Grandstream Beta Club Offering New Testing Opportunity to Qualified Applicants for $1

By Christopher Mohr
TMCnet Contributing Writer

Grandstream recently announced that it has started a new beta program that is accepting applicants through July 22, 2014. Those who qualify will pay a $1 handling charge to test the company’s latest IP PBX offering, a device that has an E1/T1 interface, capable of 2000 SIP registrations, and handling 200 calls simultaneously.

Boston-based Grandstream develops IP voice/video telephony systems, gateways and surveillance cameras. The company has partner and certified reseller programs, and beta tests its upcoming products through the Grandstream Beta Club (GBC). Customers can learn more about Grandstream products and their application through a series of webinars.

Unlike many beta programs that have been offered to the public, GBC’s latest program is not easy to get into--previous betas accepted only 10 percent of applicants. The application itself is not lengthy, but it comes with significant requirements. Applicants must demonstrate experience with IP PBX (News - Alert) technology and E1/T1/J1 networks, and make a compelling case for why they would be a good tester for Grandstream.

Participants in the beta program are required to submit a minimum of 10 bugs or suggestions for improving the product. Failure to do so results in banishment from future GBC product tests. Another requirement is to post at least one relevant comment on the GBC’s forum within one month of the test’s end date. Otherwise, the offender must return the equipment or pay a $400 charge to keep it.

As far as beta programs go, the GBC tests are a very effective way for Grandstream to improve its products before they go into production. The GBC program weeds out would-be testers seeking free stuff, targeting only those who have technical expertise in the product, who will actively test the product and then provide meaningful feedback. It’s a very ingenious targeted lead generating system for Grandstream, connecting the company with likely future customers, while shutting out the tire-kickers. 

Edited by Adam Brandt