Monday Morning Impact – June 26

Dimension Data Extends its Apple Practice with Endpoint Lifecycle Management

Dimension Data has launched a set of endpoint lifecycle management services intended to simplify the secure deployment, configuration, and management of iOS devices, thereby enabling users to access corporate apps and data across Mac, iPad, iPhone and Apple Watch while maintaining compliance requirements.

The move is part of the establishment of an overall practice dedicated to Apple-based consulting, implementation, management, and support for a wide range of enterprise solutions, including Cisco’s video and collaboration solutions on iOS.

“We understand that our clients need a strategic approach to mobility – one that merges the world’s best user experience through Apple devices with full enterprise capabilities,” said Joe Manuele, Dimension Data Group Executive, Customer Experience and Collaboration. “As a global systems integration partner for Apple, our services and dedicated practice will free companies from integration and management complexities so they can focus on their business and unleash the full potential of the mobile enterprise.”

Dimension Data will also open a Center of Excellence (CoE) in the U.S. designed to showcase Apple products and demonstrate Apple and Cisco solutions, as well as highlight how Apple products can be managed and maintained through Dimension Data’s endpoint lifecycle management solutions. Additional CoE locations will open as part of a phased rollout globally.

Channel Impact^®
This initiative will likely help organizations accelerate adoption of enterprise mobility.

Tech Data Launches Small Business Cloud Server on Microsoft Azure

Tech Data Corporation has rolled out a cloud-based server solution designed for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) on Microsoft Azure.

The new Small Business Cloud Server, which is available to all Tech Data partners, is available in three sizes: 1-6 users, 7-20 users, and 40+ users. Detailed monthly usage and billing information will be provided to resellers via the distributor’s StreamOne platform, and pre-determined usage thresholds and limits can be set, if required. In addition to a Microsoft Azure virtual machine, the offering comes with Microsoft Office 365 (Exchange, Office and SharePoint) software and provides backup, storage and VPN functionality. Remote desktop is optional for remote access.

“Small and medium-sized businesses are now starting to embrace the cloud with real enthusiasm,” says Michael Urban, corporate vice president, Corporate Strategy and Business Transformation at Tech Data. “Many users have already migrated to Microsoft Office 365, and there is a massive opportunity now for resellers to move small business servers onto the Microsoft Azure platform.

Channel Impact^®
This offering is intended to deliver a cost effective means for channel partners to remove the burden of applications and security management for their small business customers, and to build strengthened account control in the SMB segment.

Cloudistics Announces New Cloud Computing Program

Cloudistics, an on-premises cloud computing company, announced the launch of its North America Managed Service Providers program, supporting MSPs who seek to create, host, and manage their own on-premises private cloud environments. With native multi-tenancy built in, MSPs can create secure clouds for each customer, eliminating the need for costly dedicated environments.

The program consists of two main components: The Cloudistics StarterCloud is intended to provide an easy way for MSPs to test drive the system at a discounted price. Next, the Cloudistics ReadyCloud establishes a utility pricing model that scales as the business grows. Once a base system is purchased (hardware only), Cloudistics will bill the MSP monthly for only what is consumed by the MSP’s customers.

Customers can start with a base infrastructure and scale to multi-site and multi-geo infrastructures.

Channel Impact^®
The program provides a relatively easy access point to the MRR world for companies that have not necessarily built practices in this area.