The new service, called myCOE for my Consistent Office Environment, charges clients to use certain desktop applications on a monthly basis, while other systems that involve processing or consumption such as storage, helpdesk, online training and other applications, will be charged on a usage basis.
EDS and Microsoft jointly developed the system, which is based around Microsoft’s Accelerator for Business Desktop Deployment and zero-touch technology.
myCOE is a Web-based portal that automates the delivery of desktop applications such as Windows XP and Office XP, which under traditional desktop services contracts require manual installation and support.
EDS said it expects the myCOE system to speed up the delivery of office applications and reduce desktop support costs. The system also lets mobile access the desktop applications, with security procedures that let users access the portal from any web browser.
EDS said the service adds to the existing utility-based pricing model it uses on mainframe and midrange computing systems. The company will target the new service at new and existing clients. It currently provides desktop services to around 3.3 million end users.
The pay-as-you-go utility model is being promoted by services providers also including IBM Global Services and HP Services. They claim the model will generate savings to customers by letting them purchase software and processing power according to demand, and thereby not waste money on surplus IT systems and services.
