A deactivated link is a URL that no longer directs users to a webpage. When you deactivate partner links, any clicks on those links will lead users to a 404 error page instead of the website. This action is typically taken to prevent referrals or leads from specific partners.

Deactivating links is particularly useful if you suspect fraudulent activities from a partner, such as sending bot-generated leads. Managing deactivated links is essential for the process of discontinuing partnerships or ensuring compliance with a program's integrity standards.

By deactivating links, companies maintain control over the quality of traffic and referrals coming into the site, safeguarding the business from potential misuse or abuse of partnership privileges. Moreover, deactivating links provides a structured approach to maintaining a clean and efficient partner ecosystem. It allows businesses to quickly respond to partnership issues without disrupting overall operations.

Strategically managing deactivated links also supports SEO efforts by preventing irrelevant or harmful traffic from impacting search engine rankings. This proactive approach reinforces the credibility and reliability of the website, enhancing user trust and overall brand reputation.

Deal registration is a formal process common in reseller programs that ensures when a partner brings forward a new potential customer to a vendor they have the exclusive rights to pursue the sale, close the deal and earn additional partner rewards. It is a way to ensure other partners (or even the vendor themselves) do not compete with other partners by pursing already active leads.

Deal registration is a benefit to both the vendor and partner. For the vendor, it serves to incentivize their program partners to bring in new business leads and avoid conflict between channel partners and internal sales teams. For the partner, it protects their time investment as they pursue a potential customer.

Deal registration programs vary from vendor to vendor. Some deal registration programs may require that the partner has already met with a potential client or set up a meeting between the client and vendor.

A deal is a mutually beneficial business transaction between two entities for the purchase or subscription of software services. In the context of B2B SaaS, a deal is an agreement between a software provider and a business client for a service on a subscription basis.

This agreement encompasses the terms of service, pricing structures and any tailored features or customizations that meet the client's specific needs. B2B SaaS deals are often complex, involving multiple stakeholders, negotiations and a deep understanding of the client's business challenges.

This means that sales cycles are also quite lengthy and can typically last weeks or months. Successful deals require B2B SaaS providers to demonstrate the value proposition of their software, address any concerns or objections and tailor their offerings to align with the client's unique requirements.

A well-structured deal can lead to higher customer satisfaction, better retention rates and positive word-of-mouth recommendations, contributing to the long-term success of the software as well as the relationship.

A direct channel is a sales channel through which goods and services are sold by the manufacturer directly to an end user. These traditional channels don't involve partners of any sort. In direct sales, the end user can purchase the product through online marketplaces, mail order, or face-to-face sales, as long as there is no intermediary distributor or salesforce other than the original manufacturer.

Direct channel gives the manufacturer more control over the sales process of their product and often comes with lower overhead costs. That said, direct channel doesn't have the reach and revenue potential that channel sales can offer. Note that many software companies utilize both direct and channel sales in their overall sales strategy to take advantage of the benefits of both.

In SaaS, distribution refers to the channels through which a product is sold to a customer. It's the entire process of delivering a cloud-based software to end-users, whether directly from a company or through a network of intermediaries and encompasses all the different routes a product can take to reach its destination.

Distribution can be done through direct selling or selling through intermediaries, which are often referred to as distributors.

Direct distribution is when the vendor sells the software directly to customers through a website, sales team, or other owned channel.

Indirect distribution involves partnering with third-party distributors or resellers who act as middlemen, taking the product to market and reaching customers they might not be able to access on their own. While this can expand reach, it also means sharing revenue and giving up control over the whole customer experience.

Both direct and indirect distribution can be used as part of an overall distribution strategy.

Distribution partnerships are strategic alliances formed between companies, typically technology or SaaS providers and distributors who specialize in delivering products or services to end customers.

These partnerships accelerate growth by providing companies access to new customer markets. Distribution partnerships essentially provide an outsourced sales team to your channel ecosystem.

There are two types of distribution partnerships, direct and indirect:

• Direct distribution: the partner acts as an extension of the company's sales team, selling directly to end customers.
• Indirect distribution: the partner acts as a middleman, selling the software to resellers who then market and sell it to end users.

Both models offer unique benefits. Direct distribution gives the company more control over the sales process and customer relationships, while indirect distribution provides access to a wider network of potential customers and specialized sales expertise.

The key to a successful distribution partnership is open communication, comprehensive onboarding and well-structured, transparent payment models. It's important to note that distribution partners are not merely sales channels. They play a significant role in customer retention and overall business growth by providing valuable market insights and customer feedback.

Related: What you need to know to drive distribution revenue.

In a partner ecosystem, a distributor or (distributor partner) is a business that serves as an intermediary between vendors and resellers in a channel partnership. These sellers can include value-added resellers and system integrators. Distributors are in charge of procurement and payment between vendors and resellers.

Distributor partners are especially important for vendors who need support running their channel program, whether because they're new to the industry or because they have a very high volume of sales to manage. Aside from payment and procurement, distributors can also take on further roles in educating resellers on products, providing presale training or demos, or assisting with contract negotiations and marketing.