Chapter 5.2 Virtualization{0}
VMware is in the process of creating a new product set which they are currently calling Project Horizon in order to beat its competitor, Citrix. VMware plans to develop a product that will connect virtual applications and virtual desktops to desktop computers and handheld devices. VMware is taking a different approach to its product. It is considering the user before the hardware. Users will be able to customize their profiles by installing their own applications and storing personal data; the data can then be accessed from any place. Most virtual infrastructures store configurations and applications on a storage area network. According to Fogarty (2010), “Many companies get overwhelmed with the number of golden images they save, waste time sorting and managing them, and waste storage space by keeping dozens or hundreds of golden images on file” (Forget the golden image section, para. 1). Project Horizon wants to reduce these images by treating them as a web page. When a user logs in, management software will be able to configure the user’s desktop environment by streaming the software online or the user can access it from a web site.
This article relates to the topic of virtualization discussed in chapter 5.2 of the textbook. Baltzan and Phillips (2009) describe virtualization by stating, “In a virtualized environment, the logical functions of computing, storage, and network elements are separated from their physical functions” (p. 186). VMware is attempting to accomplish this with its Project Horizon. Users will be able to access their data from anywhere. Project Horizon is also attempting to cut down on the storage space used. I liked this article because VMware is using a different approach to personally reach the user. Project Horizon is also user friendly since many people are already familiar with application download sites. The cloud metaphor that VMware uses is an effective strategy to market their products. It further supports the company’s claim that data will be accessible anywhere.
References
Baltzan, P. & Phillips, A. (2009). Business Driven Information Systems (2nd ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
Fogarty, K. (2010, September). 5 Ways VMware Plans to Beat Citrix With Project Horizon. Retrieved September 29, 2010, from http://www.cio.com/article/620230/5_Ways_VMware_Plans_to_Beat_Citrix_With_Project_Horizon
VMwaretv. (2010, September 2). VMware “Cloud” Opening for VMworld 2010. Retrieved September 29, 2010, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxpmyla-IXU