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Ability Software International has unveiled its new range of software aimed specifically at the small business market, and has said that independent computer retailers are crucial to the range’s success.
Speaking to PC Retail about the launch, ASI’s group sales and development director David Hennell said: "The channel is incredibly important for us. More often than not, the first place someone looking at setting up a new business will go for advice is his or her local computer retailer. We need to get them on side to help us sell the range at the earliest chance."
Indeed, the entire range has been designed around the whole length of time from conception to when it is on the verge of becoming a large business. "The whole idea of the range is to provide a solution to every need of a new, small or even medium sized business at a reasonable price," added Hennell.
"If you look at the different titles available in the range, they really are designed to grow with a business. One of the best examples of that is Ability Business, which is ideal for the pre-planning of a business, although that’s not to say it wouldn’t be useful for a firm looking to approach the bank for funding."
But with ASI about to compete with such established names as Microsoft, Sage and Adobe, is it really realistic to expect it compete? Hennell thinks so. "We’ve designed it from the ground up to be compatible, and familiar, for current users of Microsoft Office.
"What we’re saying is that you could spend a couple of hundred pounds buying Microsoft Office et al and have hundreds of features you’ll never use. Or you could buy Ability Office Business and get all the features you do use, as well as some that we hear people asking for all the time but never getting."
And to encourage retailers to help support the launch of the new range, ASI is running a limited offer. Retailers signing up to the ASI Reseller program will receive a starter pack, including £500 worth of stock, as well as a free display unit, POS and support for just £120.
