CIO weekly wrap-up: SaaS contracts, vendor management, data protection

Welcome back, readers! This past week at SearchCIO.com, we covered desktop virtualization, Software as a Service (SaaS) contract negotiations, IT vendor management offices and data protection services and strategies. Check out the full stories below!

Desktop virtualization not all about cost savings – Virtual desktops have strong security and management benefits, but looking to desktop virtualization to save money may be a stretch. Read this article to get an idea of the benefits and drawbacks.

In SaaS contract negotiations, focus on customization, future pricing – In a recession, everybody is looking to make and save money where possible. Changing pricing models, longer contracts and customization are making it harder to switch providers, so build safety nets into your SaaS contracts.

How to build an IT vendor management office or standards body – Vendor management offices and standards bodies can help large organizations save money on IT purchasing and better manage vendor relations, both critical during a recession. Read this story for advice on how to set up a vendor management office and insights into how they can properly assess vendors.

Data protection services and strategies for enterprise CIOs – Enterprise CIOs can improve data protection in their organizations by reviewing the strategies, case studies, tips and technologies in this extensive guide.