Computacenter cuts Windows XP deployment time to 15 minutes per desktop

		Desktop deployments have become increasingly complex, and our new solution is designed to reduce the risks associated with such projects.

Businesses could be able to reduce their deployment time for Microsoft Windows XP from one hour to as low as 15 minutes per user, thanks to a new desktop migration solution from Computacenter.

The Rapid Desktop Migration Solution builds on Microsoft's 'zero-touch' technology to provide organisations with a unique cost-effective, end-to-end deployment method. The bespoke Computacenter solution will also help companies overcome common business desktop upgrade challenges, such as imaging, application compatibility, data migration and transfer of user settings.

Simon Oecken, Computacenter's Consultancy Practice Director, commented: "Desktop deployments have become increasingly complex, and our new solution is designed to reduce the risks associated with such projects. There is currently a pent-up demand for desktop deployment projects within UK organisations, who are not only finding it difficult to extend the life of ageing systems but also need added protection against viruses and security threats. By speeding up deployment, we enable customers to realise the benefits of the new operating system more rapidly."

Computacenter has already rolled out a number of Windows XP environments for customers, such as Greater London Authority and leading housing provider Places for People, and expects many more organisations to move to the new operating system now that there is a faster deployment option.

The Rapid Desktop Migration Solution brings together a range of core Computacenter services, such as auditing, compatibility testing, security, imaging, application packaging and implementation, to provide organisations with a seamless deployment tool. "By combining our expertise and industry best practice with Microsoft's zero-touch technology, we have been able to develop a deployment solution that further enhances the performance of Microsoft's Business Desktop Deployment strategy," added Oecken.

The solution uses Active Directory, Remote Installation Server and zero-touch scripting to automate the deployment process, which once complete will greatly reduce the need for IT departments to provide desk-side support in the future. "Our deployment solution helps future-proof subsequent desktop migrations and the ongoing management of the estate, by building in the processes and technology required for remote monitoring and support," commented Oecken. "As a result, the Rapid Desktop Migration Solution enables organisations to reduce the complexities of their current desktop deployment project, and ensure centralised management of desktop upgrades and software applications. It also helps improve business continuity by decreasing the disruption experienced by end users, which in turn helps improve productivity and efficiency."

Steve Beswick, Partner Director at Microsoft, commented: "The additional detail that Computacenter has added to our core offering demonstrates its breadth and depth across all areas of the desktop migration and management. Computacenter's solution will help ensure our joint customers are quickly able to deploy and manage Microsoft's business desktop with ease and a minimum of business disruption."