VMware Introduces Safe Passage Migration Program for Users

VMware (VMW) is looking to bring more users into the fold with the introduction of a new desktop virtualization and MDM software migration program. With the Safe Passage initiative, VMware hopes it can persuade more companies to switch to its Horizon 6 desktop virtualization software and AirWatch by VMware EMM solution without significant cost or data migration issues.

With Safe Passage, VMware is offering potential converts a new set of tools and processes designed to make the migration process as painless as possible. For companies looking to change their current desktop virtualization and application publishing solution, the company is offering a cost-neutral switch from any non-VMware desktop and virtualization solution to the current Horizon 6 Advanced or Enterprise editions. As a bonus, new users will also receive three years of support and subscription service (SnS) for about the same cost as three years of their existing solution and support program, according to the company. VMware is including a Horizon 6 update kit, Citrix XenApp to Horizon 6 Migration Service Offering and Citrix XenApp to Horizon 6 Migration tool as part of its solutions kit to help smooth the transition.

For organizations interested in switching to AirWatch by VMware for their enterprise mobility management (EMM) solution, VMware is allowing customers with MDM solutions from rival point vendors to upgrade and choose any AirWatch Management Suite “at a cost attractive price compared to their current support or subscription fees.” Like Horizon 6, AirWatch has a seamless migration path for new customers moving to the new platform, the company noted.

“Another reason to switch to VMware is because the mobile-cloud era requires a modern infrastructure that seamlessly manages data, applications and users, regardless of the device being used,” said Eric Frieberg, vice president of Marketing and End User Computing at VMware, in a blog post. “Although companies can use 25-year-old desktop technology from other vendors as a way to test the transition to the mobile-cloud, pursuing this path is often wrought with poor user experiences, complexities with cloud access and control, and management complications due to inadequate integration.”

VMware’s Safe Passage program is available now. More details on the program are available on the company’s website.