Google has signed what is claimed to be the biggest ever enterprise rollout of its on-demand Google Apps platform with French manufacturing firm Valeo. The three year contract, supported by Capgemini, will mean 30,000 workers have access to Google’s hosted apps.
The three-phase rollout will initially give users access to Google sites, on-line documents, video management and instant messaging, including voice and video chat. The second phase will offer Enterprise directory and workflow tools to automate administrative processes. The third and final part of the rollout will provide Google mail, calendar, search and on-line translation services.
Users will be able to access the platform from desktops, laptops and mobile devices.
André Gold, Valeo’s technical SVP, said: “We were searching for an innovative way to reduce significantly our office infrastructure costs while simultaneously improving user collaboration and productivity. Our pilot projects demonstrate that this target is achievable.”
Dave Girouard, president, Google Enterprise, said: “The cost savings and innovation made possible by cloud computing help businesses better respond to a global and mobile workforce – especially in today’s difficult economic environment. We’re thrilled Valeo has selected Google.”
Valeo designs, produces and sells components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks. It has 122 plants, 61 R&D centres, 10 distribution platforms and employs around 49,000 people in 27 countries worldwide.
