Taking advantage of entry-level workstations

Most knowledge workers have access to commodity desktop and notebook computers that are used for everyday tasks like word processing and web-based email. Access to workstations, however, is typically reserved for processor and graphic-intensive tasks not typically associated with administration staff. But a new wave of entry-level workstation technology is poised to change how workstations are procured and the types of applications they can perform.

Workstations can deliver a new level of power and stability for 3D and 2D design applications, website development, back office operations and front office applications in many different industries. The increase in speed and memory over PCs gives workstations a compelling advantage for both traditional and emerging application technology.

Computing and storage in one

The global server market is moving to more "hyper-converged" infrastructure in the datacenter, where single systems integrate computing, virtualization, and storage. Workstations are well placed to drive the same level of simplicity and performance on the desktop.

High-end CPU, memory, graphics, and storage options in workstations support the most demanding applications, including innovative interfaces like 3D modeling and visual representations of data.

Advances in component technology have helped make entry-level workstations smaller than ever, ensuring a suitable form for most working environments.

  Benefits

Entry-level workstations offer many business benefits:

• The processing power for emerging visual data processing requirements, e.g. virtual reality
• Support options for remote management similar to regular business PC standards
• Secure, locked-down workspaces for multiple end-users
• The capability to host local virtual desktops for testing and development and isolated workspaces
• Better quality displays and the ability to support multiple displays from one workstation

CIOs also benefit from generally more predictable update cycles with workstations because they have mature development roadmaps.

Design and engineering for all

Entry-level workstations allow organizations to expand their innovation potential by providing a platform for more people to collaborate on product and service design and development.

Design and engineering capability was once the domain of high-end workstations provided to a select few in the organization (part of this was due to cost). But today:

1. Entry-level workstations can be provided to more people.
2. Native and virtual desktop applications can be accessed by more knowledge workers.

The potential for design thinking and product engineering has expanded greatly, as people have access to the tools to drive it coupled with the ability to share ideas throughout the development lifecycle—from concept to customer feedback.

Take the leap into entry-level workstations to discover a new level of productivity and collaborative innovation. Today's workstations are more affordable and flexible than ever.