Desktop Management

Brembo, a world leader firm in design and production of highly reliable braking systems for cars and motorbikes, requested Reply’s consulting services with regard to satisfy two, strongly felt corporate needs. On the one hand the client felt it was necessary to optimize its Italian offices’ PC equipment including over 1000 PCs so as to cut maintenance costs (TCO) and offer improved workstation security. On the other hand the client wanted to offer mobile users a tool which allowed them permanent eMail access from Pocket PC palmtops featuring GSM phone and GPRS data technology.

Optimization of PC management was achieved by introducing a last generation desktop management system which, in addition to traditional software distribution, remote control and inventory options, also offered the possibility of automatically updating PC security. Installation of specific servers made it possible to provide users with the latest software updates and security patches, from whatever location. The servers use Internet to access Microsoft databases and download updates (Windows and Office), and then distribute them together with the relative regulations to office and mobile workstations.

In order to ensure an efficient, functional eMail service for mobile users, specific Exchange 2003 services were configured which offer real time email exchange with Pocket PC palmtops using GPRS technology to access. Users can also download attachments when necessary by complying with set filter rules. Corporate servers are accessed through security certificates guaranteeing the personal information of users who authenticate themselves via GPRS.