The do’s and don’ts of cloud computing

Presented by Neil Smyth

Cloud computing

Terms and definitions

• Cloud what?

• Private, public, hybrid???

• You’re probably already using it

• The StatPro approach

• Why is this exciting?

Cloud computing

Terms and definitions

• Why is this exciting?

• innovation

• easier to support

• cost efficient

• promotes software usage

Software as a service

Look at your requirements and current process

• How responsive to change is your software?

• Are you using all the current functionality?

• New local software is a 3 to 5 year commitment

• Cloud delivery will catch up and overtake

• Vendors without a cloud strategy will disappear

Cloud computing and security

Don’t let security concerns keep you away

• Understand your regulatory requirements

• Encrypted connections and database

• Less data transport during support issues

• Sensitive data kept away from internal access

• Information security is critical to vendors

• Public, private and hybrid clouds

• Clear understanding of the infrastructure

• Look for security audits and certifications

• ISO27001 – SAS70 TypeII (SSAE16)

• Assess the technology - is it real cloud?

• Quick implementation? Single version?

• Ensure the solution can scale with you

• Flexible technology, unlimited compute power

• Check the business model

• Pay as you go, flexible operational cost

Assessing cloud providers

Are all cloud providers the same?

Integrate and play nicely

Avoid storm clouds and be prepared

• Ensure you can integrate with ‘land’ based apps

• Look for web services to help with this

• Manage your new cloud service providers

• The cloud is a major shift in how we access, use

and manage applications, so be prepared!