It’s one small step for the Dell PartnerDirect Program, and a strategic move for K&M Systems Integration (KMSI). Indeed, KMSI is the latest IT support firm to join the PartnerDirect channel program. And there are signs that more MSPs are starting to give Dell a look for a range of storage-related solutions.

KMSI is a Calgary-based IT support firm that helps local businesses stretch their budgets and focus on revenue-generating tasks. The company offers a suite of IT solutions to help SMBs host and deploy e-business, security, disaster recovery and business continuity for mission-critical applications. KMSI clients also have access to IT consulting services, Sage ERP Accpac technical support, cloud computing services and computer support.

KMSI even has an oil and gas IT consulting department to offer managed IT services and compute support to Calgary’s oil and gas community. KMSI will help Dell sell its SMB solutions in the Calgary region where Dell already has nine other PatnerDirect Preferred and Premiere members. KMSI will be able to offer its clients Dell’s networking, mobile solutions, security, server and storage solutions for SMBs.

Dell has its own family of managed services and SaaS tools for partners. But MSPmentor is keeping a particularly close eye on Dell’s storage business, where a growing number of VARs and MSPs seem to be embracing Compellent — which Dell acquired earlier this year.

Dell PartnerDirect members must have a valid reseller certificate, an active company website and an active e-mail account tied to the company domain. Benefits include Dell training and certifications, customer financing, access to co-branding marketing materials and access to the PartnerDirect Portal.

Dell PartnerDirect has been winning momentum with a growing number of VARs, but MSPmentor still hears concerns — from time to time — about Dell moving too slowly on financing deals and other types of partner assistance.

Additional insights from Joe Panettieri.