Dell on Tuesday introduced two reference architectures and
consulting services for customers migrating to Microsoft Exchange
2010.
The two architectural models, called the Agile Consolidation Model
and the Simple Distributed Model, leverage Dell servers and storage
in deploying Exchange 2010.
The Agile Consolidation Model targets customers building a data
center that incorporates virtualization for server and storage
consolidation. The hardware foundation for this model includes the
Dell PowerEdge blade or rack servers paired with EqualLogic PS
series or Dell/EMC CX4/AX4 storage area network products.
As the name implies, the Simple Distributed Model is for deploying
Exchange 2010 in a less complex environment. This model leverages
server and storage components through Dell's PowerEdge R51, which
doesn't require external storage; or through a standard PowerEdge
rack server with a direct attached storage device, such as the Dell
PowerVault MD1000.
The consulting services include assessment, design, and
implementation of the migration. The assessment includes business,
technical, and operational requirements, and the design matches the
customer's requirements with hardware. Dell also offers support for
both hardware and the Microsoft messaging platform.
The latest offering is a reflection of Dell's ongoing
transformation from a pure hardware vendor to a company that also
provides services to drive more hardware sales, a model that has
been used successfully by rivals Hewlett-Packard and IBM.
Dell in September announced plans to acquire Texas-based outsourcer
Perot Systems for USD 3.9 billion. The computer maker plans to
launch a new unit, Dell Services, into which it will integrate
Perot's tech and business services offerings. The deal is expected
to close this year.
Perot's expertise is in integration, deployment, and management
of IT assets. In September it launched a cloud integration service
under which it advises customers on cloud computing architectures,
combines offerings from different vendors, and hosts and manages
cloud solutions from its data centers.