WOLF Weekly Cloud Sum-up, July 15, 2011

Cloud computing represents a more efficient way for enterprises to procure, consume and manage information technology (IT) resources and applications. Many companies across a broad range of industries have embraced the "cloud" to meet temporary capacity requirements, control costs, address seasonal computing demands, reduced cycle time to implement new systems, launch new services or expand into new markets. Many are taking a conservative and opportunistic approach to cloud computing. Oddly enough, manufacturers have been slower in making the transition to cloud computing despite the fact that the sector led the way in collaboration and exchanges. Over the past 15 years, manufacturers have gone to great lengths to IT-enable their global supply chains by facilitating enterprise connectivity between suppliers and customers. When it comes to cloud computing, however, many are concerned with securing business-critical infrastructure, applications and sensitive corporate data.

Read more about cloud security in a manufacturing industry

5 things to consider before embracing cloud computing

Cloud computing has been building buzz for a while now and is fast becoming the rage. But for all the hype, there are a lot of questions – about its effectiveness and whether it’s right for entrepreneurs. I won’t claim to have all the answers, but here are five things to consider before you begin relying on the cloud.

• Outages 
• Speed 
• Privacy / Security 
• Compatibility 
• Switching platforms 

Costing the cloud: Make the money add up

A basic understanding of the economics driving cloud computing is important, especially given the difficulties in properly costing and comparing the many options open to company IT providers. An initial look at the economics of cloud computing doesn't make its logic clear. Cloud providers use the same basic components as any other large-scale IT system — much the same servers, storage and networks — but have the additional expenses of running their company and are at the end of internet connectivity that doesn't come for free.

Clearing Up 'The Cloud'

Shifting to the cloud may seem overwhelming, but the reality is that the technologies are largely based on traditional network concepts. Although a slight mindset shift may be needed, many of the traditional solutions for managing internal network and infrastructure are incorporated in cloud computing. By implementing the proper monitoring tools, organizations have an opportunity to cut costs and increase efficiency.

Greener, cheaper Cloud not far away

Uncertainty over the electricity-based costs associated with Cloud computing could be a thing of the past thanks to breakthrough research from Swinburne University. Using mathematical algorithms and the results of pulsar survey simulations, the University has begun developing more cost-effective Cloud computing models for IT departments. The project's leader, Professor John Grundy, said the research was initially based on the electricity usage of large scale telescopes; however the next stage will involve applying potential energy savings to business applications.

We hope these short sum-ups on cloud computing are helping you to take a more knowledgeable approach towards moving to the cloud. Stay tuned for more sum-ups on in the forthcoming weeks.

Appreciate if you can add more to this list and help our readers to keep in touch with the Cloud...


Santanu Das
Marketing Evangelist, WOLF Frameworks

NOTE: The views expressed above are purely personal and for informational purposes only. WOLF FRAMEWORKS INDIA PVT. LTD. MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IN THIS SUMMARY. The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.