Cloud computing is defined as a modern way of computing that provides the benefits of network infrastructure to optimize gains due to shared computing resources such as servers, applications, networks, etc. The internet and the intranet are the two key network infrastructure components that drive cloud computing.
Though many enterprises have shown an interest in switching to cloud computing, they are often held back by a lack of information regarding the outright benefits they would derive from this switch. Furthermore, Technology consulting experts contend that even those who are aware of the key benefits of cloud computing still face a lack of know-how in evaluating whether cloud computing is viable for them to switch from their traditional on-premise system to cloud computing.
The Key Benefits of Cloud Computing
There are many benefits derived from switching to cloud computing. These benefits include (but are certainly not limited to):
1. Security: Cloud computing allows for your data storage and distribution over many servers that are highly secured by the latest technologies, such as military-grade encryption, automatic updates, versioning and multi-server replication, all of which makes it less likely to experience data loss and theft.
2. Economically Viable: Capital savings from cloud computing(that would otherwise have been expended on buying sophisticated servers, hiring and retaining a technical team of network computing experts, and ensuring that the integrity of complex computing infrastructure is not compromised) makes cloud comparatively advantageous over traditional on-premise computing. Cloud also provides full capacity utilization that results from being able to use and pay for cloud computing on a per need basis. This ensures that there is no waste of computer resources due to resource idleness. Also, effort and time that would have been otherwise wasted in replicating routine and mundane tasks such as data backups, server repairs, and maintenance is saved.
3. Technical Efficiency: Technical efficiency is achieved when technical resources are optimized for the maximum gain possible. When there are no idle computer resources, no loss due to power outages or lack of real-time backup, and no delays in accessing the computer resources due to constraint of location or time, then the computing infrastructure is deemed to have achieved technical efficiency. In contrast to cloud computing, on-premise solutions often fail to achieve this technical efficiency. Cloud computing also enables an enterprise to focus on its critical business needs while outsourcing non- critical functions such as computer infrastructure management.
4. Fewer End-User Constraints: Not all enterprises are adequately resourced. Some enterprises have limited office space and if they do, the space is not adequately prepared for all-time computing, around the clock power supply and 24/7 security. However, such limitations are almost eliminated by using cloud computing, due to the widely distributed infrastructure characterized by remote access.
5. Improved Accessibility: Due to its nature of being a distributed system, cloud computing enables easy access of computer resources from any point wherever and whenever the end-user needs it.
Key factors that should determine your move to Cloud
Choosing to move to the cloud is a decision you need to make after careful consideration of various factors and steps that will ensure you reap maximum benefits from your decision. The following are the important considerations to make before deciding whether or not you (or your organization) should switch to Cloud computing:
1. Assess your business needs and cloud goals: When considering a move to cloud computing, you should first and foremost ask yourself what you are trying to achieve by making the move. Some of the reasons enterprises switch to cloud computing are to enjoy the benefits derived from cloud computing as outlined above. Secondly, you need to ask yourself, in what ways will cloud computing impact your business processes, operations and goals. It is often helpful to seek the insight of a Technology consulting expert to guide you in assessing the likely impact of cloud computing on your business and to assist you in developing a cloud computing strategy.
2. Ascertain whether the desired cloud architecture, technology and interoperability correspond to your business needs: Your business needs must dictate your cloud computing model and the appropriate deployment architecture. There are three key cloud computing models:
• Software as a Service (SaaS) – SaaS refers to a suite of software applications that are delivered via the internet/intranet.
• Platform as a Service (PaaS) – This is a set of tools and services designed to make coding and deploying of software applications quick and efficient.
• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) – The hardware and software that powers the entire cloud computing – servers, storage, networks, operating systems, etc.
There are three key deployment architectures for cloud:
• Private Cloud – Private cloud is accessible by only one client, set up within the client’s premises or other preferred location, and administered mainly via intranet.
• Public Cloud– Public cloud is shared amongst various clients. No single client has control over the entire infrastructure. It is mainly delivered via internet.
• Hybrid Cloud – Hybrid cloud combines features of both private and public clouds.
If none of the three key cloud computing models suit your business needs, you may be better off with your traditional on-premise computing. However, it is almost impossible to find an enterprise whose business needs cannot be met by cloud computing.
3. Conduct a cost-benefit analysis: You need to evaluate the cost you will incur in switching to cloud computing vis-à-vis the cost of retaining the current on-premise system. Furthermore, you need to evaluate the benefits of switching to cloud computing vis-à-vis the current on-premise computing system.
4. Evaluate levels of transparency and control: It is important to evaluate how much transparency and control you expect and how much exclusivity is required. Do you feel confident that with proper security measures, your data can be handled by people outside your enterprise? Cloud computing, depending on your chosen model offers you not only the ability to access and use computing resources but also access crucial data regarding your computing resources, including transaction logs, performance statistics, and back-up reports. You also have the right to set user policy and user access credentials. Thus your needs for transparency and control can easily be addressed by cloud computing, provided that choose appropriate cloud model and competent cloud service provider.
Enterprises opting to switch to cloud computing have an opportunity to derive immense benefits from cloud as highlighted above. Under the guidance of cloud technology consultants, you can identify the likely benefits you will derive from cloud and identify your cloud computing needs, which is very critical in choosing the most appropriate cloud model, cloud deployment architecture and the best cloud service provider.
