Bladewatch.com

BuildMyVirtual is our latest iPad and web based application for both the SMB and Enterprise space, it’s a very simple concept based on the self service model for requesting and building virtual machines.

The user selects the specification and options from the screen below (End user customizable with your logo / your color schemes etc)

User having selected everything then clicks the send button which submits the build request:

Both the drop down values and the text can be adjusted easily.

Now the shockingly cool bit.  The application in the background generates an XML file containing the values selected so that you can script it into your build mechanism whatever it is, and then emails it either to a shared mailbox like server builds, a user’s email address or even the help-desk for it to be logged and the xml as an added attachment.

A thank you/confirmation page is then displayed:

This page is called ok.html, and is fully configurable so it can do any cool things like generate xml scripts or commands to kick off the build, or simply have your team/company logo with a confirmation message and mail box or link to the server build/process documentation.

So what is the aim of the server:

• Make the virtual server provisioning process look more professional
• Remove our dependency on endless complex spreadsheets
• Move towards a centralized virtual offering – standard configurations which the user selects
• Bridge between next generation fully automated solutions and where you might be today
• Maintain control for IT to validate configurations, so it can be as automated or manual as you like.

What do you get then?

A zip file containing all the bits you need to put on a web server and host for the tool to work

The source files, the code, everything you need to start with as a template to building our your own version of the tool with the branding, the logos and the functionality you choose. You could even build it around LDAP/SSO if you wish, integrate it to your help desk tool so it allocates a call or a build request number – the possibilities are endless.

What don’t you get?

A tool that builds virtual machines – this app aims to give you the framework from which you can automate or manually provision machines with less manual paperwork, but the right level of professionalism and ability to check what the user has requested is deliverable.

When does it go live?

Soon, we’re finishing off the base product so to speak and making a version for the iPad, and then launching it for free as a template or a real tool for all to use. No tricks, unlocked source files, no debate. However if you want it customized and extended to bring new functionality, we can of course provide that.

Our Live Demo version is here for you to play with until the end of time.  At the moment it just sends me an email with what you selected, but once the code is finished we will make it ask what account you want to send it too so you can see it in action.

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