Founded and managed by Integrated mar.com, the ChannelLine Advisory Council is a high-level, not-for-profit industry thought leadership group comprised of 750 leading IT channel people. This channel advocacy group is actively exploring threats and opportunities that are impacting the channel, facilitating open communication throughout the industry, and implementing solutions designed to help ensure the long-term viability of the IT Channel. Together we will shape the future of the IT Channel and help make the Channel more effective for you. In 2007, the Council's primary activities will include: Research on Lead Generation and Rewards Programs Education Development of a Channel Affinity Program Providing channel members with free editorial-based vehicles. Task Forces: Partner Management, including establishing guidelines for best practices Manuals: How To Successfully Do IT Business In Canada How To Successfully Do IT Business In The United States Channel Business Education & Certification/Seal, including focus areas on selling and servicing key solution areas: storage, security, enterprise, mid market, SMB, system builder, etc. End-User Channel Advocacy, including redefining and positioning the role of the Channel and creating a well publicized VAR Partner Locator. For more information or to find out how you can join the Council, please contact Sharon Ashfield at sashfield@integratedmar.com.