We were setting up 75 seater backoffice for our organisation and we decided to use Linux as desktop operating system in anticipation of reducing TCO.
Basic Requirement
First step taken was to ensure that our sysadmin team is Linux ready with training and studying online references.
Preparation
We evaluated multiple Linux distributions and Ubuntu topped our list for its ease of use and extensive online documentation. Next step was to list down open source alternative softwares for all applications / tools used by our backoffice team.
We did test run with a small user group to ascertain Ubuntu's suitability and reliability for its smooth implementation in a larger environment. Issues encountered during implementation and operations were documented along with their solutions. After the successful run for a month with this user group, it was then implemented at our new 75 seater backoffice.
Deployment
To ensure that Ubuntu installation is consistent across all desktops, the customised Ubuntu installation guide was used which was prepared during test run. The applications installed on desktops were Libre Office, VLC, Flash plugin, Java JRE, PDF reader, 7Zip, Gimp, Microsoft compatible fonts, hplip printer drivers, etc. And likewise-open was used to join Ubuntu desktops to Windows Domain.
As all 75 desktops were of similar configuration we first got one system ready and then used clonezilla to clone this system to remaining 74 systems.
Key benefits
- Reduced TCO which is crucial for growing organisation
- Easy integration of Ubuntu system in existing environment
- Secured environment
- Better system management
- Reduced downtime
- Vast online community support
