CiRBA founder and CTO Andrew Hillier published a commentary this week entitled "Make sure virtualization isn't the next big mess" where he writes

"Virtualization is gaining popularity as the leading edge solution to server sprawl in the data center. However, few have considered the potential pitfalls of large scale adoption. Virtualization offers immense opportunities for cost savings—with the proper up-front analysis and planning.

Virtualization, in some cases, can create more problems than it solves. It helps IT create a fluid environment where virtual servers can be turned on or off with a few mouse clicks. This is powerful, but dangerous if you don't know the impact of each change beforehand.

From a planning and execution perspective, virtualizing a small set of servers can be a relatively easy process. Those implementing a small scale solution are usually familiar with all of the physical devices, workload and configuration details and other key considerations involved. However, bringing virtualization to an enterprise environment is a different story entirely. Large scale virtualization projects necessitate a data-driven approach, carefully evaluating elements, such as asset identification, business considerations, technical constraints, and workload patterns.

Most virtualization initiatives are approached as tactical exercises in making sure the technology works at a base level. The focus becomes "do these assets fit together on this server?" without consideration of “should they reside on the same server?” When virtualization is rolled out on a large scale, it needs to be part of an overall consolidation strategy in the data center that is supported by sufficient analysis and planning. Testing in the lab is not enough. This only evaluates technical issues without taking into consideration important business factors that the company will face when they move into the production environment."

Andrew Hillier To Present at Virtualization Conference & Expo
With mounting pressure to decrease data center costs while staying on top of IT infrastructure, enterprises are pitted with the challenge to optimize their data centers. To meet this challenge, many are embracing virtualization. While this provides answers to IT managers’ challenges, mapping out a methodical approach with complete analysis and evaluation of all opportunities is critical. Participants will learn: 1. Key considerations in planning for a more virtualized data center; 2. What are unexpected costs and complexities moving to virtualized environments? 3. How does virtualization impact compliance? 4. What should you be thinking about prior to making the plunge?

Speaker Bio: Andrew Hillier, CTO and co-founder of CiRBA, has over 15 years of experience in the creation and implementation of mission-critical software for the world's largest financial institutions and utilities. A co-founder of CiRBA, he leads product strategy and defines the overall technology roadmap for the company.