Check out this 8 page whitepaper by Stratus Technologies.
Abstract
While the benefits of server virtualization at the corporate data center are receiving a great deal of attention, its ability to address lifecycle management issues may make virtualization even more compelling at the manufacturing plant. Along with the advantages, however, come additional challenges and risks. This paper offers best practices you can use to benefit from server virtualization today, while avoiding mistakes that could affect the availability and performance of mission-critical manufacturing IT.
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Leaving you with the following conclusion.
As server virtualization technology matures, it is becoming suitable for the much more exacting demands of mission-critical manufacturing applications. Server virtualization can be a boon for managing the lifecycles of the many applications that make up an integrated MES environment and other mission-critical manufacturing applications with a few cautions. You can gain new capabilities and reduce costs, as long as you choose appropriate technology and plan properly.
Download the whitepaper, here.