Maverick to provide training in Cisco networking for audiovisual resellers

Maverick is giving specialist audiovisual resellers the opportunity to attend a two-day Cisco SMB University course that will enable them to attain the skills needed to provide network connectivity for digital signage and other audiovisual solutions, completely free of charge.

The course, which is scheduled to take place at Cisco’s premises west of London on the 23rd and 24th of July – with one day for account managers and one day for technical staff, would normally cost resellers £795 per person with an additional £80 for the final exam. Those that pass will qualify as Cisco accredited partners and be given access to enhanced product discounts and a number of other benefits.

Director of Maverick, Jon Sidwick says networking skills are becoming much more important to audiovisual resellers. “We’re seeing more convergence between audiovisual and other IT systems and it is becoming increasingly important for resellers that specialise in AV to at least have an understanding of networking and ideally, the ability to offer key elements of network solutions. Resellers that can offer skills in both fields are going to be in demand.”

In particular, Sidwick notes, there is a need for resellers to be able to set up and connect specialist display devices to networks, as more businesses and public sector organisations look to deploy network-controlled digital signage solutions. As well as learning about Cisco’s core networking and its security and unified communications offerings, resellers that attend the SMB University course will also be given a full demonstration of the vendor’s new digital signage solution.

“This is a great opportunity for audiovisual resellers to start learning about Cisco solutions and extend their potential to new areas of business”, he comments. “We are seeing very strong levels of interest in digital signage and there is a clear need here for resellers that can offer a complete service. As well as having the ability to set up and install the display, they need to show that they have proven capabilities in networking and the backing of trusted vendors, and they don’t come much bigger or more trusted than Cisco.”

If take-up for the course is good, Maverick plans to offer additional Cisco SMB University courses throughout the year, Sidwick adds. It may also schedule courses to help resellers with data and networking skills to develop their knowledge and ability to sell audiovisual solutions.

Resellers who are interested in attending should emailing Sales@maverick.co.uk as soon as possible.