Microsoft, Lenovo win massive NSW netbooks schools deal

Stan Beer
Wednesday, 01 April 2009 05:49

Business IT - Technology

According to the NSW Government:

"Ease of manageability was identified as a key factor contributing to Microsoft’s selection and Windows 7 was noted as having features that will assist in addressing key criteria, such as direct access, wireless capabilities, improved battery life, system management and an application locker, which is designed to minimise unauthorised downloads.

"Windows is also a familiar interface for teachers, students, parents and IT administrators, which will assist in the implementation and training aspect of the roll-out and help to ultimately lower total cost of ownership.

"In addition, Microsoft was chosen for its flexible and manageable approach to fleet management, deployment, software updates, security, and protection for the large number of new laptops.

"Today’s announcement concludes a thorough evaluation process conducted by the NSW DET to identify the hardware and software platforms that provide the best environment for teaching and gives students the necessary tools for learning and life.

"Moreover, with thousands of education focused software developers in Australia and around the world, the NSW Government will, through such development channels, have access to a rich variety of learning software products that are designed to run on the Microsoft platform.  Further, Microsoft support is also available through its 14,000 strong Microsoft partner community in Australia."

“We’re looking forward to rolling out Windows laptops to our schools across NSW and are pleased with Microsoft’s innovative and flexible approach to software licensing and support,” said Stephen Wilson, chief information officer, New South Wales Department of Education and Training.

“Microsoft’s solution is closely aligned with the New South Wales Government’s digital education priorities."

“We’ve also found Microsoft’s platform to be ideal for learning and development and are confident that it is the best platform to accompany our children through today’s education system,” added Wilson.

The Microsoft products included in the NSW DET’s existing volume licensing agreement include:

• Windows Vista Enterprise Upgrade

• Microsoft Office Enterprise 2007- with OneNote & Groove- and Microsoft Office for Mac Professional Edition

• Microsoft Enterprise CAL Suite

• Microsoft Forefront

• Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack

• Expression Web

• Visual Studio Pro