Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) software is a type of technology that enables businesses to host virtual desktops on remote servers rather than individual machines. It can provide a range of benefits, from reduced hardware costs to enhanced security and flexibility. However, choosing the right VDI software can be challenging, with a range of factors to consider. This article will explore some of the most important factors to consider when choosing your virtual desktop infrastructure software.
Understanding Your Needs
Before you start evaluating VDI software options, it’s important to understand your business requirements. What are your current pain points? What do you hope to achieve with VDI? Is full VDI a requirement or is application virtualization sufficient for your purposes?
Consider the size of your organization, your existing IT infrastructure, and your anticipated growth trajectory. Deciding between on-premises or cloud-hosted is also a major cost factor in your decision making. These factors can all impact the type of desktop virtualization software that will work best for your needs and that can remain within budget.
Cost Considerations
When it comes to desktop virtualization software, cost is always a significant factor to consider. VDI software can range in price from free to several thousand dollars per user per year. While cost shouldn’t be the only factor you consider, it’s important to balance your budget with the features you need.
If you are implementing desktop virtualization as part of an ERP system, you may need to consider both the ERP cost and requirements—including the virtualization cost—to determine the overall cost of implementation. Look for virtual application or virtual desktop software that provides the functionality you require without overburdening your bottom line, and don’t forget to factor in any ongoing maintenance costs as well.
Security Features
The cost of cybercrime is estimated to reach $10.5 trillion by 2025, according to a 2022 cybercrime report. One of the biggest advantages of virtual application or virtual desktop software is enhanced security because data does not stay on the end user’s device. However, not all virtualization software is created equal when it comes to security features. Look for software that provides end-to-end encryption, access controls, and audit logging. Compliance considerations may also be important, particularly if you’re in a regulated industry.
Performance and User Experience
Another important consideration when choosing virtual application or virtual desktop software is performance and user experience. Software that is slow or unresponsive can lead to frustration and decreased productivity. Look for software that can provide a fast, reliable experience, even for users with high-performance needs such as CAD or video editing. A good end user experience means fewer support calls.
Scalability
As your business grows, your virtual application or virtual desktop software needs may change. Look for software that can grow with you, with flexible licensing options and the ability to scale up or down as needed. This can help you avoid having to switch software down the line, saving you time and money in the long run.
Integration and Compatibility
If you have an existing IT infrastructure, it’s important to consider how your virtual application or virtual desktop software will integrate with your current systems. Look for virtual application or virtual desktop software that is compatible with your current applications, devices, and data storage solutions. One that is hypervisor agnostic will give you the most flexibility and avoid being locked in, if things don’t go as expected. This can help you avoid costly and time-consuming integration challenges down the line.
Back to the ERP example above, it is also worth exploring whether there are any alternatives to your current ERP solution that may offer better integration with your virtual application or virtual desktop software. For example, if you’re currently using Netsuite as your ERP system, you may want to research alternatives to Netsuite that are better suited for virtual application or virtual desktop integration. This could help you avoid compatibility issues and ensure that your system is fully integrated with your ERP solution.
Vendor Support
When choosing virtual application or virtual desktop software, it’s important to consider the level of support you’ll receive from the vendor. Look for virtual application or virtual desktop software providers that offer robust support and maintenance options, including access to technical support, software updates, and training materials. This can help you avoid downtime and quickly resolve any issues that arise.
Implementation and Management
Implementing and managing virtual application or virtual desktop software can be complex, particularly if you’re new to the technology. Look for virtual application or virtual desktop software that provides robust management tools, including remote desktop management, automated software updates, and user management. A single, easy to use admin console will always be far easier to manage than multiple consoles. This can help you streamline the implementation process and ensure ongoing success.
Customization and Personalization
Not all virtual application or virtual desktop software is created equal when it comes to customization and personalization capabilities. Look for virtual application or virtual desktop software that allows you to customize the user experience, including desktop backgrounds, applications, and user preferences. This can help you tailor the experience to your users’ needs and preferences.
Mobility and Access
Finally, consider mobility and access when choosing the virtual application or virtual desktop software. Look for virtual application or virtual desktop software that enables remote access and supports mobile devices. This can help you provide flexibility to your workforce, enabling them to work from anywhere while still enabling them to access the same desktop environment and applications they would use in the office. Software that can support remote work without a VPN, will lower your costs and allow your team to work more efficiently and securely.
These Factors are Key to the Right Virtual Desktop for Your Business
In conclusion, the right virtual application or virtual desktop software can provide numerous benefits for your business, including enhanced security, flexibility, and cost savings. However, choosing the right software can be challenging. By considering the factors outlined in this article, you can evaluate your options and find a virtual application or virtual desktop solution that meets your unique needs. From understanding your requirements to evaluating cost, security, performance, scalability, integration, support, and management considerations, taking a holistic approach to virtual application or virtual desktop software selection can help you make the right choice for your organization.