subject: Is Cloud Computing the next big thing? [print this page] Is Cloud Computing the next big thing? Is Cloud Computing the next big thing?
Continuing technological evolution, coupled with economical, operational and commercial risk as well as environmental pressures, has brought us to a tipping point.
IT directors now have to re-evaluate how they deliver IT services and question whether doing everything in-house is really the best way forward. IT budgets and resources are tight, teams can be small and yet demands from the business are ever increasing.
If done successfully, Cloud Computing will make a significant impact on enterprise IT in four fundamental ways. These are:
Implementation
With a Cloud service, the core infrastructure already exists so you can create a new virtual server, new phone user, new email account in minutes. This also allows you to phase your implementation so you don't pay for more than you use.
Budget Forecast
Cloud Computing allows IT directors to fix costs for the operational aspects of IT, typically over a three to five year contract. This predictability of cost also usually means a larger budget for more strategic projects because the budget variance is limited.
Focus
Cloud service providers look after the day-to-day job of making sure that things are operating smoothly, while you look to ensure your business is as profitable as possible. It's a sensible and efficient split of responsibilities.
Risk
When you subscribe to an IT service from a Cloud service provider, it's the service provider's job not yours to get you up and running. The service charges don't start until the service is working and to the level set by the Service Level Agreement (SLA).
