Google has launched an enterprise desktop search tool in the UK, adding functionality for IT administrators to its original consumer version, and a new partner programme to encourage the development of software and services around its enterprise search appliance.

Google Desktop for Enterprise is available as a free download and offers a similar toolbar to the consumer desktop search product, launched earlier this year. However, the enterprise version also searches Lotus Notes and offers enhanced security, as well as functionality to let IT managers easily deploy and manage the product.

An MSI-based installer package lets IT managers easily distribute the toolbar across all enterprise desktops and laptops, while a group policy facility allows administrators to define which files should be indexed, said Dave Girouard of Google's enterprise business.

Google hopes the moves will broaden its appeal to enterprise customers wanting to use search functionality to find data held in corporate intranets and desktops.

Danny Sullivan, editor of SearchEngineWatch.com, said adoption of desktop search tools is growing as firms realise toolbars can improve staff productivity. "A lot of people are frustrated they can find information on the web, but can't find data on their own desktop," he added. "When they see desktop search tools they are usually pretty impressed."

Separately, Google also launched a partner programme designed to extend the capabilities of its Enterprise Search Appliance.

"We currently sell servers [which let firms deploy Google search across their intranets] but firms want to do more with those boxes, such as customise them or integrate them with legacy mainframes," said Girouard. "We want to build a network of consultancies and service providers who can offer firms that customisation."