Cloud Computing brings sustainability to buying and using IT
Computing is changing. Our reliance on the hard drive in our PCs is lessening as we work more and more over a network – the Internet in particular is helping drive these changes. This is helping to make computing greener – less power hungry hardware on the desktop and lower installation and running costs.
The term Cloud Computing has become commonplace. It means that you do not have to install memory and hard disk hungry applications (software) or store information directly on your computer. Instead you get to what you need using a web browser (or a specially designed web interface) on a pay as you need it basis.
We have been able to store e-mails, photographs and documents online for years. Now, web-based software will allow us to use our work-specific software over the Internet.
You only have to look at the success of Google’s applications. Google Earth for instance is so easy to use it has eliminated the need for specialist mapping software and you can view detailed aerial maps for virtually anywhere around the world. Again, the plethora of “apps” that you can use with a smartphone is mind boggling. For many it has meant a deep immersion in Cloud Computing on the move.
Users of Cloud Computing need not have expertise in or control over the technology infrastructure since “the Cloud” includes everything to support them. The concept incorporates Infrastructure as a Service and Software as a Service (SaaS).
Cloud Computing eliminates the need for traditional computer networks and greatly reduces the need for IT support infrastructure since there is no need for software or data to reside locally. This in itself provides significant financial benefits through lower operating costs. But, the financial benefits of the SaaS element can go a long way in helping save money. It can provide a more attractive way of funding new computer systems without major up front investment.
In general terms, it means a faster return on investment – and should mean that the new system will begin saving money as soon as you begin using it because of immediate efficiency improvements. If you need new hardware, this can also be bundled in with SaaS and paid for as you use it rather than in a lump sum. The SaaS vendor will ensure that the hardware will run the software efficiently – this will have been sorted out ahead of installation.
Another benefit of getting your application from the Cloud is flexibility and development of the system. The vendor will see to this as well as provide continuity. Pre-agreed service levels maximise system availability and up time.
The fact that anyone can access what they need anywhere using their existing PCs, laptops or a mobile device such as a smartphone allows much more flexible working. It is much easier to assign work to local-based individuals or contractors since simple web browser software eliminates the need for training or special knowledge of the software.
Because the software and data are hosted separately it allows much easier interoperability. Software and data updates are also straightforward since there is only one central resource. This is important in areas such as street works where legislation continually changes and therefore software needs revising regularly. Users can meanwhile be assured that the provider will be taking advantage of latest IT and software advances so the system is always up to date.
Looking at these benefits, it is clear this is a good way to procure a new computer system. Instead of an immediate heavy drain on the organisation or department budget, the system is paid for using the cash it has saved or created from its use.
Tell us about your experiences with Cloud Computing, good or bad. Email: info@public-sector.co.uk