ADAPTIVE FLASH CHALLENGE FOR PARTNERS: FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
Topics: The Nimble Storage Adaptive Flash Challenge Program
Adaptive Flash Challenge Introduction
What is the Adaptive Flash Challenge?
This is a public challenge issued to new prospects that are evaluating all-flash solutions. The
goal is to have them consider a Nimble solution, and if eligible, receive a gift package for trying
Nimble. Nimble Storage customers are not eligible to participate in this program.
What is the objective of this Challenge?
The Challenge is designed to build awareness in the market for Nimble and allow sales teams
entry into all-flash sales opportunities that were previously out of reach due to the perception
that Nimble can’t compete with all-flash solutions. It allows Nimble to be considered for
opportunities we are missing out on today for today because the prospect is convinced they
need an all-flash solution and doesn’t realize Nimble’s Adaptive Flash Platform does everything
AFA’s do, and a lot more.
Who is eligible to participate in the Partner Sales Incentive for the All Flash Challenge?
All Nimble Storage Authorized Resellers in good standing, are eligible to participate, unless
prohibited by local governmental rules or company policies. There are terms and conditions to
meet, which can be found in the Adaptive Flash Challenge program guide here.
How does the prospect verify that they are evaluating an all-flash solution and a Nimble
solution?
In order for the prospect to be approved (and receive their gift package), the prospect must
agree to a proof-of-concept (POC) trial of any CS500 or CS700 series array and meet the
guidelines outlined on the Customer Program Guide.
How long will a POC trial run?
Upon approval of the opportunity by the Nimble Storage Sales team, a POC may run between 24 weeks, depending on the workloads tested, and the POC criteria agreed between Nimble
Storage and the customer.
What if my company does not have the resources to manage the POC?
You are still fully eligible. The Nimble Storage Sales Team will gladly manage the POC with you
or on your behalf and you will receive the $100 deal registration incentive on a new, qualifying
POC. We appreciate the opportunity to work with your Sales Engineers, but it’s not required.
Is the Challenge applicable to any all-flash solution? Is it workload or application dependent?
Yes, prospects evaluating any all-flash solution can be eligible. It is not limited by application or
workload types. Each opportunity will be evaluated by the local Nimble Storage Sales team to
determine the qualification eligibility for the Flash Challenge.
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Are existing Nimble Storage customers eligible for the Flash Challenge?
No. The objective of this Challenge is to generate awareness of Nimble in accounts that we have
not been able to penetrate to date, due to lack of an all-flash solution.
The prospect is already evaluating an all-flash solution, can we jump in with the Adaptive
Flash Challenge?
Yes, this program is specifically designed to enable Nimble to be evaluated along with all-flash
offerings. Please see the terms and conditions that must be met.
What do Nimble Storage Partners receive as incentives to qualify opportunities for the All
Flash Challenge?
Partner Account Executives are eligible to earn a $100 e-Visa gift card if they find a new, channel
initiated, qualified opportunity and register the opportunity in the Nimble Storage deal
registration portal, including the text “Adaptive Flash Challenge Opportunity” in Notes section of
Deal Registration Form. The customer must be approved for the POC to earn the incentive.
Partner Sales Engineers are eligible to earn a $500 e-Visa gift card if they install the Nimble gear,
manage the POC under the direction of the Nimble Storage Sales Engineer and close the deal
during the program period.
Where is the fine print?
All of the terms and conditions of the Flash Challenge can be found in the Partner Program
Guide here.
The program requires a POC as validation of the prospect considering a Nimble and all-flash
solution. What if I’m in a deal where a POC is not needed or desired?
Program does not apply.
What is included in the prospect gift package? Who will it be sent to?
The gift package includes the following items:
 Apple Watch Sport
 Nimble coffee mug and t-shirt with Adaptive Flash Challenge theme.
The package will be sent directly to the prospect contact indicated in the information provided
to the Flash Challenge Core team. Note: Apple Watch will be sent separately at completion of
POC, or when reference agreement is received.
Other Details and Guidance
Does the prospect have to buy a Nimble solution in order to get the gift package?
No, but they must complete all program requirements.
Does the prospect have to buy a Nimble solution in order for the Partner AE to earn the $100
registration incentive?
No, but the customer must complete all POC program requirements.
Does the prospect have to buy a Nimble solution in order for the Partner SE to earn the $500
POC management and closing incentive?
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Yes. The Partner SE must install, manage the POC under the direction of the Nimble Storage SE
and according to the POC guidelines, and close the deal to receive the incentive.
How long will the flash challenge run?
The plan is to run the Flash Challenge at least through FY Q1 (April 30, 2015).
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