Computing Edge

You will be known by your characteristics
In order to truly understand the concept of cloud computing, you need to know some of the basic characteristics that it possesses. This is not so different from other computing innovations in as much as they concentrate on the characterization of the functionality of the technology rather than a subjective view of how effective they might be. There is a very convincing argument to the effect that it is not really necessary to know all the different perspectives on cloud computing in order to understand the system.

However I still believe that if you have the basic knowledge of the things that are supposed to be delivered by cloud computing, then you will be in a very good position to manage the project effectively. As we all know effectiveness is the key element of information technology and once you lose that, you might as well do the processes manually.

The key characteristics
Initially it is important to recognize that cloud computing is expected to bring in a higher level of automation than the ordinary systems of communication between the various sections of an organization. This means that if you find that a lot of your time is spent doing manual trouble shooting or dealing with configuration, then the deal is just not worth it. I have been involved with organizations that have outsourced their information technology under the cloud computing scheme but have ended up with more work than ever before. Clearly this indicates that they made the wrong decision in choosing to go with cloud computing.

The second element that you should look out for when you implement a cloud computing initiative is that there should be a level of virtualization of the processes. That means that the activities should be online. If you find yourself in the position whereby you have to carry out the activities in the local vicinity then you have to recognize that your cloud computing initiative has failed.

The company to which you outsource the functionality must be able to deliver a seamless service via the internet or else you have to review the contract. If they do not have the capacity to do this effectively you might bring forward a suggestion for sharing costs and profits.

Added to this requirement is the essential need to have interred communication with your own in house systems. Make sure that at the very beginning of the relationship these issues are tested and clarified.

A good cloud computing package must only charge you for the services that you use. This is a fundamental advantage of cloud computing and if the other party cannot deliver then you really need to consider canceling the contract. You might find that some providers want you to have a standing charge that covers their fixed costs.

This might be acceptable if they are providing a particularly excellent service but you must insist that there is also an element of variability in the prices depending on how much you engage the service. If it appears that on a long term basis you will not be able to support the contract due to small usage, then you can consider downscaling the operation.