Cisco is making three key changes to its programs: simplification, building capabilities, and increasing the partner value exchange

At Partner Summit 2017, Cisco is evolving its channel programs to help partners capture new opportunities, refine software and services skills sets, and differentiate themselves in the market.

As part of this evolution, Cisco is making three key changes to its programs: simplification, building capabilities, and increasing the partner value exchange, in order to help partners adapt to the fast moving market trends and customer needs while making it easier to work with Cisco.

"The power of Cisco's partner ecosystem is grounded in our close working relationship with our partners. To keep pace with the changing technology landscape, Cisco needs to be in lockstep with our partners if they are to operate effectively," said Marc Surplus, VP of Strategy, Planning and Programs, Cisco Global Partner Organization.

"The evolution of our partner programs is a reflection of our continued commitment to improving the overall partner experience, strengthening our joint go-to-market initiatives, and ultimately ensuring our partners succeed in owning the digital transformation space."

Cisco's new program updates will fall in three core areas: building and recognizing capabilities, refreshing to digital, and moving to lifecycle and recurring revenue. The changes to the programs are designed to help Cisco and its partners more effectively shift business to software and recurring revenue and reward partners who drive growth and profitability.