The Best SolidWorks Reseller: 10 Factors to Compare Before You Decide

So, you're looking into buying SOLIDWORKS, huh? It's a big step, and honestly, it can feel a bit overwhelming trying to figure out all the options. There are different versions, different ways to buy them, and a whole bunch of people who can sell it to you. This guide is here to break it all down, making sure you know what to check before you hand over your cash. We'll cover the software itself, who to buy it from, and what kind of support you can expect. Let's get this sorted. Finding the best SOLIDWORKS reseller is key to getting the most out of your software investment.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the different SOLIDWORKS license levels – Standard, Professional, Premium, and Ultimate – to match features with your design needs.

• When choosing a SOLIDWORKS vendor, look for certified Reseller Partners (VARs), especially Platinum-certified ones, for better support and expertise.

• Decide between standalone (individual) and network (multi-user) licenses, and consider if a subscription or perpetual license better suits your budget and upgrade plans.

• Evaluate the technical support, training resources, and customer success programs offered by your potential SOLIDWORKS vendor to ensure you get help when you need it.

• Be aware of the various purchasing methods, including through resellers and online, and explore special programs for students, academia, and startups to find cost-effective solutions.

1. Platinum-Certified VAR

When you're looking for a SolidWorks reseller, one of the first things you should check is their certification level. SolidWorks has a tiered system for its partners, and the highest rung is Platinum. Think of it like getting a black belt in martial arts – it means they've really put in the work and proven their skills.

A Platinum-certified Value-Added Reseller (VAR) has met the most rigorous standards for sales, service, and customer success. This isn't just a rubber stamp; it signifies a deep commitment to helping you get the most out of your SolidWorks investment. These partners are generally well-equipped with extensive resources, including advanced training programs and dedicated support teams who actually know what they're talking about.

Here's a quick look at the different levels:

• Certified Reseller: Basic capabilities in sales and support.

• Gold Reseller: Shows strong sales performance and good customer satisfaction.

• Platinum Reseller: The top tier, demonstrating the highest commitment to sales, service, and making sure customers succeed.

Choosing a Platinum-certified VAR means you're likely partnering with a company that's heavily invested in your success. They're not just selling you software; they're aiming to be a long-term partner in your design and engineering journey.

So, why does this matter so much? Well, these top-tier partners often have a better grasp of the software's intricacies, can offer more specialized advice, and are generally more responsive when you hit a snag. It can make a real difference, especially when you're trying to maximize productivity or get the hang of new features in the latest SolidWorks release.

2. Technical Support Offerings

When you're deep into a project and something goes wrong with SolidWorks, you need help, and you need it fast. That's where a reseller's technical support really comes into play. It's not just about fixing a bug; it's about keeping your work moving forward without major delays. Think about what happens when you hit a wall – who are you going to call? A good reseller has a support team that's easy to get a hold of and actually knows their stuff.

Here’s what to check:

• Availability: Are their support hours a good match for your workday? Some issues pop up first thing Monday morning, and you don't want to wait until noon for help.

• Response Time: How quickly do they usually get back to you? A quick email response is one thing, but getting a live person on the phone for urgent problems is another.

• Knowledge Base: Do they have a solid online library with articles, FAQs, and guides? This can often solve simple problems without needing to contact anyone directly.

• Expertise: Does the support staff have real-world design or engineering experience? Someone who's actually used SolidWorks extensively can often understand your problem better than someone just reading from a script.

Sometimes, the difference between a minor hiccup and a major project delay comes down to how quickly and effectively you can get help when you need it. Don't underestimate the value of a solid support system.

When you're evaluating resellers, ask about their support structure. Do they offer different tiers of support? What's included with your purchase, and what costs extra? Understanding this upfront can save you a lot of frustration later. It's also worth asking if they have specific support for add-on products like SolidWorks PDM or Electrical, as these can have their own complexities. A reseller that provides good support is a partner invested in your success, helping you get the most out of your SolidWorks software.

3. Training Resources

Buying SOLIDWORKS is a big step, but it's only the beginning. To really make it work for your team, people need to know how to use it well. That's where training comes in. You'll want to find a reseller that offers good training options. Think about what kind of training makes sense for your company. Do you need basic "how-to" classes, or more advanced workshops on specific features?

Here are some things to look for:

• On-Demand Learning: Can your team watch videos or take online courses whenever they have a spare moment? This is great for quick refreshers or learning new tricks.

• Live Instruction: Are there scheduled classes, either online or in person, where someone can guide your team and answer questions in real-time? This can be really helpful for complex topics.

• Customized Programs: Some resellers can build training specifically around how your company uses SOLIDWORKS. This means focusing on your specific workflows and challenges.

