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LivePerson2.85    0.18
Selectica1.16    0.07
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Interactive11.01    0.49
SupportSoft3.62    0.14
Vignette12.26    0.45
ClickSoftware2.46    0.07
Salesforce69.5    1.88
Oracle23.37    0.62
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As of 4:00 p.m. on 8/7/08

 
 


 
"Our Take"

(Past Editions by: Date, Title, Topic)

 
About "Our Take" 
"Our Take" is a collection of daily vignettes covering a wide range of CRM topics. It's an attempt to add our own spin to the world of CRM. We will use the column to share our perspectives, opinions, epiphanies, web nuggets, or quite frankly anything that moves us. Get ready to expect the unexpected. And, don't be shy about sharing your thoughts.
 
 
9/12/06 - Reference Incentives
Yesterday, I mentioned that references often provide their services to the benefit of the vendor and prospective buyer. In short, there is nothing in it for the reference.
 
That is typically the case and that is what you want in a reference. However, you should be aware that some vendors have reference programs chalked full of neat incentives. These incentives might be simple thank-you gifts, more valuable perks like vacations, or even discounts on maintenance agreements or future purchases.
 
Although well intentioned, incentives could have a consequence that doesn't work in your favor. Might the incentives condition a response more favorable to the vendor? Is the customer willing to say nicer things or omit harsh statements in anticipation of those incentives? You might want to add a question about what incentives a reference has to be a reference. Just so you know.
 
Gary Lemke, Publisher
(Share your thoughts)
 

 
 

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