A recent Zinnov study estimates the global cloud computing market to be over USD 70 billion by 2015. The study also pointed out that India, with its powerful ecosystem of over 1300 independent software vendors (ISVs), 1.4 million developers and more than 11000 system integrators (SIs and Custom software development organizations), is ideally poised to address this growing opportunity.
Cloud computing basically refers to virtual servers being available over the internet. But talk to purists, this definition could get pretty hazy! Cloud computing comes into focus only when you think about what IT always needs: a way to increase capacity or add capabilities on the fly without investing in new infrastructure, training new personnel, or licensing new software. Cloud computing encompasses any subscription-based or pay-per-use service that, in real time over the Internet, extends IT’s existing capabilities.
Exactly what the doctor ordered for the ailing IT industry! With one sweep, cloud computing could reduce costs, risk, and investment while increasing the business’ ability to focus on exploring new markets and increase market share.
Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer is bullish about cloud computing – so much so that all his products are heading for the clouds, while Larry Ellison , Oracle CEO, thinks this is just another fashion-driven step from the computer industry! What do you think? Will cloud computing help SME businesses increase innovation while driving down cost? Or is this the next IT fad?
(Source: Business Week, Infoworld)
