Infrastructure Optimization tips
In discussing optimization of business structures with clients the discussion generally boils down to "what is our largest impediment to success". Success termed as increased efficiency gained through automation of the more mundane tasks (patch management, matching up software with a standardized client platform, highlighting and addressing security risks) to name a few). To get to reduced costs and higher alignment with the direction of the business, two steps are needed, one is typically done, and the second few address. The real issue is that the savings and alignment come from the second step, not the first.
Step 1 - Install and implement management software for servers and desktops.
Step 2 - Add the process and free management packs to create zero touch OS installation, zero touch applicaton software installation (aka self service), and monitoring of the self service function to get an accurate application usage count for license management.
Not everyone wants to become a guru at this (or needs to), and for this, Microsoft has partner firms specializing in the installation of step 2, for which the service ROI has a near term recapture (ask em to show you and prove it).
Want more information? Try the Microsoft Operations Framework Self Assessment..
http://www.microsoft.com/smserver/default.mspx
