With the acceleration of digital transformation, the entire technology ecosystem stands to benefit immensely

Since 2009, Metrobit Networks has provided excellent support and complete IT Solutions for Enterprises. Being an authorized dealer of Lenovo, they also deal in Servers, Network Security Solutions, Audio Visual Solutions. The organization has gained fame as a complete IT products and service solution provider which enables clients to grow their business and increase profitability. With a Customer Centric Approach, Metrobit believes in excellent after sales services. In a chat with VARINDIA, ALPESH GEVARIYA- DIRECTOR, METROBIT NETWORKS, PVT LTD. describes the best practices of the organization, challenges faced during the unprecedented time, opportunities for the SMB business and future products etc

Brief about the company.

MetroBit Networks was started in 2009 as System Integrators & trainee institutes for networking. In the initial years as System Integrators, we provided hands-on training to students on network operations and fiber communications. Gradually we started taking up more projects and received multiple requirements from dealers to customize services as per their client’s requirements. This is how we formed a solid base of channel partners and customers. To expand this base further, we launched Lenovo Servers and this augmented our business. We eventually ventured into channel distribution in 2015. In 2017, after the GST quarter, we ventured into procuring Lenovo SMB products and commenced full scale operations of channel distribution. Initially about 1.5 years ago we did not have a Service Center and to streamline the process we built a new service center solely dedicated to repairing or servicing the products.

What is the driving force of Metrobit Networks? Please share some of the organization's best practices?

The customer is the foundation of any business hence, we at Metrobit, take customer service seriously. Our goal is to offer the right set of services and solutions therefore, we guide and direct our customers to seek timely resolutions from the partners. This way we ensure that our customers are satisfied with our guidance. Additionally, the Lenovo SMB Team has supported us immensely and have been a driving force behind our success. One of the best practices we have is that our partners can visit our facility and can directly dispatch the products. This is time saving and beneficial for the business.

How have the organization tackled the challenges posed by the pandemic?

When the pandemic first struck, we started preparing ourselves for any potential issues with respect to channel distribution. Luckily, we have not had any major impact on our business so far. Additionally, we advised all our respective partners to limit the stocks during such times to maintain a flawless cycle. Our partners appreciated our timely advice. This strategy has worked in our favor. We never had to make any alterations to our credit policies with our loyal partners.

How equipped is Metrobit Networks in addressing the current WFH challenges?

During the pandemic when most of the workforce moved to working from home, lot of our customers faced technical issues. To address this, we decided to deploy about 3-4 engineers who worked remotely to address and resolve customer’s grievances. This is how our company is aligning to the changing technological landscape.

We have seen professionals opting for Lenovo’s Thinkpad and Thinkbook series and we have made good sales with products that have 1-4 years warranty and a few desktops with 5 years warranty during the pandemic.

What opportunities can be foreseen for the SMB business?

We majorly target the SMBs. I believe it is better to work with a wider portfolio to capture the market and work efficiently in each segment. With the acceleration of digital transformation in India, I think the entire technology ecosystem stands to benefit immensely. Digitization has blurred the geographical boundaries for SMBs. With a boost in digital infrastructure, I believe SMBs could augment businesses across a wider margin and achieve greater growth in the years to come.

Please share your views on the ongoing partnership with any of the partners and mention the products that have the potential to be a bestseller?

Prior to the GST implementation, we were unsure of meeting our targets but due to Lenovo’s continued support we have been faring well. We hope to work in tandem with them regarding geographical expansion with their guidance. In my opinion, the Thinkpad series is the most popular and always in demand. The Thinkbook series is also gaining popularity and has been doing quite well in the market. We work across all portfolios; hence, I feel most of their products are doing well.