AppAssure is focused on Microsoft-based solutions, including Windows Server, Exchange, Sharepoint and SQL Server. In addition to Microsoft's Hyper-V, it also supports VMware vSphere and Citrix XenServer solutions, of course. These are all strong suits in Dell's x86-centric solution set, but AppAssure does not cover all the data protection waterfront on, say, the Unix/Linux side. That is why Dell plans to maintain its ongoing partnership relationships with CommVault as well as Symantec software, with which many of its customers have years of familiarity and loyalty.
As with its other storage-related acquisitions, Dell can use its installed customer base and broad marketing channels to turbocharge AppAssure's sales even further.
While much of Dell's traditional business, including PCs, remains intact, the company's focus on business computing and corporate data centers continues to increase. One of the linchpins in Dell's strategy is to continue to develop its storage portfolio. The acquisition of AppAssure is another step in that direction and a big addition to its Fluid Data architecture. It is also a big step forward in Dell's increased emphasis on software, as evidenced by its commitment to the new Software Group.
Although Dell's offerings don't offer the breadth and depth of the likes of HP and IBM in the information infrastructure business, it doesn't have to. More important for now is that Dell continues to make sure that it continues to satisfy its targeted customers' needs, and add the breadth and depth that is necessary to achieve that objective.
At the time of publication, Dell is not a client of David Hill and the Mesabi Group.
