Irrespective of what you pick, the only thing to conclude here from Neil's trip to the Virtualization Exec Forum is that Linux is getting a legit entrance into the enterprise. And you have to thank Microsoft for it. They are letting Linux in themselves. But again we are talking about what vendors are providing.
From traditional systems management software vendors such as CA, HP, and IBM, to newer companies such as Hyperic, to such niche players as PlateSpin, Virtuozzo, and Virtual Iron, the industry is turning toward solving the problems of server management like never before. Virtualization is at the heart of this trend. And because Linux and virtualization are practically synonymous, Linux customers can expect to benefit more than any other segment of the market.
So I don't really agree that it's just Linux customers. I think Virtualization is set for bigger goals. It will probably accelerate the "Kondratiev"* curve and help IT become a regular GPT (General Purpose Technology).
So the big picture: IT will change like never before.
Small picture: 2007. Lots of niche players (Thin computing, Desktop Virtualization, Provisioning tools, Mobile computing etc). Linux. KVM. Xen. Lots more.
So ask yourself this question: What kind of responsibility you'd rather shoulder. Help IT be like never before Or explode the market with an array of "clever rebranding"?
* I'll dedicate an article on how Virtualization is set to change the way we work and live on its road to becoming a regular commodity like water and electricity.
Check out Neil's report.
Comments
Post a Comment