Hitting 'Reset', Risking 'Reboot' - VMware's Bold Leap from Complexity to Clarity

VMware, under Broadcom, is redefining cloud with VCF 9.0-simplifying portfolios, reshaping partner strategy, and positioning as a product-led platform.

- By Thomas George

As Broadcom’s VMware resets the cloud narrative with VCF 9.0 and a new approach for partners, customers, and infrastructure stacks, a lot is being shuffled and redefined in the world of IT infrastructure. Are new labels like 'services not products' and 'full-stack' fitting it well? Prashanth Shenoy, CMO and Vice President, Marketing, VCF Division at Broadcom, weighs in. In this conversation with Thomas George, Managing Editor, he explains how VMware Cloud Foundation is simplifying portfolios and redefining product strategy to reshape private cloud for the enterprise. He also addresses many recent shifts—around partners, developers, greenfield versus existing customers, full-stack infrastructure, competitors, and even marketing noise—in this interesting à deux. Excerpts.

VMware has undergone a significant transformation following Broadcom's acquisition (especially with the simplification of its portfolio and Go-To-Market strategy). From a GTM perspective, where does VMware stand today in its journey?

We've completed the foundation phase. The portfolio and GTM have been simplified, allowing customers and partners to experience VMware through a consistent Cloud Foundation platform, regardless of whether they engage with hyperscalers, resellers, or service providers. We rationalised our partner ecosystem to focus on those who are deeply invested in VMware and can deliver real value—which means fewer, but stronger, partnerships. The next phase involves service delivery partners—GSIs, SIs, and software-focused resellers—who possess the customer intimacy and expertise to drive adoption.

What new tracks are being put in place for these new turns?