The Next-Generation Workspace Will Revolve Around Mobility and Virtualization

The user landscape has evolved beyond the standard PC or even laptop. Now, users are deploying numerous different devices all requiring access to a central infrastructure. IT consumerization and BYOD has created a new type of user where mobility and virtualization play a vital role in productivity. In deploying new types of mobility and virtualization solutions, administrators must consider the underlying infrastructure as well as the all-important end-user experience.

In April 2012, Cisco Systems commissioned Forrester Consulting to conduct a study to better understand mobility, virtualization, and other key technology initiatives enterprises are implementing to improve the productivity and flexibility of employees. The key areas of focus included the benefits, challenges and timelines for implementing workspace initiatives such as BYOD programs, desktop virtualization, application virtualization and security solutions. The study methodology was an in-depth survey of 325 global IT senior-level decision-makers in the US, Europe, and China.

In this white paper, you’re able to see the key findings which dictate the direction of the user mobile market. Some of the findings include:
• A new generation of workers requiring IT policies and practices which support mass mobility.
• The new consumerization and mobility momentum which is driving technical and security requirements.
• New delivery models and management strategies are evolving to help firms become more cost-effective and support these new initiatives.

This white paper not only outlines the current mobile and virtualization market – it also helps visualize it. The responses gathered were metered and then graphed.

Mobile works are now truly globally distributed and will always require fast access to centralized resources. This is where good management and solid security practices can keep an environment running smooth and optimally. The research that this white paper presents will help managers and administrators apply best practices which will create a truly mobile, user-friendly, environment. Some of the key recommendations include:
• Make mobile devices and solutions a key platform for engaging with customers, employees and partners.
• Anticipate supporting a wide variety of internally and externally provided mobile devices and solutions.
• Prepare for complexity and variety to push the limits of policy, security and performance.

As both the IT environment and the user continue to evolve, creating the right management and security policies will help administrators control the infrastructure – both internally and globally. Download this white paper today to see how the new mobile and virtual environment has shifted how IT organizations think about management and security.