Citrix technology allows Busy Bees nurseries to spend less time on IT and more time on its core business

Busy Bees worked with Citrix® Gold Solution Advisor Total Computer Networks to define a new IT infrastructure that combined server virtualisation with a virtual desktop for users. The childcare provider is using Citrix XenApp® 6.5 to deliver Windows® apps and desktops as a secure mobile service, providing a richer and more flexible experience, along with Citrix XenServer®.  As a result, Busy Bees has reduced the number of physical servers required from 35 to just six, with a consequent saving on space and running costs.  The company also deployed Citrix NetScaler® as a remote access gateway to provide employees seamless, secure access to the system from anywhere. 

Benefits of the project include:

• Delivering a consistent experience from anywhere on any device: using XenApp to provide Windows apps and desktops as a mobile service allows staff to access data and applications from anywhere.
• Reduced costs, greater efficiency, improved data security, resilience and scalability: the ability to centralise data and apps and deliver them securely as a service to 226 Busy Bees nurseries has created a more efficient, scalable and cost effective environment. 

Busy Bees is also working with Total Computer Networks to make greater use of the functionality provided by Citrix NetScaler for security, load balancing and disaster recovery.  The team is also keen to deploy Citrix XenDesktop® for those users who require a more personalised desktop and they are evaluating the benefits of extending flexible working to include a Bring Your Own Device scheme.  Busy Bees is also evaluating the use of thin client hardware as a potential replacement for their ageing PC estate.