• Certification Prep: Does the reseller help prepare your team for official SOLIDWORKS certifications? This can be a good way to confirm their skills and give them a confidence boost.

The best resellers offer a mix of these training styles to fit different learning preferences and schedules.

Sometimes, you might think training is just an extra cost. But really, it's an investment. When your team knows how to use the software properly, they'll be faster, make fewer mistakes, and get more done. It's about making sure you're actually using all the power you paid for.

Don't just assume all training is the same. Ask about the curriculum, the instructors' experience, and what past attendees have said. Getting your team up to speed is key to getting the most out of your SOLIDWORKS software.

4. Customer Success Programs

Buying SOLIDWORKS is a big step, but it's really just the beginning. A good reseller doesn't just sell you software; they stick around to help you get the most out of it. That's where customer success programs come in. Think of it as having a partner who's genuinely invested in your company's progress with the software.

These programs go beyond basic tech support. They're about making sure you're using SOLIDWORKS efficiently and effectively for your specific needs. A dedicated contact might check in periodically, not just to see if you have problems, but to proactively suggest ways you could be working smarter. They might point out new features you haven't explored or help you streamline workflows that are bogging you down.

Here’s what a solid customer success program might look like:

• Proactive Check-ins: Regular contact from your reseller to discuss your usage and identify opportunities.

• Workflow Optimization: Guidance on how to make your design processes smoother and faster.

• New Feature Adoption: Help understanding and implementing new SOLIDWORKS capabilities relevant to your work.

• Performance Reviews: Periodic reviews of how well SOLIDWORKS is meeting your business goals.

A truly great reseller sees your success with SOLIDWORKS as their own success. They're not just a vendor; they're an extension of your team, committed to helping you achieve your design and engineering objectives long-term.

When comparing resellers, ask specifically about their customer success initiatives. What does it involve? How often do they engage? What kind of results have other clients seen? This can be the difference between just owning software and truly mastering it.

5. Certification Level

When you're looking for a SolidWorks reseller, one of the first things you should check is their certification level. Think of it like getting a stamp of approval from SolidWorks itself. It shows they've met certain standards and know their stuff when it comes to the software and supporting customers.

SolidWorks has a tiered system for its partners, and the highest level is Platinum. This means they've really gone above and beyond in terms of sales, customer service, and making sure their clients are happy and successful with the software. It's a good indicator that they have the resources and commitment to help you out.

Here's a general idea of what the different levels might mean:

• Certified Reseller: Basic capabilities in sales and support.

• Gold Reseller: Shows strong sales performance and good customer feedback.

• Platinum Reseller: The top tier, demonstrating a significant commitment to customer success, training, and support.

You can usually verify a reseller's certification status on the official SolidWorks website. This is a simple step that can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Choosing a reseller with a higher certification level often means you're getting a partner who is more invested in your success and has a proven track record.

It's not just about buying the software; it's about the ongoing relationship and support you'll receive. A certified reseller is more likely to have the knowledge and systems in place to help you get the most out of your SolidWorks investment, especially when it comes to local expertise.

Don't be afraid to ask potential resellers about their certification and what it means for you. It's a key factor in making sure you pick the right partner for your business needs.

6. Licensing Options

When you're looking to get SOLIDWORKS, one of the first big decisions you'll make is how you want to use the license. It really boils down to two main ways: individual or network. Think about how many people actually need to use the software at any given time, and that'll point you in the right direction.

Standalone licenses are tied to a single computer, while network licenses allow multiple users to share a pool of licenses.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• Standalone (or Named User) Licenses: These are pretty straightforward. A standalone license is tied to one specific computer. You install SOLIDWORKS on that machine, and that's where it lives. It's great if you're the only one who needs access, or if you have a small team where everyone has their own dedicated machine and license. You can install it on a couple of different computers, like a work desktop and a home laptop, but you can only have it active on one at a time. You'll have to deactivate it on one machine before you can activate it on another, which can be a bit of a hassle if you switch back and forth a lot. This is best for individual users, freelancers, or small teams with dedicated workstations.

• Network (or Concurrent) Licenses: Now, network licensing is a whole different ballgame. Instead of being tied to a single computer, these licenses live on a central server within your company's network. This means multiple users can access SOLIDWORKS, but only up to the number of licenses you've purchased. It's like a shared pool of licenses. If you have 10 people who need SOLIDWORKS but only 5 will ever use it at the exact same time, you might only need 5 network licenses. This can be a more cost-effective way to go for larger teams or departments where usage isn't constant for everyone. This is best for teams, departments, or companies where multiple users need access, but not necessarily all at once.

