The DIY method doesn't work
Server virtualization is relatively simple compared to desktop virtualization implementations. The DIY method that worked well with server virtualization takes a entirely new meaning and heroic efforts to successfully roll out desktop virtualization at any scale. Desktop virtualization projects impact end-users, endpoints, networking architecture, data center infrastructure, security, replication, data protection, disaster recovery, etc. Missing or failing to make the right choice with any one of these pieces can lead to significant risk, lost time, poor ROI, misaligned skillsets, and failed projects. We have observed this happen all too often over the last 12-18 months as business have tried to successfully roll out desktop virtualization with poor results, stalled deployments, and projects that have had the plug pulled. As a result, we expect to see more and more pre-packaged/pre-configured solutions. Today’s Desktop Virtualization Solutions announcement from Dell is a good example. There is little doubt in my mind that the success and/or failure of desktop virtualization lies in strong partnership, well-defined go to market strategies, and a services organization that can execute. In the case of today’s announcement with Dell, Citrix and VMware have to become super sharp at partnering and building solutions and the integrator (Dell, in this case) is going to have to balance the value each company brings to the table. They will have to know when and how to recommend and deploy one technology over the other or even recognize instances where they are complimentary. At this point, I don’t think it is a question of who has the better desktop virtualization technology, it is who can seamlessly partner and quickly build solutions they can take to market that address the current needs of the customer.
