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Up, up and away with Cloud computing

~ Monday, 19th December 2011.

We are only beginning to understand the heights that Cloud computing can reach, article provided by Gartner

 
Cloud computing is taking off on a massive scale, so what should companies look out for as they move their information technology into the cloud?
 
Cloud computing is not just a buzzword anymore. If 2010 was the year that cloud computing went mainstream, then 2011 will be the year that companies have to get their cloud strategy sorted. 
 
In reality, though, cloud computing is a fundamental change of how we — companies and consumers — use computer technology. 
 
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing power over the internet. It turns software into a service where customers don't pay for a licence but for how much they use; it makes computing power and storage space a commodity, bought when needed and scaled up when necessary. 
 

From zero to server in 30 seconds 

 
Ironically, small firms would be best placed to take advantage of the cloud. Indeed, it is usually start-ups that are seizing the moment. 
 
After all, information technology is costly. It requires capital expenditure — for servers, software licences - and a team to maintain it all. 
 

The price of cheap

 
The global economic crisis is helping with cloud adoption. Big IT providers report that customers' budgets are so squeezed that there's a huge reluctance to invest. So finance directors hope that moving to the cloud allows them to replace capital expenditure with operational expenditure.
 
Getting your IT from the cloud may be cheap, but it comes at a price: standardisation. Using the cloud means opting for off-the-shelf solutions. 
 
There will be no, or hardly any, customisation. On the upside, instead of having the same big, pricey software package for everyone, your staff should be able to select smaller and cheaper applications with the functionality that is just right for them.
 
Six tips for companies moving into the Cloud:
 
  • Check out the reputation of the service provider: How long have they been offering cloud services, bearing in mind that size isn't everything; many big companies are piling into the market but don't know what they are doing
  • Security is key. Really understand how secure your data have to be, and ask the vendor how they would solve your security problems
  • Investigate how the cloud provider makes back-up copies of your data, how you can move the data to another provider, and what happens if the provider goes out of business
  • Work hard to get a good service level agreement with clear financial penalties to ensure a good service.
  • Be wary of industry certifications, because they capture just a moment in time. Do your own research on how the vendor is performing
  • Finally, try the service. The beauty of cloud computing is that it's easy to switch on and off. Obviously don't start your cloud adventure with confidential data or mission-critical systems, but if the service works for you, you can expand.
 
If you would like to discuss ‘moving to the Cloud’ please call Marda Associates today on 01633 245000.