Why bother with the hassle of Windows accounts and managing a multitude of server functions, dealing with ActiveDirectory, configuring domains and other traditional procedures? A viable alternative is to use web services and accounts, similar to those offered by Google/Microsoft, tailored to your company/institution. This eliminates the need to create endless win32 applications that require extensive support efforts. In addition, there are readily available web services for project management, communication, etc. that can save you from having to reinvent the wheel if finances are lacking. The cumbersome tasks of setting up computers, installing software, and configuring complex local networks can all be eliminated using this approach. Thin clients can replace heavy computers.

The web provides cross-platform, cross-browser, cross-device, and cross-fit capabilities, along with Azure Active Directory and Microsoft MDM technologies to provide legacy support. Do you agree that this new web-based management paradigm is more efficient than the traditional one? How long do you think it will take for managers and organizations to realize the importance of transitioning from old corposoft to the web? What challenges might arise when shifting from the "classics" to the web?

P.S. This discussion is primarily relevant for medium and light-weight companies, as well as educational institutions of any size.

It's difficult to find an online service that can offer the same level of integration as AD. There is no comparable solution that provides the same differentiation of rights for print servers, network folders (native win, 1C can work with them), shared applications, access to VCS/telephony, and takes into account the installed HW. It's even more challenging to find a platform that allows all of this to work seamlessly via the public Internet in situations where employees are traveling or starting at a new workstation.

However, it's not impossible to find a suitable alternative. Some cloud-based services provide similar functionalities as AD, but they may require additional customizations to achieve the same level of integration. In addition, temporary access to contractors and approval by managers and their deputies can also be managed through some cloud-based IAM solutions.

Overall, while AD remains the gold standard for integrated network management, alternatives do exist that can meet the needs of businesses looking for seamless integration and access control.

If an organization has 1.5 employees handling tasks, it's ideal to adapt the processes to the services that are being provided. On the other hand, for larger organizations, it's more profitable to do the opposite.

Reputable organizations prioritize setting up computers by installing Windows and antivirus software. AppV is utilized to get all necessary applications, while files are stored on the network balloon. Complex local area networks for office employees are not present. However, a few vlans may be set up for special or remote units, but there is nothing complicated about them.

If you recently learned about thin clients, congratulations! It's worth noting that this concept doesn't only apply to web services. Rather, it encompasses virtualization technologies in general, and vdi in particular.

In today's large companies, many operations are conducted online via SAP, ServiceManager, portals, wikis, etc. However, it's still important to thoroughly revamp the server part for each organization based on their specific business processes.

Do you have a plan for replacing DHCP with web services? Or is it unnecessary for a thin client to have an IP address?

It's true that applications can be migrated to the web, but users will still require networks, DHCP, operating systems, and thin clients (i.e., browsers) to access them. All of this will still need to be administered.

Are you proposing that each student carry a device to shift customer support to users, particularly in schools? Starting in first grade? What will you say to parents who must now spend money to purchase devices or deal with issues like breakage, theft, confiscation, or hacking?

Remember to differentiate between infrastructure administration and enterprise application support.

The shift from traditional server-based functions to web-based management presents significant opportunities and considerations for the design and development of user interfaces and experiences.

First and foremost, transitioning to web services and accounts provided by industry leaders like Google and Microsoft allows for the creation of user interfaces that seamlessly integrate with these services. This integration can lead to a more cohesive and efficient user experience, as users can access a multitude of functionalities and data from a single, intuitive interface. From a design perspective, this means creating interfaces that not only look good but also prioritize ease of use, accessibility, and performance.

Moreover, web-based management opens up possibilities for the development of responsive and adaptable interfaces that work across various devices and platforms. Designing interfaces that are cross-platform, cross-browser, and cross-device becomes critical to ensure a consistent experience for users regardless of the device they are using. This involves leveraging modern web technologies such as responsive design, progressive web apps, and adaptive layouts to ensure a seamless experience for all users.

Additionally, the transition to web-based management may lead to the development of custom web applications tailored to the specific needs of a company or educational institution. Designing these applications involves understanding user workflows, information architecture, and usability principles to create efficient and effective tools that align with the organization's objectives.

Furthermore, the shift towards web-based management may also impact visual and interactive design elements. Emphasizing intuitive navigation, clear information hierarchy, and interactive features that enhance productivity and collaboration will be crucial in creating successful web-based management interfaces.

From a technical standpoint, web designers will need to collaborate closely with web developers and engineers to ensure that the interfaces not only meet design standards but also integrate smoothly with the underlying web services and data sources. This may involve working with APIs, data visualization components, and other technical considerations to bring the design vision to life.
The transition to web-based management offers web designers the opportunity to create intuitive, responsive, and highly functional interfaces that integrate seamlessly with cloud-based services and applications. Embracing this shift requires a deep understanding of user experience principles, modern web technologies, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to deliver impactful and efficient web-based management solutions.