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Chantry Networks launches channel proogram to enable partners to more rapidly deploy wireless solutions
BOSTON - October 27, 2003 - Chantry Networks, the provider of the world's first routed wireless LAN infrastructure solution, has officially launched its channel program and appointed James Colantropo its new director of channel sales.
"The launch of BeaconWorks™ was well-received in the industry, by analysts, the trade press community, customers and investors and now, by partners," said Norman B. Meisner, vice president, worldwide sales, Chantry Networks. "We are aggressively recruiting vertical market and regional partners with WLAN expertise to sell and support the unique Chantry WLAN solution. The addition of Jim to Chantry's management team will significantly enhance our partner relationships - and better serve their customers."
Chantry's flagship product, BeaconWorks, enables VARs, resellers and systems integrators to deploy wireless solutions without disrupting their customers' existing networks or security implementation. BeaconWorks' unique architecture does not require a "rip and replace" strategy, and eliminates the need to put a wireless switch in every wiring closet - making it easier and faster for partners to deploy and more cost-effective and manageable for customers.
"Our customers want to deploy a wireless LAN solution with minimum disruption to their existing networks," said Dennis Dyer, president of VueQuest Technologies. "Chantry's BeaconWorks was designed with the needs of large, multi-location enterprises in mind and is the only WLAN solution on the market today that provides for fast and easy integration with existing network infrastructures. Chantry's approach differs from other architectures in four key areas: scalability, availability, security and virtualization. Like Chantry, we believe these elements define the success of enterprise-class WLAN systems."
Initial Partners Concentrate on Hot Wireless Opportunities
The WLAN market is a strong growth market -- In-Stat/MDR projects 2005 enterprise WLAN revenues of $2.8 billion. Chantry has seen continuing momentum in a number of markets, including education, hospitality, healthcare and finance. For example, in order to lure top students, competitive universities and colleges are turning to wireless technologies to create mobile campuses, which allow for greater technological sophistication for today's Internet-savvy user.
Chantry's BeaconWorks is particularly well suited to serving large scale WLAN implementations as a result of its unlimited scalability to reach a large number of users in many buildings across a campus, hospital complex or convention center, and its virtualization capabilities, which enable enterprises to provide separate virtual wireless networks for different departments, and visitors, with only one physical wireless network.
Colantropo to lead channel initiatives
Colantropo has twenty years of experience working for global providers of LAN technology and other communications solutions. His background includes sales and marketing, contract negotiation, sales training, and product management. He will be responsible for developing and identifying new sales opportunities as well as generating leads for the expansion of channel business.
"Chantry recognizes that the channel is an extension of its sales force," said Colantropo. "We've implemented a comprehensive and competitive program designed to strategically support our partners and help them succeed." The Chantry Channel Partner Program includes sales and technical training, market development funds, a "Try and Buy" program, demo program, channel help desk, secure partner Web site, joint marketing and public relations activities, qualified lead sharing and technical support.
Colantropo's most recent work experience includes consulting on Gartner services allowing him to establish strategic relationships with VARs and total solution providers and distributors. His extensive sales background stems from employment with Marconi Communications, formerly FORE Systems. Colantropo began his career working for Digital Equipment Corporation as a senior product manager, and then moved on to Standard Microsystems Corporation, where he built the channel program that earned an award for "Best Overall Channel Program" from VARbusiness magazine.
About Chantry Networks
Chantry Networks is the creator of BeaconWorks, the world's first large-scale routed wireless LAN (WLAN) solution and a Best of Show Finalist at NetWorld+Interop 2003. Offering unprecedented scalability and availability, coupled with unique network virtualization features, BeaconWorks overcomes the obstacles inherent in traditional WLAN systems to provide enterprises and service providers with the first economical and practical solution for building seamless and pervasive wireless networks. Founded in April of 2002, Chantry Networks has offices in Boston and Toronto, and is backed by top-tier investors including Flagship Ventures, Primaxis Technology Ventures, Ventures West and Venture Coaches.
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