GridVision has released its multi-tenant automation and IT management platforms for SMBs. As you may remember from my last article with GridVision, in which I saw the beta launch, their technology is based on Azure, uses a web-based portal (pictured), and allows users to create custom policies to best-fit their needs.
Currently, many SMBs are using a variety of solutions, including manual processes to manage their infrastructure. The GridVision release is designed to offer a more broad coverage option for IT Pros to manage Active Directory, Microsoft Exchange, Windows servers and Office 365 from a single platform.
I caught a few more moments with Christian Ehrenthal (pictured) today, where he answered a few of my burning questions:
Harry: I notice that this release was originally set for November 1. Do you all still feel on track?
Christian: Yes, and as you know, software is a moving target. You know, we didn’t really have any major setbacks with the release, but we opted to push a bit to ensure we got the best functionality in the solution, as well as have ample testing time for customers. We really shot for the pre-Thanksgiving (US) deadline, to get in line with some of our SMB customers’ ecommerce platforms.
Harry: Great! So, what is your go-to-market strategy on this general availability release?
Christian: It’s actually a combination of everything. Our main component to this solution is social, in that we are working to build a community. As a result, we have a lot of marketing going through Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. But we are also following more traditional routes, like magazine advertising, and we are hoping that the editorial path will lay a good foundation for our social initiatives.
Harry: Releasing a solution near year’s end has its pros and cons, for sure. Can you tell me what you think the next six weeks will hold? Are you looking to do most of your push this year, or will this be more a 2015 thing?
Christian: That’s a good point, Harry, and we are keeping realistic expectations for this launch. We are in this for the long-haul too, and, although we are starting our push now, we look forward to doing more and getting more community built after the first of the year.
For those of you who want to try the solution, GridVision offers a free community version for up to 100 devices and 100 users. You can learn more at http://www.grid-vision.com/.
