Hi! My name is Chris Sliga.
As a tech enthusiast and founder of The Vircios Group, I’ve always believed that technology is a powerful tool that can drive growth and efficiency. With my passion for innovation and an eye for what’s next, I’ve always sought out trusted advisors to guide my decisions. However, not all technology partners are created equal.
My experience in a previous technology role with a Value Added Reseller (VAR) that consistently failed to meet deadlines, provide the necessary follow-up, and deliver on promises was a turning point for me. Let me share the story of how I went from frustration to finding a tech partner who truly cared about my business goals.
The Initial Hopeful Partnership
It all started with optimism. I was looking to implement a new technology solution that would help streamline operations for the financial company I was working for. I had heard good things about VARs—these supposed experts who could deliver tailored solutions and add value to the products they sell. I thought I was making a smart choice by partnering with one.
We discussed my needs in detail, and I was promised quick turnaround times, expert recommendations, and a smooth implementation process. They presented several solutions, and after a couple of meetings, I was sold on their pitch. The prices were high, but the value they promised seemed to justify the cost. At least, that’s what I thought.
The Growing Frustration
Soon after signing the deal, things started to fall apart. Deadlines were repeatedly missed, and the promised follow-up was nonexistent. My emails would go unanswered, and phone calls were met with vague excuses. At first, I thought it was just a bump in the road—perhaps a busy period or an unexpected delay. But as weeks turned into months, the issues grew more apparent.
The technology they recommended, which seemed like a good fit on paper, turned out to be overpriced and overcomplicated for my needs. They pitched me a “premium” solution that wasn’t even close to being the best match for my goals. Every conversation felt more like a sales pitch than a consultation, and it became clear that the VAR was more focused on securing a deal than actually understanding my business requirements.
Promises That Fell Flat
The final straw came when the solution was finally “implemented.” It was nothing like what had been promised. The system didn’t integrate well with my existing infrastructure, and there were numerous bugs that hadn’t been addressed. More frustrating than the technical issues was the lack of accountability. I was left to figure out most of the problems on my own, with little support from the VAR.
It was a painful lesson in how a vendor’s focus on making a sale can overshadow the actual value they provide. I had trusted this VAR to be my partner in growth, but they had failed me in every aspect. They didn’t care about my business goals, only about closing a deal.
Turning the Page: Finding True Technology Advisors
The experience with that VAR was disheartening, but it was also a wake-up call. I realized I needed to change my approach to finding technology partners. I wasn’t just looking for a reseller or a consultant; I needed an advisor—someone who truly understood my business and was willing to invest in helping me achieve my goals.
I started looking for companies with a more customer-centric approach. I wanted partners who took the time to listen and who focused on understanding my long-term goals, not just pitching solutions that benefited them. I looked for companies with proven track records of working with businesses like mine—those that offered personalized support and follow-through on their promises.
One key change in my search was focusing on the quality of the relationship, not just the technology itself. It wasn’t about flashy products or premium solutions; it was about finding someone who could help me navigate the complexities of technology while keeping my business needs at the forefront.
The Right Partnership Makes All the Difference
Eventually, I found a technology advisor who truly understood my goals. They took the time to learn about my business and helped me select the right solutions—ones that were within my budget, aligned with my goals, and easy to integrate into my existing systems. Unlike my previous VAR, this new advisor was proactive in keeping me updated, providing regular follow-ups, and ensuring everything was on track.
What I realized was that the right technology partner isn’t just someone who sells products—it’s someone who invests in your success. They understand that your business is unique and that technology should serve you, not the other way around. The right advisor isn’t just there to close a sale—they’re there to ensure that the solution they recommend is the right fit for your needs and that you receive the support you deserve.
Lessons Learned
My bad experience with a VAR was frustrating, but it taught me some valuable lessons:
Look for a partner, not just a vendor. A good technology partner takes the time to understand your business and works with you to find the best solutions.
Quality matters more than price. Sometimes the cheapest solution isn’t the best. Focus on value and long-term support rather than just a low price tag.
Follow-through is essential. The best technology partners are those who keep you informed and stay with you through the entire process, from consultation to implementation and beyond.
Trust your gut. If something feels off—whether it’s the way the vendor communicates or the solutions they’re proposing—don’t be afraid to walk away and find a better fit.
In the end, the right technology advisor can make all the difference. That's not to say that all VAR's are bad, because they are not! What I'm saying is that technology can be a game-changer for any business, but only if you have the right people on your side.
If you've had a similar experience or are struggling with a technology partner, don’t settle for less. Find someone who’s as committed to your success as you are. Your business deserves that level of dedication. My own challenges served as the driving force behind starting my IT consulting firm, The Vircios Group. https://virciosgroup.com
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