It was interesting to read Pete's 'rant' (28/04/05) about the Solid Modelling Exhibition and in particular his rant about his VAR. I also went to the exhibition and I was surprised at how small it was (though it was my first time, so was unsure what to expect).
NTCADCAM are our VAR and he's right - they're not perfect (but they are pretty damn close). If Pete were to check his facts I'd think he would find that the main stand was actually Solidworks, and that Solid Solutions were merely 'piggy-backing' the Solidworks main stand. NT was the only VAR who had their own stand and they also had a portion of the main Solidworks stand. I think NT's stand was quite good, the car and engine showed exactly what the software is capable of. Most people designing cars and engines tend to use the high-end packages. It just goes to show - you don't have to spend twenty or thirty grand on software to design a good product. The guys from NT leapt on me as soon as I walked through the door, and were keen (as always) to discuss issues, solutions and just have a general chat. As for the fact that Pete didn't get to speak to the guys from NT - that's my fault (sorry Pete), as I took up all their time discussing future developments.
We've had issues with Solidworks in the past (and no doubt we will have in the future), but NT have always reacted well to our problems. What I've found with the VARs is that it's all down to communication - if you want something, just ask them - if you have a problem, just speak to them. I get a phone call once a month from our Account Manager at NT even if it's only to say hello and discuss how badly Cardiff City are playing (bloody West Ham supporters!). What you've got to remember is that these problems are sometimes 'in the hands of the Gods' (i.e. Solidworks), so sometimes your VAR simply can't sort it out. It must be very difficult for the Tech guys to sort out a problem over the phone when it could be down to your hardware setup (or a million other things which are not Solidworks related). Don't forget - these guys have got to write a bit of software which is compatible with Windows (Microsoft struggle to write software which is compatible with Windows).
Pete - I agree with the majority of your comments, but I think that publicly chastising your VAR is a bit unfair. Go and speak to them (speak to the MD if you have to), and if you don't get any joy - then give it to them with both barrels, but don't forget - they are only human (I think!).
As for the sheep comments - I'd rather be caught with a sheep on the end of my d**k than be caught wearing an England rugby shirt - baaaargh!!!!!!!!!!!!!