Dell clients on cloud nine
NEW YORK — Dell has unveiled its first end-to-end cloud solution which enables retailers to seamlessly move to an in-store cloud environment.
Called Cloud Client Computing for Retail, the comprehensive cloud solution addresses endpoint devices, networking, security, virtualization, infrastructure, management tools and services to help retailers realize increased efficiency and cost savings. The Dell-designed Cloud Client Computing solution is customizable to each retailer’s specific environment and needs. Dell explains that retailers can simplify store system hardware by hosting and managing complex point-of-sale and inventory systems centrally in the store or in the cloud.
“Until now, most retailers have had to cobble together products and services from multiple vendors in order to address cloud solutions and virtualization in their store environment,” said Mike Adams, retail industry practice lead at Dell. “As a result of our recent acquisitions that include Wyse, SonicWALL and Quest, Dell is able to provide an end-to-end solution that has been tested and optimized for retail’s unique environment. Cloud Client Computing for Retail delivers a reliable, cost-effective, end-to-end solution that can allow access to any application from any device.”
Dell developed Cloud Client Computing for Retail with the changing retail environment in mind. With smart phones in hand, connected consumers have instant access to pricing and product information, are able to tap their social networks for recommendations and make purchases from competitors on the sales floor. Consumers expect a seamless experience across channels, to be recognized and rewarded and to engage with store personnel that are knowledgeable about products and offers.
The cloud solution allows retailers to access any application or content from any device; increases device reliability while decreasing cost; eliminates the need to store data on endpoint devices, greatly increasing security; supports a test-once-deploy-to-many-devices model; allows retailers to re-purpose endpoint devices for POS, kiosks, customer service or the back office; and allows for the quick replacement of endpoints without the need for imaging or staging.
“We no longer need to send our technicians out to do the initial set up of the stores,” said Dell Cloud Client Computing customer Paul Dinoia, VP of IT at Bob’s Discount Furniture. “The more Dell Wyse thin clients we have, the fewer devices we need to touch; which helps us maintain the consistency and integrity of our systems with existing staff, even though we’re supporting more users…We really don’t need to do much with our Dell Wyse thin clients. We can keep all software up to date easily.”