Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by cloud channel vendors in the post-pandemic era, highlighting their struggles to retain customers and the fierce competition among them. It outlines various strategies these vendors are employing to survive, including diversifying into multi-cloud services, AI products, and exploring overseas markets. Group 1: Challenges in the Cloud Channel Market - The number of enterprise clients has drastically decreased, with only a fraction of the previous customer inflow being recorded [2] - Intense competition among channel vendors has led to aggressive discounting and reduced profit margins, making it difficult to acquire new clients [2][3] - Many vendors are attempting to pivot their business models, but the paths they are exploring are fraught with difficulties [4] Group 2: Multi-Cloud Strategy - The multi-cloud approach is seen as a potential lifeline, but many vendors find it challenging to implement effectively due to existing client relationships and market saturation [6][7] - Some vendors have joined the ranks of emerging platforms like Volcano Engine, hoping to capitalize on new opportunities [8][10] - However, despite initial enthusiasm, many vendors report disappointing results and low revenue from these new ventures [13] Group 3: AI Product Opportunities - AI is emerging as a key growth area, with major cloud providers reporting significant revenue increases from AI-related services [22] - Despite the hype, few vendors are successfully monetizing AI products, with many finding profit margins too thin to sustain their businesses [23][24] - The complexity and high investment required for AI projects deter many smaller vendors from pursuing this avenue [28][30] Group 4: Overseas Market Exploration - Some vendors are looking to international markets for growth, with reports of successful ventures yielding substantial profits [33] - The competitive landscape in overseas markets is more favorable, with clients more willing to invest in cloud services [34] - However, there are significant risks associated with international operations, including legal and regulatory challenges [36][37] Group 5: Declining Enthusiasm for Sales Events - The excitement surrounding major sales events like "Double Eleven" has diminished, with vendors struggling to meet previous sales figures [40] - The lack of robust incentive programs from cloud providers has contributed to this decline in motivation among channel vendors [40][41] - Many vendors are now focused on survival rather than aggressive growth, reflecting a broader trend of caution in the industry [41]