To successfully execute your Customer Experience strategies, good technology vendor relationships are just as important as good technology. Even with the most cutting-edge solution, a strained relationship with the vendor can hinder progress. Vendors act as an extension of your team, responsible for adding functionality and addressing concerns. However, conflicts can arise, making vendor management a crucial aspect of IT leadership.
To improve your relationship with your cloud vendor and enhance service, consider implementing these four steps:
- Offer yourself up as a reference and marketing resource. Participating in reference calls and marketing initiatives can generate goodwill and motivate vendors to provide excellent service.
- Beta test new products and participate in product roadmap programs. Assisting vendors in testing out new features demonstrates confidence in your CX solution and encourages vendors to prioritize your needs.
- Join the vendor’s customer advisory board to provide feedback and advocate for specific features. This amplifies your voice while giving vendors valuable information about their product.
- Get active in QBRs by sending an agenda beforehand and inviting stakeholders and users. This makes the meeting more valuable for everyone involved.
Remember, a good relationship with your vendor can be the key to success in CX strategies.