Neil Smyth (@Neil_StatPro), Technology and Marketing Director at StatPro covers the do’s and don’t’s of cloud computing. Neil provides a comparison of traditional hosting versus SaaS and cloud computing, including an interesting look at how one compares to a housing estate and the other to a hotel. He then moves on to providing top tips on selecting a cloud computing vendor, including the key things to look out for such as infrastructure, security, scalability and the business model.

1. The do’s and don’ts of
cloud computing
Presented by Neil Smyth

2. Cloud computing
Terms and definitions
• Cloud what?
• Private, public, hybrid???
• You’re probably already using it
• The StatPro approach
• Why is this exciting?

3. Cloud computing
Terms and definitions
• Why is this exciting?
• innovation
• easier to support
• cost efficient
• promotes software usage

4. 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

5. 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

6. Assessing cloud providers
Are all cloud providers the same?
• 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

7. 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!