A view of the Macau Polytechnic Institute
SINGAPORE, 24 NOVEMBER 2009 - Citrix Systems, a provider of virtualisation, networking and software-as-a-service (SaaS) technologies, has implemented its dynamic end-to-end virtualisation solution across Macau Polytechnic Institute’s (MPI) 22 computer labs.
E-learning is growing in popularity as it ensures consistent delivery of education at an affordable cost. Macau Polytechnic Institute recognises the benefits and is collaborating with Citrix to implement its dynamic end-to-end virtualisation solution across the campus.
Eases strain on IT resources
MPI runs with government funds and was looking for an affordable solution to simplify out-of-control complexity issues with an increasing number of applications. These solutions are important for the smooth running of this institute as they cater to the varied demands of the numerous faculties employed here.
Jose Chan, head of IT at Macau Polytechnic Institute, noted that all teachers working in an institute have their own ideas about the right software for their specific needs. MPI strives to accommodate their needs as much as possible, and searched for a solution that could not only support a large number of applications but also save storage space and staff resources.
According to Citrix officials, the new virtualised environment is expected to streamline application delivery and lower server usage by 67 per cent.
Significant savings for MPI
MPI has a sprawling campus that accommodates its 22 computer laboratories providing over 1,500 computers for students. A total of 33 applications are used by the university that cause increased complexity and a huge strain on IT resources. IT staff have to spend a lot of time in management of systems and troubleshoot problems as and when they arise.
Citrix’s solution includes XenDesktop, XenServer and XenApp solutions for the deployment of 40 XenDesktop seats. It is currently being tested and if the pilot is successful, it will be rolled out across the entire campus. The solution has the ability to reduce the number of applications on local PCs by 75 per cent.
Because the solution significantly reduces complexity in the application infrastructure, it results in significant savings for MPI. Once the solution is completely rolled out, the institute will no longer have to spend a huge amount on IT implementation, system maintenance, and technical support.
Citrix claims its solution results in less system downtime. Chan is looking forward to have an 'access anytime, anywhere' environment at the institute. The solution will provide convenience to both teachers and students. The faculty will be able to access teaching from their own homes, and students can access resources remotely. The solution also allows administration staff to log in to servers from any location.
Server consolidation has reduced 67 per cent of the servers across the 22 computer laboratories. The reduction leads to lower power consumption and a lower carbon footprint.
"Since installation, we have managed to reduce the number of applications on local PCs from 33 to eight. This is a great achievement and benefits our operations immensely. We will continue to implement Citrix's solutions across the whole of the campus,” said Chan. “Our end goal is to have a virtualised IT infrastructure across the entire campus. This facilitates not only remote learning for students but also enables teachers and administration staff to access the system from any location."
