Brian Madden – in his typical, non-controversial way – recently posted that “everyone who needs VDI already has it.” He has a point. The reality is that VDI is constrained in its deployment because it was not built to address the needs of remote and mobile users. Existing approaches have forced compromises: server-based solutions provide strong management capabilities, but poor user experience. Client-based solutions make end-users happier, but add another layer of complexity for IT.

In order for desktop virtualization to gain broader deployment, we must provide an architecture that supports the way companies really work: with strong centralized management so IT can easily provision or migrate endpoint hardware, and use a single base image for patching and updates. We also must also take into account the needs of end users – especially those who are remote or mobile. They want to work as they always have, without complicated check-in procedures or being tethered to a slow network. The right approach can add value far beyond image management.  Companies can improve their support SLAs by troubleshooting an ailing laptop – even if the end user isn’t connected to the network, or re-imaging a remote PC in minutes instead of days. Wanova can do this — in-place, and without losing personalization or requiring a painful data restore.

What do you think? Is it time to re-define desktop virtualization?