Avaya / Nortel Policy Verification & Recommendation for new Vendor

[robl3000]

In the past, I partnered with a vendor for provide drop shipping of equipment, KRS *.lic generation, and provide software updates for my SOHO BCM50. I performed all of the labor, installation, programming, etc.

I inquired about the BCM50 Rls 5 Software Upgrade and my vendor informs me that after the Avaya / Nortel deal, Avaya "mandates purchase of a PASS - Support Contract".

Additionally, the vendor now seems to insist that I have one of their engineers perform the labor to install any updates / upgrades. The vendor is definitely "less friendly" than before the Avaya deal.

Does Avaya really have these requirements? I don't mind paying for licensing or equipment, but I actually enjoy doing the work and learning the ins & outs for the platform.

Does anyone have a recommended reputable vendor that will work with a "hobbyist" on a small system? Or am I out of luck due to Avaya's business practices?

Thanks!

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[Khosher]

Well it's tough to say. Avaya are more admin heavy and a pain in the ass sometimes, but from what you are saying I would imagine it is your vendor trying to maximise what they can get out of you.

 

[leftbase2009]

I too am in the same situation and would welcome some help from time to time.

 

[robl3000]

Khosher:

I suspect you are right, that the vendor is trying to manipulate the situation and maximize the charges. I know in most business, extended support / warranty contracts have the highest markup / profit. I know every time I buy *anything* retail, I am always asked to buy an extended warranty (For $29.99USD, we'll give you a 3 yr replacement warranty on that brand new pencil!).

Honestly, its not like I don't spend money with this vendor anyway. I have purchased the BCM50, VoIP Trunks, 6 IP phones, IP Phone keycodes, etc. I have even paid their normal "hourly rate" to have one of their techs to download updates/patches and send them to me. I've been a good customer, all invoices were paid within 3 business days with no complaints, until now.

I just don't like feeling I'm being taken advantage of.

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[Khosher]

It is not an Nortel/Avaya requirement to have a support contract for upgrading sytstems. You only require them to access Nortel/Avaya support. Your vendor may be offerring you good support and a quality service, but if all you want is the keycodes and DIY, you might as well shop around.

Although there has beenn some changes since the Avaya aquisition, what you are refering to, is not Avaya realted in my view and purely the vendor trying to maximise revenues.