IBM and Canonical are introducing a cloud- and Linux-based desktop package called Client for Smart Work in the US designed for use on a company’s existing fleet of personal computers (PCs) or low-cost netbooks.
According to IBM, the new package can be embedded in business processes and is compatible with SOA-based IT environments and gives people a complete, open, and secure alternative to Microsoft desktop software.
IBM claimed that its Client for Smart Work based on its productivity and collaboration software, helps organisations save up to 50% per seat on software costs versus a Microsoft-based desktop, in addition to avoiding requisite hardware upgrades.
The US offering includes several open standards-based components such as: Word processing, spreadsheets and presentations from IBM Lotus Symphony; email from IBM Lotus Notes or the cloud-based LotusLive iNotes; cloud-based, social networking and collaboration tools from LotusLive.com; and Ubuntu, an open platform for netbooks, laptops, desktops, and servers.
IBM said that since Client for Smart Work is based on Eclipse, Linux and open web standards, it can integrate with any third-party software, which gives companies the freedom to use technologies of their choice, extend their functions and preserve existing investments. This software bundle can also be extended to cloud and virtual desktop infrastructures using VERDE software from Virtual Bridges.
Reportedly, US-based customers can purchase the IBM Client for Smart Work from business partners such as Canonical, CSS Corp., Compariv, Mainline, Midas Networks, Red Hat, Virtual Bridges and ZSL.
