ConnectWise CEO Arnie Bellini remains colorful and outspoken. And soon Bellini will be able to prove it -- each time he appears on his own IP-based television network. ConnectWise is building a broadcast studio and within a month or so plans to launch ConnectWise TV -- which Bellini affectionately calls "the ESPN of IT." Here's the scoop.

Joe Panettieri, Former Editorial Director

March 3, 2009

2 Min Read
ConnectWise TV: The ESPN of IT?

sportscenterConnectWise CEO Arnie Bellini remains colorful and outspoken. And soon Bellini will be able to prove it — each time he appears on his own IP-based television network. ConnectWise is building a broadcast studio and within a month or so plans to launch ConnectWise TV — which Bellini affectionately calls “the ESPN of IT.” Here’s the scoop.

Video networks and Web-based educational talk shows are a growing trend in the managed services market. Perhaps the best-known brand is Zenith Infotech‘s MSPtv. And MSPmentor’s parent — Nine Lives Media Inc. — is working on a company-wide video initiative that also will debut soon.

He Could… Go… All… the Way

But Bellini has a slightly different vision in mind for ConnectWise TV. He wants to deliver pacing, production values and chatter modeled after ESPN. During our conversation today, Bellini offered these quips:

  • He’d like to be the Kirk Herbstreit of IT. Herbstreit is a popular analyst on ESPN’s College Game Day broadcast.

  • Changing gears, Bellini says he plans to be the “Oprah of IT” when ConnectWise partners show up to be interviewed.

Bellini had plenty of humor in his voice when he offered both zingers. But I also think he’s quite serious about ConnectWise TV. Much of his focus for 2009 involves mobilizing so-called field generals — consultants and MSPs — who can help to grow the managed services market. Those field generals will help ConnectWise develop content for face-to-face training and education events as well as ConnectWise TV.

Next week, former managed service provider Gary Pica (now with TruMethods) works with ConnectWise to help educate aspiring MSPs. Pica also is on the road with Kaseya for a managed services roadshow series. And at the end of April, MSP University CIO Erick Simpson will hold a boot camp in association with ConnectWise.

And somewhere on the Web, ConnectWise TV will debut within a matter of weeks.

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About the Author(s)

Joe Panettieri

Former Editorial Director, Nine Lives Media, a division of Penton Media

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