Call it what you want, ConfigMgr v.Next, Configuration Manager 2011, but the beta has just been launched. It brings a bunch of new stuff in what is not just a refresh:
User centric application management – Empowering Administrators to define intent, and end users flexible access to the right application at the right time
- Allow the administrator to think users first
- Application management model to capture admin intent
- End user self-service software portal
Infrastructure simplification – Simplify management infrastructure, processes and administrative overhead
- Unified management across PCs and devices
- New role based administration and end-user experiences
- Automated content distribution and troubleshooting
- Redesigned core infrastructure and improved scalability
Simplify Client Management – Daily tasks, model based configuration management and improvements over existing capabilities
- Automated compliance remediation
- Client health and auto remediation
- Remote control enhancements
- Offline servicing of OS images
I’ve already blogged about what I’ve seen so far. This is a very exciting new release. The last version seems to focus a lot on OS deployment. This release is emphasising getting the right software to the end user, and allowing the end user to pull that software down on demand. The demos are impressive. Go check out the beta now.