Does the Cloud Even Exist?

As an IT leader, how often have you heard “move it to the cloud” in response to mounting pressures to reduce operational costs and increase delivery speed?

Having grown up in an operational IT role, I’m willing to bet you’ve heard that said hundreds of times by now. Here’s my recommendation: The next time you’re asked this question, respond with something cheeky like, “Which one?” After a few moments of uncomfortable silence, break the tension with a more constructive discussion on the merits of using “a cloud” in lieu of “the cloud.”

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About the author

Stanton helps enterprise IT and sourcing leaders rationalize and capitalize on emerging technology opportunities in the context of the global sourcing industry. He brings extensive knowledge of today’s cloud and automation ecosystems, as well as other disruptive trends that are helping to shape and disrupt the business computing landscape. Stanton has been with ISG for more over a decade. During his tenure he has helped clients develop, negotiate and implement cloud infrastructure sourcing strategies, evaluate and select software-as-a-service platforms, identify and implement best-in-class service brokerage models, and assess how the emerging cloud master architecture can be leveraged for competitive advantage. Stanton has also guided a number of leading service providers in the development of next-generation cloud strategies. Stanton is a recognized industry expert, and has been quoted in CIO, Forbes and The Times of London. You can follow Stanton on Twitter: @stantonmjones.