Good news
-
Server availability : before 1992,
the unique server (UNIX/NOVELL) was based on a mini computer (ICON). Due
to the frequent failures, we switched in 1992 to a PC-based UNIX
server (SCO). It was a very good decision, many times cheaper and faster
than the mini computer option. The good quality of the clones allowed us
to reach a very good availability score.
-
Global availability (servers and network)
: the stability of UNIX and NOVELL operating systems means that the main
failure factor is linked to the hardware, quite easily repaired with some
know-how and a good screw-driver.
-
Cost effective solution :
-
good clones;
-
investment into local knowledge;
-
quick local repair for the majority of failures (spare pieces, 'cannibalism'
...);
-
no support contracts (too expensive), but a very good relationship with
our hardware supplier;
-
the preference is given to open solutions; the proprietary solutions
are avoided when possible to free us from costly and repeated upgrades.
