Citrix Systems Inc. and self-styled Evaluation Service Provider (ESP) Runaware Inc. today announced their collaboration to deliver online software evaluation services.
The Web-based services, provided by Runaware using Citrix MetaFrame XPe application server software, lets prospective customers “test drive” full versions of software from independent software vendors (ISVs) and resellers without requiring a download or installation.
In addition to providing potential customers with the benefits of convenience and speed, online evaluation offers software vendors a means of providing software evaluations that eliminate the risk of piracy and the cost of sending out evaluation CDs.
“Customers are three to four times more likely to buy software that they’ve evaluated, and Runaware makes evaluation extremely easy,” said Pelle Axeland, chief visionary officer for Runaware. “Citrix MetaFrame XPe is the key for Runaware to provide effective software evaluations using the Web.”
In addition to the centralized application management and deployment capabilities of Citrix MetaFrame XPe software, Runaware also leverages Citrix NFuse application portal software to Web-enable Windows-based applications without the need for application rewrites. NFuse allows rapid integration and publishing of applications to a Web portal interface.
Citrix and Runaware will work together to offer Runaware’s ESP model to Citrix ISV partners, as well as educate customers, ASPs and resellers, about the advantages of online software evaluation.
Runaware’s customers include Corel, Peachtree, Macromedia, ACT!, Gear Software and Broderbund. Runaware also has partnerships with Citrix, Compaq, Software Spectrum and SIIA. The company has offices in North America and Europe.
