Cloud Computing

Cloud Computing:

Definition, advantages and disadvantages

prepared by

London School of Business & Finance

MBA

London

CONTENTS

Executive summary 3

Introduction 4

Defining Cloud Computing 5

The effects of Cloud Computing on business 8

Associated Press 8

3M 9

Target 11

Summary 12

Advantages and disadvantages of Cloud Computing 12

Conclusion 17

References 19

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Cloud Computing is one of the most discussed trends of modern IT industry. However, official definition given by National Institute of Standards and Technology in January 2011 does not give a clear image of what CC really is. Cloud Computing can be briefly defined as a mix of infrastructure, platform and software provided as a service to businesses, inspired by Web 2.0 technology.

Case studies of three companies show that the main benefits of implementing “the cloud” are cost cutting, faster time-to-market speed, faster development speed, simplified management and planning, etc. However, there is a significant list of disadvantages of using Cloud Computing, such as security, dependency, implementation, transition, and constant requirement of strong Internet connection to operate business.

INTRODUCTION

Cloud Computing is the “hottest” trend in IT industry for the past several years. Though most companies have exact understanding of what it is, no one can even agree on a single definition. Hence, there are 68 definitions on Google, and Wikipedia which is known for summarizing common knowledge, does not have any.

Cloud Computing is being vastly promoted by giants like Microsoft and Google, who are speaking of it like a solution of the future for all sorts of businesses. In this work we will see how companies like Associated Press, 3M and Target implemented cloud systems, and what benefits did they gain. We will also discuss disadvantages of such systems, and why the majority of companies are still reluctant to transit, and use their own hardware instead of...