09.27.07

Managed PC Solution from Microsoft

Posted in Work at 10:40 am by JohnB

Today I thought I’d bring up and discuss the Managed PC Solution from Microsoft.

The Managed PC Solution brings together a number of Microsoft technologies, but the key one is the Flex-Go subscription service which uses a PC, hardware-modified so it can’t be re-imaged and re-used, which is linked to a broadband supplier. The subscription includes the use of the hardware, the broadband connection and also an a la carte menu of applications. The technology supports a very limited set of functionality when the unit is not connected to the internet so it’s not possible to transport it or disconnect and continue using it.

The Solution Architecture shows that this links Flex-Go, the Field Service Framework and security and protection services, through the Connected Services Framework for provisioning and integration actions.

So this is not a trivial implementation, but when you consider that the product is actually a physical installation into homes and offices and requires a field service element it can be seen that it’s not for the smaller hoster either. I’ll be interested to see what the like of BT and Virgin Media do with this kind of Solution, in particular how they would choose to package it up.. Business Service, Consumer mass market.. there are many permutations, it is interesting to note however that Orange in partnership with PC World (and other providers too) are already giving away free PC’s with Broadband accounts. OK, so this may simply be an introductory offer but are people going to pay a subscription to use a PC, when they could get a fully functional system for free? Time and Marketing budgets will tell!

J.

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