Windows 7 Adoption Takes Priority

Windows 7 adoption is fast becoming a top priority for many businesses as IT leaders are preparing for the end of Windows XP support in April 2014. In a recent reader’s survey, Redmond Magazine found that IT professionals plan to replace old PCs with Windows 7 PCs in overwhelming numbers.[1] While smartphones and tablets are on the rise, PCs continue to be the prominent business and consumer computing device, and Windows 7 is the OS of choice for migration and new machines. Gartner indicates that while PC sales will dominate over the next couple years, they will begin dropping (or altering dramatically) after 2015 as the demand for mobility continues to increase.[2]

Based on their research, VMWare suggests 64 percent of Enterprises still need to migrate from XP to Windows 7. SMBs are slightly ahead but just barely.[3]

Companies are feeling the pressure of the April 2014 deadline. According to VMware, security and compliance are the top drivers for Windows 7 adoption. While a range of reasons may have caused the reluctance for adoption thus far, companies have been primarily hesitant due to user downtime and a drain on IT resources.

As businesses prepare for Windows 7 adoption, they must consider the users, the hardware and the software. By understanding who will be affected and for how long, businesses can develop a calendar for migration designed minimize user impact. A hardware and software (application) inventory should expose potential conflict with Windows 7, so that appropriate plans can address conflicts.

Integracon is helping many of our clients manage this migration smoothly. Our trained experts can help you develop a migration plan that minimizes downtime and addresses the unique challenges facing your business. For a consultation Windows 7 adoption in your business, give Integracon a call at 865-330-2323 or chat via Integracon.com.

[1] Jeffrey Schwartz. “2013 Reader Survey: Your Take on Windows 8, the Future of Microsoft and More.” Redmond, May 8, 2013
[2] Rob van der Meulen and Janessa Rivera. “Gartner Says Worldwide PC, Tablet and Mobile Phone Shipments to Grow 5.9 Percent in 2013 as Anytime-Anywhere-Computing Drives Buyer Behavior.” Gartner News Room, June 24, 2013
[3] Sarah Semple. “Beware of Windows 7 Migration Hazards.” VMware Blogs, May 1, 2013

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