WatchGuard Unveils Tool To Manage Subscriptions

The software, titled Customer Renewal Tool, was created specifically to help solution providers manage service subscriptions for the Seattle-based vendor's WatchGuard Firebox X integrated security appliances, said Christine Pomeroy, director of channel marketing and marketing communications. Solution providers can use the tool to make sure subscriptions don't expire and even to upsell additional offerings.

"Not only can they look at when a service is to end, but they can see what services a customer has and quote them on new services as well," she said this week at the RSA Conference in San Francisco. "It's both a money-saver and a money-maker."

The new tool, which replaces replaces WatchGuard's Subscription Manager, can manage an array of services, including gateway antivirus protection for e-mail, spyware blockers and anti-spam filtering. The solution also tracks subscriptions to WatchGuard's LiveSecurity service, which includes software updates, technical support, security broadcasts and self-help resources.

Resellers can access the tool through a secure Web site. They then enter or import historical data and update accounts with new sales and customers as contracts are signed. The tool automatically e-mails solution providers in advance of expiration dates, enabling partners to stay on top of lapses in service subscriptions.

The Customer Renewal Tool also allows channel partners to set one end date to manage all subscriptions for each customer, Pomeroy said. The tool is free with participation in the WatchGuard channel program.