Cloud Computing
Cloud computing provides computation, software, data access, and storage services that do not require end-user knowledge of the physical location and configuration of the system that delivers the services. Parallels to this concept can be drawn with the electricity grid, wherein end-users consume power without needing to understand the component devices or infrastructure required to provide the service.
The concept of cloud computing fills a perpetual need of IT: a way to increase capacity or add capabilities on the fly without investing in new infrastructure, training new personnel, or licensing new software. Cloud computing encompasses any subscription-based or pay-per-use service that, in real time over the Internet, extends IT’s existing capabilities.
Changing the platform and environment from a local one to a cloud-based solution can be quite tricky. We often do not fully recognise the dependencies and the implications of such a restructuring. Careful planning and analysis is imperative as critical services may require more complex chains of actions.
Often, a solution appears attractive because it solves current problems. It is not uncommon during the analysis and preparatory stages for migration, new possibilities to emerge. Namely, slight restructuring of the environment, small changes in the workflow and process often result in resolution of most issues. In such cases migration to cloud environment is usually reassessed to ensure that the implementation of new technology is still an improvement to the business and is financially beneficial.
No two people are the same. This is very much true for companies and corporations. All have unique problems that need to be addressed within the context of the current business priorities and environment.
For example a company with 30 staff distributed in 3 locations may have the principle activities of its business in one of these locations while all three branches need to be one virtual office.