Broadcom's VMware Takeover: A Pricey Disruption
Two years post-acquisition, VMware users still face steep prices and uncertainty under Broadcom's reign. Is it time for them to jump ship?
Broadcom's acquisition of VMware, finalized in November 2023, continues to ripple through the virtualization world. Over two years in, it's clear that many VMware customers are still grappling with the aftermath of the takeover, facing higher prices, a fog of uncertainty, and the headache of reducing vendor lock-in.
The Price Hike Dilemma
CloudBolt Software, a hybrid cloud management platform, recently released a report titled "The Mass Exodus That Never Was: The Squeeze Is Just Beginning." It's a compelling snapshot of the ongoing struggles faced by VMware clients. CloudBolt surveyed 302 IT decision-makers from North American firms with at least 1,000 employees. Despite not being exhaustive, it sheds light on the hurdles these companies face.
According to the survey, a staggering 88% of respondents still find the acquisition disruptive. Price hikes top the list of complaints, with 89% of those surveyed naming it the primary driver of their woes. The pitch deck might say one thing, but for customers, the reality is a wallet-draining affair.
Uncertainty and Trust Issues
Uncertainty about Broadcom's plans isn't just a minor concern, it's a looming cloud for 85% of respondents. There's a pervasive sense of waiting for the other shoe to drop. Add to this the shift from perpetual licenses to subscriptions and you've got a recipe for discontent. 72% of those surveyed aren't thrilled about this change, which feels more like a forced march than a strategic pivot.
What about support quality? 78% express concern, suggesting that Broadcom's customer service may not be living up to expectations. You can bet that's a sore spot for IT departments that depend on reliable support to keep the wheels turning.
Partnerships and Product Bundling
The changes aren't limited to pricing and licensing. Broadcom's revamped VMware partner program and the bundling of products have stirred the pot too. The survey highlights that 68% of respondents are troubled by partner program changes, while 65% aren't happy about product bundling.
So, what's the real story here? Are VMware's customers just grumbling, or is there a genuine risk of a mass exodus? The founder story might be intriguing, but in the end, the metrics tell a more compelling tale. With such widespread dissatisfaction, one has to wonder: How long before VMware clients decide enough is enough and start seeking alternatives?
In the trenches, the grind is real. Broadcom's strategy might be to tighten the squeeze, but the loyalty of its customer base hangs in the balance. The question is, will loyalty hold fast, or will it crumble under the weight of rising costs and growing frustration?