Submitted by: Submitted by Grigorian
Views: 529
Words: 3636
Pages: 15
Category: Science and Technology
Date Submitted: 01/05/2012 07:15 AM
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...