Trends 2024 study reveals that AI is the top reported technology investment area for organisations, with 84% planning to increase AI expenditure. Key drivers for AI adoption include cost reduction (31%), enhancing customer service (29%), and automating repetitive tasks (27%).

However, organisations face challenges in navigating the hype of AI and identifying genuine business transformation opportunities. Quocirca’s research around AI adoption cites top challenges related to security and data privacy (31%), accuracy of AI output (28%), and job displacement (25%).

The technology channel is pivotal in helping customers adopt AI by bridging the gap between complex technology and business needs. The expected move to refresh PC fleets to gain access to embedded AI capabilities will significantly impact the channel. To remain competitive and capitalise on this opportunity, resellers must deepen their understanding of AI technology at the technical and capability levels. As trusted advisors, channel partners should be able to identify relevant AI solutions, assess their suitability, and guide customers through the implementation process. Additionally, they can provide ongoing support, training, and maintenance, ensuring AI technologies’ successful adoption and optimisation while uncovering new revenue streams.

HP Amplify AI

Recognising AI’s transformative potential, HP is taking proactive steps to support its channel partners in harnessing this technology. Launched on 1 November 2024, HP Amplify AI is a programme that aims to ensure its channel partners are in a strong position to sell AI-enabled devices and solutions to their customers. The persona-based programme includes HP Amplify AI HUB, a centralised resource for AI training, certification, and tools, offering role-based opportunities to help partners sell AI devices and solutions more effectively.

This builds on the success of its HP Future Ready AI MasterClass AI training and certification programme, launched in May 2024. This offers tailored role-based online training for sales representatives, account managers, and technical consultants. HP reports that more than 12,000 users have enrolled in the AI MasterClass since its launch.

By providing comprehensive training and resources, HP Amplify AI will enable partners to understand AI fundamentals and identify and evaluate potential AI use cases within their businesses and customer offerings. The programme will also help partners market AI effectively, communicate the value of AI solutions to customers, and position themselves as AI experts.

Key features of HP Amplify AI include:

• HP Amplify AI HUB. This provides AI training courses and certification options. Eligible partners can benefit from coaching and practical use cases that illustrate the benefits and improved business outcomes of deploying AI PCs.
• Certification opportunities. This includes recognition for HP AI proficiency and AI-powered sales tools to track their progress.

HP also announced an expansion to the HP Business Partner Program globally by taking on a larger community of non-HP Amplify partners and boosting SMB growth via distributors. HP is also rolling out an AI Chatbot to answer queries and guide partners through the HP Partner Portal, making it easier to find information quickly. In addition, HP is improving collaboration with faster pricing turnaround times using the AI-powered Configured Price Quote (CPQ) platform, available in 108 countries.

Quocirca opinion

HP’s expansion of its Amplify partner programme to include a dedicated AI initiative is a strategic move towards industry leadership. By offering a comprehensive suite of AI training resources tailored to different partner needs, HP is enabling its diverse channel ecosystem to navigate the complexities of AI.

To ensure the programme’s effectiveness, HP should clearly define its partner personas and tailor training content and delivery methods to meet each group’s unique needs. It should also prioritise flexibility and modularity in its training offerings to accommodate partners at various levels of AI expertise.

Additionally, HP should maintain transparency in its AI messaging to avoid AI washing. This means addressing the potential pitfalls of AI, such as data quality issues, bias, and security risks. By providing practical guidance and realistic expectations, the company can help partners build trust with their customers and drive successful AI implementations.

The programme requires significant time and effort from channel partners to reap its full benefits. Investigating this investment into any plans to leverage Amplify AI is crucial. However, failing to capitalise on this opportunity could leave partners at a disadvantage as others embrace AI and gain a competitive edge.

By investing in AI training and education, channel members can position themselves as trusted advisors and partners to support their customers’ AI journey and capitalise on the growing demand for AI-powered devices. This will drive sales, strengthen customer relationships, and foster long-term business growth.

With its commitment to AI innovation and extensive channel ecosystem, HP is well-positioned to support partners on their AI journey and provide the necessary tools, resources, and training to help them succeed in the AI era.

Find out more about Quocirca’s expert analysis on the AI market.