Beyond individual or network, you also have to think about how you pay for it. You'll see terms like "subscription" and "perpetual." Perpetual licenses used to be the standard – you bought it once and owned it forever, though you'd usually pay an annual fee for updates and support. Subscription licenses, on the other hand, are like renting the software. You pay a recurring fee (monthly or annually) for the right to use it. Most new SOLIDWORKS purchases now come with subscription services, which often bundle in cloud services and other benefits. It's worth looking at the total cost over a few years to see which makes more sense for your budget and how long you plan to use the software.

The choice between standalone and network licensing, and between subscription and perpetual models, really depends on your specific workflow, team size, and how you prefer to manage software assets. Taking the time to figure this out upfront can save you headaches and money down the line.

7. Specialized Programs

Beyond the standard SOLIDWORKS packages, many resellers offer specialized programs that cater to specific industries or user groups. These aren't just generic add-ons; they're often tailored solutions designed to address unique challenges.

For instance, if you're part of an academic institution or a startup, you might qualify for special pricing or licensing terms. These programs can make powerful professional tools much more accessible when budgets are tight. Think about it: getting access to industry-standard software at a reduced cost can really help get new ideas off the ground or train the next generation of engineers.

Here are some common specialized programs you might encounter:

• Academic Programs: Often provide discounted or free licenses for students, educators, and research institutions. These usually come with specific usage restrictions, like being limited to non-commercial projects.

• Startup Programs: Designed for new businesses, these can offer bundled software packages, mentorship, or even credits towards other services. The goal is to help fledgling companies get the tools they need to innovate without a massive upfront investment.

• Industry-Specific Solutions: Some resellers partner with other software providers to offer integrated solutions for particular fields, like mold design, sheet metal fabrication, or electrical design. These bundles go beyond just SOLIDWORKS, bringing in complementary tools that work together.

It's worth asking your potential reseller if they have any specific initiatives or partnerships that align with your company's stage of growth or industry focus. Sometimes, these specialized programs are the key to unlocking the full potential of SOLIDWORKS for your unique situation.

Don't overlook these niche offerings. They can represent significant savings or provide access to capabilities you might not have known were available, all while being supported by a reseller who understands your specific context.

8. Special Offers

When you're looking at SolidWorks resellers, don't forget to check out what kind of special deals they might have going on. It's not always about the sticker price, but sometimes a good promotion can really make a difference in your budget.

Resellers often run limited-time offers on software bundles, training packages, or even support contracts. These can come in various forms:

• Discounted bundles: Sometimes you can get a better price if you buy SolidWorks along with other useful add-on software or hardware.

• Training credits: A reseller might throw in extra credits for training courses when you purchase a new license.

• Extended support periods: You might find deals that include a longer initial period of technical support than usual.

• Promotional pricing: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or special events where prices might be temporarily lowered.

It's always a good idea to ask directly about any current promotions before you sign anything. They might have something available that isn't advertised everywhere. This can be a smart way to get more bang for your buck and get your team up to speed faster. Remember, a good deal can help you get the tools you need without breaking the bank, making your overall investment in SolidWorks software more manageable.

Don't just assume the standard pricing is the only option. Resellers want your business, and they often have flexibility to offer incentives, especially if you're a new customer or looking at a larger purchase. A little bit of digging can uncover some significant savings.

9. Cost Considerations

Alright, let's talk about the money side of things when it comes to SOLIDWORKS. It's not just a one-size-fits-all price tag, and figuring out what you'll actually pay involves looking at a few different pieces.

The price you see can change quite a bit based on what you need. Think about the specific SOLIDWORKS package you're eyeing – Standard, Professional, Premium, or Ultimate. Each one adds more tools and capabilities, and naturally, the price goes up with them. Then there's the licensing model. Are you going for a perpetual license, which you own outright but requires an annual subscription for updates and support, or a term license, which is more like renting the software for a set period, like a year or even just three months? The number of users also plays a big role; a single user will have a different cost than a whole team needing access. Don't forget about the reseller you choose, as they might have different pricing structures or offer special deals. It's a good idea to get quotes from a few different SOLIDWORKS reseller partners to compare.

Term licenses are becoming pretty popular, especially for businesses that want more flexibility or have fluctuating needs. These licenses are essentially subscriptions for a fixed period. For example, a one-year term license for SOLIDWORKS Standard might start around $3,240, while the Professional version could begin closer to $3,928, and Premium around $5,318. The Ultimate package, with all the bells and whistles, could start at roughly $7,097 for a year. These are just starting points, mind you, and the exact cost will depend on your specific configuration and any add-ons you might need. It's a way to get access to the latest software without the larger upfront investment of a perpetual license.

