White papers are either too dull or too much of an ad. Websites are often too much work to sort through with what you don’t want to know. Podcasts have much greater utility because of mobility such as in your car, while working out, or just sitting down somewhere with earplugs. The problem is, where do you find something worth listening to? Read more…

I’ve seen this quoted twice now and wanted to comment on how deceiving this really is. Both AnchorPoint and Gartner have thrown this number around in webinars and implied most companies can realize this by renegotiating their contracts – some even go so far as to say you can renegotiate anytime. Of course you can, but getting a good deal; not so much. A reasonable disclaimer would be these are pretty much best case scenarios and your results may vary – really vary.

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How do you know when it is time for a new contract, or to contemplate moving your services to someone else?  Don’t rely on a rough date.  Know your contract.

Many contracts have automatic renewals or specific procedures that must be followed to prevent auto renewal.  Some take it for granted that dates negotiated on their last RFP made it into the contract, this is often not so.  Always check your contracts and know the procedures, dates, and revenue commitments agreed upon.

Some jump the gun and turn the incumbent provider into an enemy before knowing the particulars of how to discontinue their agreement.  It is also important to consider the time and resources necessary to move to another provider.  Know your dates and plan in advance.  Staying one step ahead of your providers will help you to negotiate the best deals.

Think I was a bit dramatic or hasty about my wireless predictions? Of course Verizon and AT&T are lowering wireless costs - except that's voice minutes, not data. Check out this article on Yahoo Finance by David Goldman from Financially Fit: Your Cell Phone Company's Dirty Little Secret.  Here's an excerpt:

Data Overload Vs. Revenue

It’s not just about increasing revenue, say analysts. Carriers are banking on the consumer-friendly aspect: phones are more fun and useful with the Internet.

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Anyone who reads this report from Aberdeen is no doubt trying to glean what works best.  The temptation is to look at what has worked for the Best-in-Class companies and just do that.  But as Bob pointed out in one of his previous posts, good advice is good advice.  As I examined the information closely, it actually occurred to me that the Best-in-Class respondents were probably not best at all – but that is a post for another day.  Let’s take a look at some of the strategies and examine the pros and cons: Read more…