Geometric Implements Desktop Virtualisation With NetApp, Cisco, Citrix

Geometric Limited, a Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), Engineering Services and Offshore Product Development (OPD) solutions and technologies provider, has announced a large scale desktop virtualisation implementation based on the Virtualization Experience Infrastructure (VXI) architecture with Cisco, NetApp and Citrix technologies. VXI is a service-optimised desktop virtualisation platform that can deliver any application to any device in any workplace environment, support a rich user experience, and provide IT with additional security and control.

The deployment will allow Geometric employees to access their server-hosted virtual desktop from anywhere and from a broad range of devices, with the cloud infrastructure also helping to drive business productivity and reduced operating costs.

Based on NetApp unified storage, Cisco Unified Computing System, and Citrix XenDesktop the VXI architecture offers templates for easy deployment, a starter kit for the first 300 desktops, and plug-and-play expansion packs to scale to tens of thousands of additional users.
A cost reduction of Rs. 1.2 million (approx. USD 27000) is anticipated with the deployment of 600 desktops. Geometric has already achieved significant benefits by an initial deployment of 250 desktops, which will further improve with scale.

By adopting the VXI solution the company has been able to centralise desktop management and as a result not only reduce the security threat but also reduce the time spent on management (for tasks like installation restoration of OS and other applications).

Cost efficiencies are expected to increase further by enabling longer desktop refresh cycles, resulting in greater opportunity to enable highly secure remote working, telecommuting and use of consumer computing devices.

Geometric is looking to provide end users access to their Virtual Desktops from their own devices or from their homes in the future, and is working towards deploying a Virtual desktop solution for 3D Graphics applications.

“We evaluated several solutions before we chose to adopt the VXI architecture from Cisco, NetApp, and Citrix to solve our virtualisation needs. This solution allows our employees to work from anywhere, at any time, using any device of their choice, without affecting security or performance; thereby providing flexibility to our employees and enabling continuous support for our customers. Moreover, it also reduces the time and effort needed for provisioning and maintenance of computing resources,” said Prashanta Ghoshal, Director, IT Solutions and Services, Geometric.