IBM announced that it has won the "Most innovative use of VMware Virtual Infrastructure" award for its implementation of VMware desktop virtualization solutions by IBM Global Services Virtual Infrastructure Access (VIA) Services. Using virtual desktops, which are hosted in the datacenter and accessed from anywhere, organizations can provide security enhanced application and information access, improving availability to end users, while reducing cost and complexity.

The "Most innovative use of VMware Virtual Infrastructure" award is given to VMware partners that are first-to-market with service solutions and who provide innovative technology and a comprehensive service wrap-around. IBM VIA Services provides clients with an integrated solution to assess, design, implement and manage virtual desktops, enabling employees, partners, and customers to access their desktop from thin clients.

"IBM Global Services is helping to increase VMware desktop virtualization adoption," said Jeff Jennings, vice president, Desktop Products and Solutions, VMware. "By leveraging and extending the VMware platform, IBM is providing desktop administrators with a better way to manage the desktop experience. The innovation and leadership of IBM's VIA services provides customers with a strong methodology for deploying VMware desktop virtualization solutions."

"IBM has developed a unique set of tools and methods that enable customers to accelerate virtualization of the desktop, allowing for maximum return on investment and stronger end-user productivity and satisfaction," said Jan Jackman, vice president, Global End User Services, IBM.

IBM Global Services and VMware have a strong partnership to implement and manage pre-integrated virtual desktops. This partnership helps customers realize the benefits of virtual desktop, improve utilization of their resources and reduce power consumption and waste.

"The solution enables us to better manage our IT costs and operate more efficiently," said Graham Horne, acting chief executive, the Insolvency Service. "By moving desktop and laptop systems to thin client hardware, we will be able to centrally manage our key applications, reduce our energy costs, and be able to more effectively plan and manage cost."

"We chose IBM because of their unique ability to provide a complete end-to-end service. By using IBM's security enhanced VIA Service, our caseworkers are able to work as effectively and efficiently from home or remote locations as they can in an office; thus eliminating the need to travel to offices simply to synchronize data. Furthermore, it will allow us to offer flexible working arrangements to more of our staff."