Session MGT327 - System Centre and the Desktop
This session revolved around desktop management using Microsoft System Center Operations Manager. There wasn't much new information here - new for me, but most of it is information Mat already got from 1E
There were a few interesting tid-bits to watch out for, though. They cited a survey that said users generally only report 10% of application or workstation crashes to the helpdesk, of which only half of those (if that) ever get escalated past first level.
One of the features they're promoting is having the Dr Watson / Windows Error reporting subsystem upload crash reports to a Windows Sahre, where Operations Manager can analyse and report on them. This allows better visibility as to where there may be faulty hardware or a buggy device driver, which can be prioritised for repair or escalated to the vendor.
They spoke a great deal about the system installers and software distribution too, and driver management has been given a lot of attention, both in system upgrades and slipstreaming them into new installs.
Application distribution now supports multicasting, which may make NMC happier. You can also schedule a maintenance period (on a user/group or site level), to better manage application distribution and patching. Wake on LAN is also supported, so updates can be downloaded to desktop machines overnight.
There's also a bit of work done with Intel's vPro chipset, which can allow SCOM to do remote hardware inventory while a machine is powered down. Even to the point of changing BIOS settings or even re-flashing the BIOS.
Other conference notes:
1) There are discounts on Microsoft Press books - 30% off, with an additional 5% if you buy 3 or more. So, if there's anything you want me to get, let me know.
2) I've noticed a reasonable number of people using netbooks here, predominantly the Asus EeePCs but a few others. I suppose it makes a lot of sense, given that they're light weight and have good battery life.
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3 comments:
...and don't run Windows which means it's likely to be stable for the entire event....but I'm sure nobody thought of that going to an MS conference ;)
Well some run XP well so you never know...
Also lots of reports of Windows 7 running superbly on Netbooks now, so you may have to consider them as a mobile platform to add to the matrix soon enough ;-)
I'll have a Dell mini please.
Dell Mini is an excellent idea.
Colin, could you please put it in Frontier for a POC/Evaluation.
I'll do a controlled test at LotusSphere, to assess how it goes in a conference situation.
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