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Becoming a Google Workspace Reseller with Ingram Micro: A Comprehensive Guide

Becoming a Google Workspace Reseller with Ingram Micro: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

As a long-time reseller of Google Workspace, navigating the recent changes implemented by Google has been a daunting task. The shift from direct sales via the Partner Sales Console to an indirect model through distributors like Ingram Micro has introduced new complexities. This guide aims to provide a thorough, step-by-step process for regaining the ability to sell Google Workspace, focusing on the critical steps of connecting your Partner Advantage account to Ingram Micro and managing customer transfers.

Background

Google’s recent changes require small business resellers to operate indirectly through distributors like Ingram Micro, eliminating direct access to the Partner Sales Console. Resellers must now obtain “Sell” authorization via the Partner Advantage portal and manage their transactions through Ingram Micro’s Xvantage platform. This transition has caused significant confusion and frustration, as highlighted by numerous resellers sharing their challenges online.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Initial Setup

  1. Create or Access a Google Workspace for Your Company

    • Sign up for a Google Workspace or Cloud Identity for your company.
    • Confirm access to admin.google.com for your company’s existing Google Workspace.

  2. Convert Unmanaged Users to Managed Users

    • Navigate to https://admin.google.com/ac/unmanaged to convert any unmanaged users to managed users.

2. Registering with Partner Advantage

  1. Register for Partner Advantage Portal Access

    • Visit https://www.partneradvantage.goog/GCPPRM/s/partnerselfregistration?language=en_US and complete the registration process.

  2. Apply for “Sell” Authorization

    • From your Partner Advantage portal, apply for “Sell” authorization. Ensure your company meets all requirements.

  3. Obtain Google Workspace Certifications

    • Have at least four team members obtain different Google Workspace certifications. Each certification must be unique to each individual as Google only counts one certification per person.

3. Registering with Ingram Micro

  1. Register as a Vendor with Ingram Micro

    • Sign up at https://www.ingrammicro.com/en-us/sign-up/sign-up.

  2. Request a Channel Partner Link

    • Open a ticket with Ingram Micro to request a Channel Partner Link. They may escalate to their Google-specific sales team, requiring your domain and Cloud Identity from your Partner Advantage portal (accessible by clicking your profile picture in the top-right, then “My Account”).

  3. Complete the Channel Partner Link Process

    • Ingram Micro will provide a link similar to https://channelservices.cloud.google.com/public/invites/accounts/{their-cloud-identity}/channelPartnerLinks/{your-cloud-identity}. Click the link and follow the instructions.

4. Placing an Order for an End Customer

  1. Check Your “Sell” Authorization Status

    • Verify in the Partner Advantage portal that your “Sell” authorization is active.

  2. Placing an Order

  • If you need to purchase a commitment (annual or monthly) for an end customer, Ingram Micro must “pull in” the customer first. Contact Ingram Micro support to handle this process.
  • For flexible subscriptions, you can place the order yourself via the Xvantage portal:
Steps for Placing a Flexible Order

  1. Search for “Google Workspace Business Starter usage”

    • In the Xvantage portal, search for the required subscription.

  2. Select Subscription Options

    • Click “Subscriptions” at the top, find the desired subscription, and click “Select Options”.

  3. Add to Cart and Checkout

    • Add the subscription to your cart, then proceed to checkout.

  4. Add End Customer Information

    • Click “Add end customer” on the Cart page and fill in the necessary details.

  5. Complete Checkout

    • Confirm the order details and complete the checkout process. Note that the total will be $0 initially as this is a flexible plan.

  6. Add Licenses Post Order

    • After placing the order, add the necessary licenses once the order is processed.

5. Meeting Notes and Email Chain with Ingram Micro Support

During the transition, I worked closely with Stephanie Ross at Ingram Micro, who provided invaluable assistance. Below are the key notes and steps from our interaction:

  1. Generate a Transfer Token

    • Have the end customer visit google.admin.com/TransferToken and generate a transfer code using the provided Public ID.

  2. Place a Transfer Order

    • Use the generated transfer code to place the order in Xvantage as a transfer order.

  3. Confirm and Complete Order

    • Ensure all details, such as domain email and contact information, are correct. Verify payment information and finalize the order.

  4. Monitor Order Status

    • Check the order status in the Xvantage portal and wait for the “Order Acknowledgement Email”.

Conclusion

Transitioning to the new reseller model with Google Workspace through Ingram Micro can be challenging, but with detailed instructions and support, the process becomes manageable. By following the steps outlined above and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully navigate this transition and continue to serve your customers effectively. For any additional support, do not hesitate to reach out to your Ingram Micro contacts or consult the Partner Advantage resources.