Nobody likes paying full price if they don't have to, right? SOLIDWORKS and its reseller partners often have various discounts and special offers running. These can pop up throughout the year, especially around certain holidays or industry events. Sometimes, buying multiple licenses at once can get you a better deal. There are also specific programs designed for different groups, like academic institutions, students, startups, and even hobbyists, which can significantly reduce the cost. It's always worth asking your reseller about any current promotions or bundled deals they might have available. You might be surprised at what savings you can find.

When you're looking at the price tag, remember that it's not just about the software itself. The total cost of ownership includes ongoing support, training, and potential upgrades. Factor these into your budget to get a true picture of the investment.

10. Reseller Partner Expertise

When you're looking for a SolidWorks reseller, don't just think about the price tag. You really need to consider what they know and how well they can help you. A reseller's actual knowledge and experience with SolidWorks can make a huge difference in how smoothly your projects go.

Think about it: you're investing in powerful software, and you want to make sure you can use it to its full potential. A reseller that truly understands the ins and outs of SolidWorks, including all the different add-ons and industry-specific applications, is going to be way more helpful than someone just going through the motions. They should be able to guide you on the best license options for your specific needs, not just push the most expensive one. They're the ones who can help you figure out if you need simulation tools, PDM for managing your files, or specialized modules for electrical design.

Here’s what to look for:

• Industry Focus: Do they have experience working with companies in your specific field (e.g., automotive, aerospace, consumer products)?

• Technical Acumen: Can they answer detailed questions about workflows, best practices, and troubleshooting?

• Problem-Solving Skills: Have they helped other clients overcome complex design or engineering challenges using SolidWorks?

• Product Knowledge: Do they know the full range of SolidWorks products and how they integrate?

It's also a good idea to check their certification level. SolidWorks has a system to recognize resellers who meet certain standards. Aiming for a higher-level certification, like Platinum, usually means they've proven their commitment to customer service and technical skill. You can often find this information on the official SolidWorks website. Partnering with a reseller that has a strong track record and deep knowledge is key to getting the most out of your SolidWorks investment.

Choosing a reseller isn't just a transaction; it's the start of a relationship. You want a partner who is invested in your success and can provide ongoing guidance as your business grows and your technical needs evolve. They should feel like an extension of your own team, ready to help you tackle any design challenge.

Don't be afraid to ask potential resellers about their team's qualifications and how they support their clients beyond the initial sale. A good reseller will be happy to share their credentials and demonstrate their commitment to helping you succeed with SolidWorks software.

Our team is made up of experts who know their stuff when it comes to reseller partnerships. We're here to help you find the best solutions for your business needs. Want to learn more about how we can help you succeed? Visit our website today!

Wrapping It Up

So, picking the right SOLIDWORKS reseller might seem like a lot to think about at first, with all the different options and what they offer. But really, it comes down to knowing what your business needs and what kind of help you'll want down the road. Whether you're a small shop or a bigger operation, there's a partner out there who can help. Just remember to look at their certifications, check out their training and support, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Taking a little time now to find a good fit will save you a lot of headaches and make sure you're getting the most out of your SOLIDWORKS investment. Happy designing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between SOLIDWORKS Standard, Professional, and Premium?

Think of them like different levels of a video game. Standard is for the basic 3D design stuff, like making parts and drawings. Professional adds tools to make your work faster, like having more pre-made parts and making cool pictures of your designs. Premium is for when you need to test your designs really hard, like seeing how much stress they can take or how they move, before you actually build them.

Should I get a single-user license or a network license?

If it's just you using SOLIDWORKS on your computer, a single-user license is perfect. But if your whole team needs it, a network license is better because multiple people can share the licenses, like borrowing books from a library.

What's a SOLIDWORKS Reseller Partner and why do I need one?

Reseller Partners, also called VARs, are businesses that sell SOLIDWORKS and help you use it. They're like expert guides who know the software inside and out. They can help you pick the right version, get it set up, and teach you how to use it, making sure you get the most value from your purchase.

How do I know if a reseller is good?

Look for resellers who are certified by SOLIDWORKS, especially those with Platinum certification. This means they've proven they're really good at selling, supporting, and training people on SOLIDWORKS. You can usually check their status on the official SOLIDWORKS website.

Does SOLIDWORKS offer training?

Yes, absolutely! Most resellers offer classes, from beginner lessons to advanced workshops. Some even have online videos you can watch anytime. They can also help you get ready for official SOLIDWORKS certifications, which shows you're a pro.

Are there special deals for students or new businesses?

Yes! SOLIDWORKS has special programs that make the software more affordable for students, teachers, researchers, and people just starting their own companies. These programs often have special rules for how you can use the software, making it a smart way to get professional tools without spending a fortune.