The VersaStack™ solution is designed to offer high levels of ease of use, efficiency, and versatility for cloud deployments, big data and analytics, and mobility. Over time, the platform will be optimized for IBM business applications while integrating Cisco innovations such as Cisco® Application Centric Infrastructure (Cisco ACI) and Cisco Intercloud Fabric.
Chief Information Officers seeking solutions that offer rapid deployment and management options are increasingly turning to integrated systems, in which the complete suite of data center technologies is combined with a pre-tested and supported system designed to operate and be managed as a whole. As a result, the popularity of integrated infrastructure solutions is growing rapidly. According to IDC(1), total global spending on integrated systems is growing at an annual rate of 32.8% and is projected to reach approximately US$14.37 billion in 2017 (up from US$5.4 billion in 2013).
Characteristics:
The VersaStack solution combines the performance and innovation of Cisco's integrated UCS infrastructure with the versatility and efficiency of IBM's Storwize V7000 storage system to deliver a more IT-responsive model.
Cisco's integrated UCS® infrastructure, which includes the Cisco Unified Computing System™ (Cisco UCS), the ACI-ready Cisco Nexus® and Cisco MDS switches, and the UCS Director, can accelerate application deployment and improve the ability to adapt to business change.
IBM's Storwize V7000 includes technologies that complement and enhance virtual environments with built-in features such as Data Virtualization, Real-time Compression, and Easy Tier, which automatically migrate data between tiers based on real-time usage patterns, achieving remarkable levels of performance and efficiency.
The initial VersaStack solution targets data center and private cloud deployments, as well as big data and analytics for large enterprise and commercial customers. Over time, Cisco and IBM will explore introducing additional reference architectures.
The VersaStack platform is based on Cisco Validated Design (CVD) reference architectures, enabling channel partners and customers to deliver applications quickly and with high confidence, while also helping to reduce risk.
The VersaStack solution will be sold worldwide through qualified business partners with extensive experience in Cisco data center technologies and IBM Storwize storage systems.
IBM Global Technology Services will offer services ranging from strategy to maintenance. Solution support services will be available from Cisco, IBM, and qualified business partners.
Both IBM Global Financing and Cisco Capital® offer a wide range of financing capabilities for all aspects and components of the VersaStack solution, including hardware, software, and services. Through simplified payment options, customers can accelerate return on investment and manage their IT lifecycle.
