CIOs across the private sector lack clarity and conviction around desktop virtualisation, with 49 percent of respondents believing that such technologies promise more than they can deliver, research conducted by Fujitsu has shown.

The view came through most strongly from companies with 1001-3000 desktops where 60 percent agreed that desktop virtualisation is over-promised. This view contrasts with larger enterprises (+3000) who are more optimistic with only 38 percent agreeing. Interestingly, manufacturing organisations remain the most sceptical with nearly two thirds believing desktop virtualisation is hyped versus their counterparts in retail, financial services and other private sector companies who remain more open-minded about the potential opportunities desktop virtualisation presents.

Commenting on the findings, Ian Bradbury solution design director at Fujitsu UK & Ireland said: "What's clear from the research is that the IT industry is doing its usual job of over-hyping the benefits of a technology without showing the real and tangible benefits it can bring. We know CIOs remain committed to technologies that combine improvements in both the experience and service to end users, yet also have a positive financial impact as well.

"The industry has been talking about desktop virtualisation in some form for over 15 years – from server-based computing to thin client and blade PCs. Our belief is that desktop virtualisation is coming of age, with the next three years being the time CIOs will really challenge the way they manage and deliver their desktop environment."