The company has teamed up with VMware for the new version which enables multiple instances of software environments to be run simultaneously on the same server hardware.

This can be used for example to set up multiple workflows to add redundancy so that should one fail, the system can fall back to a stable instance, ensuring optimal uptime.

The system also makes more efficient use of hardware meaning that users can either cut down on the physical amount of hardware used or run a lot more software on the same hardware stack, ultimately making savings on power and cooling demands as well.

Kodak EAMER Unified Workflow Solutions marketing director Matthieu Bossan said that the VMware layer meant that theoretically any virtualised software could be run alongside Kodak installations although he said performance would not be guaranteed in this instance.

Where a customer is using the system to add redundancy by running multiple images on separate hardware, only active licences would be charged.

Bossan said that the system is suitable for mid- to large-size businesses, particularly those running 24/7 operations where 'high availability' of IT services is paramount. He added that as well as new installations, the company was seeing interest from existing customers wishing to transfer their software to a virtualised environment.

Kodak Unified Workflow Solutions general manager Jon Bracken said: "We're confident the virtual operating environment option can help printers further reduce their capital and operating costs without affecting the level of service they provide their customers. By eliminating some of the physical servers, printers can significantly reduce the space, power and IT management required to house and run their infrastructure."

The software is available now.