Altiris / symantec - contemplating purchase, would appreciate insight

Obviously every service offering out there has up's and down's. I wanted to ask the community what things do you dislike / like about the Altiris solution and whether you would recommend it. I would appreciate insight from people whether you are a newly on-boarded partner or have been using them for years. Our budget is pretty tight so I want to make sure my first purchasing decision is strong as this will be my first change in the department I will be making since taking over the reigns.