Insight to punt Chromebooks at public sector customers

Major Microsoft partner diversifies into Google-based clients

Insight has signed up to resell Google Chromebooks to public sector customers.

The reseller is targeting the devices at education and healthcare clients and will be offering a web-based management console. This is designed to allow IT chiefs to control access for staff and other users, as well as managing applications.

In a press release issued today, the VAR claims machines running Chrome are "optimised for the web's vast educational resources" and represent a "simple, scalable and affordable way to put technology into the hands of more students and teachers".

Chief executive Ken Lamneck said: "There's a tremendous opportunity for Chromebooks in today's education environment. Adding the Google Chromebook management suite into our portfolio gives our clients a great opportunity to provide their employees or students with portable, secure and affordable devices that also provide a full suite of applications that enable learning."

Insight holds Microsoft Large Account Reseller status and its volume licensing business is one of its biggest sales generators – particularly on this side of the Atlantic. But in recent trading updates it has warned that changes to Microsoft's incentive and reward schemes are liable to hurt its profitability in the coming months.