Reduced IT costs This benefit results from the centralization of IT expertise. By creating a single source of control for information, data, and computing resources, IT departments can consolidate expertise in one place rather than having to localize IT at a number of separate locations (or forcing IT personnel to travel to those locations).
Server consolidation Already an important component of IT planning and change, server consolidation possibilities are enhanced via an EIP's ability to present consolidated server functions seamlessly through a Web interface. The result could be savings in hardware, training, and help-desk support.
Reallocation of resources Potential consolidation opportunities exist for organizations as well. An EIP can, for instance, uncover incorrect staffing levels for departments, or systems and applications that aren't optimally utilized.
Since there are few organizations of appreciable size that couldn't leverage these benefits in a significant way, an EIP will likely appear on the IT departments' short lists once resources become available.
If you find these direct benefits attractive and relevant to you, a drill-down is then in order that maps EIP capabilities to your unique situation, within the context of how IT solutions will be built from this point on.
