Desktop virtualization redefines how desktop computer services are delivered in the enterprise by offering the best of both worlds: centralization plus full desktops for more types of users.
The centralization and management of desktop application delivery is an important value of desktop virtualization. But the ultimate value of desktop virtualization is its transformative potential for how desktops are managed - moving from desktop asset management to providing desktops as a service.
Situation: Desktop virtualization with take off in 2010 with 40% of organizations already piloting planning,
End-user acceptance is one of the biggest challenges to desktop virtualization adoption. IT should have a plan in place to guide communications efforts during the transition. By maintaining a consistent message and a consistent front, IT can ensure a smoother VDI implementation.
Desktop virtualization has transformative potential for how desktops are managed - moving from desktop asset management to providing desktops as a service. End user experience is a critical limitation of remote access virtual desktops. In View 4, VMware is addressing user experience with a new remote access protocol called PC over IP (PCoIP).
VMWare is the dominant player in server virtualization but Citrix has a long history in end user services.
Citrix and VMware are the current market leaders in desktop virtualization. This is an emerging market, and the leaders have been aggressive to the benefit of both features and pricing.
For serious server virtualization - beyond proof of concept testing - VMware is the obvious choice as it dominates the market. Many organizations do not explore alternatives.
29% of enterprises will be undertaking facility upgrades or refreshes 2010 aimed at extending the life of their existing data centers.
An open source solution (OSS) such as LAMP can offer capital cost savings. However, choose LAMP only if the development team has the right skill set and experience to leverage the flexibility of an OSS to produce high performance Web applications.
Situation. Implementers generally report success in their virtualization projects.
Situation. For many organizations, particularly midsized enterprises, improved infrastructure availability and recovery is as big a driver for server virtualization as consolidation.
Implementers largely report success in desktop virtualization projects. There are potential pitfalls if the project is not managed right.
Desktop virtualization can transform the way that desktop computing services are delivered to end users. Change can be challenging on both IT and the users. Early adopters have reported largely successful initial implementations.
For many organizations, particularly mid-sized enterprises, improved infrastructure availability and recovery is as big a driver for server virtualization as consolidation. Enterprises should leverage virtualization for better availability and DR, but should also recognize particular issues to watch for in regards to backup.