Cloud Computing ABCs: B is for Business Benefits (and Risks)

There is a need for deep understanding of the business benefits and risks of cloud computing. From a benefits perspective cloud services provide:

• A simple value proposition
• Easy, fast and low-cost deployments
• A payment system based on usage
• Elastic scalability and improved asset use
• The strength of third-party on-demand capability and efficiency
• Continual system currency and maintenance
• New opportunities for cross-company community collaborations
• Renewed focus on the strategic areas of the IT function

Looking at the risks, which can be minimized with the right approaches, major concerns include: