Make the call once a year in writing, using the partner health score and what you learned in annual joint planning. Release partners with a low health score that has been flat or falling for two years and whose own growth plans no longer match your lines. Partners with a mid or falling score but real capability belong in a coaching group with a written 90-day plan naming the specific gap, what each side will do, and the review date. Handle a release as an operational project covering open opportunities, existing end customers, inventory, and territory coverage.