Canalys

Canalys is a technology market analysis and advisory firm that focuses on global IT, channel, and device ecosystems for vendors, distributors, and partners.

• Research and advisory services on global IT channels, PC and smartphone markets, cloud, and cybersecurity.
• Market data, forecasts, and quantitative models for technology vendors and distributors (market intelligence).
• Channel-focused analysis on partner programs, ecosystems, and routes to market (channel strategy consulting).
• Partner events and forums connecting vendors with channel partners and distributors (industry events and communities).
• Custom consulting projects on go-to-market design, competitive positioning, and ecosystem development (management consulting).

More About Canalys

Canalys operates as a specialized technology market analysis firm serving enterprise vendors, distributors, cloud providers, device manufacturers, and channel organizations that require structured data and advisory support for go-to-market and ecosystem decisions. Its work concentrates on how IT, cloud, and device solutions are sold and supported through indirect channels, including value-added resellers, systems integrators, managed service providers, and marketplaces.

The company produces recurring research streams that cover areas such as Process Control System (PCS), tablets, smartphones, wearables, cloud infrastructure services (cloud infrastructure), cybersecurity solutions (security), and related hardware and software markets. These research programs typically include shipment tracking, installed base analysis, and forward-looking forecasts at regional and sometimes country level, enabling enterprise planning, portfolio management, and capacity allocation. For channel stakeholders, Canalys provides structured views of partner landscapes, program attributes, incentives, and certification models.

In addition to syndicated research, Canalys offers custom consulting services (management consulting) that help vendors and distributors design channel strategies, partner programs, and incentive frameworks. This work often addresses partner segmentation, tiering structures, specializations, and enablement approaches, as well as performance benchmarking versus peer programs. Enterprise sales, marketing, and channel operations teams apply this analysis to align program economics, coverage models, and ecosystem priorities with market data.

Canalys also runs channel-focused events and forums (industry events and communities) where technology vendors engage directly with partners and distributors. These gatherings combine market briefings with structured networking and awards formats, and they function as platforms for partner communication, feedback, and program updates. For enterprises that depend heavily on indirect routes to market, these events act as an extension of channel engagement and planning cycles.

From a directory and taxonomy perspective, Canalys aligns with technology market intelligence, channel strategy consulting, and sector-specific research on cloud, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and client devices. Its outputs are used by enterprise architects, strategy teams, and commercial leaders as inputs into product planning, channel design, regional expansion, and resource allocation, particularly in contexts where indirect sales and partner ecosystems are core to revenue models.