Tottenham Hotspur recently replaced virtualisation tech vendor VMware with HPE VM Essentials – and is reaping the rewards.
Virtualisation is a technology that uses software to create a simulated, virtual version of physical computer hardware, allowing one physical machine to run multiple independent systems at the same time.
The Premier League club has reportedly achieved an 85% reduction in virtualisation licensing costs following the move, as part of its wider technology partnership with Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE).
The decision is particularly significant given the scale and complexity of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Technology underpins everything from the club’s day-to-day operations to the experience delivered to tens of thousands of supporters on matchdays and during other major events.
And Spurs’ move should encourage other organisations to reassess the cost and value of their existing virtualisation platforms, according to technology specialist DTP Group.
Gemma Skelley, marketing director at DTP – an HPE Platinum Partner – said it reflects conversations the company is increasingly having with its own customers.
“We’ve followed the Tottenham Hotspur and HPE story since the partnership began, and it’s an interesting one because technology is such a significant part of how the stadium operates and the experience it provides to supporters,” she said.
“It’s a modern, highly connected environment where reliability really matters, so the decision to move away from VMware and adopt HPE VM Essentials is significant. At DTP Group, we’re also seeing customers question rising costs and the level of engagement they receive from their existing vendors.
“VMware has dominated the virtualisation market for years, but the cost difference offered by credible alternatives such as HPE VM Essentials is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. HPE has also created a strong product roadmap, with further innovation still to come.
“We’re seeing more of our own customers explore VM Essentials for precisely these reasons.
“For an organisation like Tottenham Hotspur to back HPE VM Essentials is a strong vote of confidence. This is a high-profile organisation operating a complex environment where the technology has to work; it cannot afford to get this decision wrong.
“What we’ve found refreshing – and what our customers have echoed – is that organisations now have greater choice.”
The reported saving comes as businesses continue to scrutinise their software licensing costs and consider whether established platforms still offer the flexibility, support and commercial value they require.
Skelley added that price should not be the only consideration when assessing an alternative virtualisation platform.
“Cost will naturally attract attention, particularly when the potential saving is as substantial as the one reported here. However, any migration decision must also consider reliability, compatibility, operational resilience, future development and the quality of support available.
“Organisations shouldn’t move simply because an alternative is cheaper. They should use this as an opportunity to review what they need from their virtualisation environment and whether their current vendor is still delivering it.”