Re: It simply works better...

"So, is there any consensus as to what the future holds for VARS, or what they must do to survive? The simple answer is, of course, "make money". But how? "

VALUE ADDED RESELLER - As technology becomes better and more accessible, it really becomes harder to Add Value. Anyone can buy a Mac and FCS and be up and running in a day. You no longer need help with that.

Forums like this and others take the next logical step and teach folks how to actually "do" it.

But I've been "doing" it for 20+ years and the experience of working with clients has to be learned in "real time" - there is no substitute.

Back to the question - VARS, or what they must do to survive? Find another way to add value. Integration is no longer an option. Options include training and - um... training.

Had ProMax diversified into more training they may have survived. Who knows. We all know that integration is no longer a "big margin" value.

It's not the gas or the economy people - it's the long tail of eCommerce and the availability or great info (this site being one source).

Sheesh - Bjork's newest video was created in 3D by kids who "learned how to do it on the internet".

It is sad to see a friend choose to close their business no matter what the reasons.

Perry