Evaluating a new technology for distributing software

We are currently evaluating a new technology to distribute software to SHU workstations.

The technology is known as ‘application virtualization’ and the product we are using to deliver this is Application Jukebox. This technology does not install applications to the workstation as traditional software installation does, but provides a package that is launched within it’s own environment and separated from the operating system but interacts with the OS such that whilst running the software application users will be unaware that the application is not actually installed on the workstation.

If the evaluation is successful we hope that this may provide a number of benefits for the University, including:

  • Faster times to re-image labs and deploy all the required software
  • Rapidly deploy updated versions of applications
  • Enhanced testing procedures
  • Wider availability of applications within SHU
  • Improved workstation performance

Testing in Norfolk

The testing of this new application delivery and launching method is currently occurring within Norfolk 605. The applications currently using this new technology are:

  • Adobe Reader
  • Anvil Studio
  • Autograph 3.3
  • Cabri 3D
  • CES Edupack
  • Dreamweaver CS6
  • Firefox
  • Fireworks CS6
  • Flash CS6
  • FX Math Pack
  • Google Chrome
  • Mathematica 10
  • Matlab 2014a
  • Mindview
  • Minitab 16
  • Modeler 15
  • Netbeans 8
  • Orcad Lite
  • Paint Shop Pro X6
  • Photoshop CS6
  • Promethean ActivInspire
  • Power Pivot for Excel
  • SAP GUI
  • SAS
  • SPSS 22

Further information

For further information regarding Application Jukebox please see http://www.software2.co.uk/