Develop the Cloud into a Technology Strategy
New framework from Saugatuck explains what cloud development offerings require
Information Management Online, July 15, 2010
July 15, 2010 – Research indicates that more than half of all user firms worldwide plan on using the cloud for core business operations within the next two to three years, according to Saugatuck Technology’s latest survey.
Rampant and accelerating use of cloud-based IT is driving developers to explore and demand new capabilities for cloud-based and hybrid solutions. Saugatuck’s most recent interviews indicate that between 40 and 45 percent of vendors are looking for and experimenting with ways to incorporate cloud offerings and associated development into their business and technology strategies.
The study found that development for the cloud requires knowledge, technologies, resources and a broader ecosystem of partners than most ISVs and developers are prepared to invest in themselves. Few guidelines exist; thus, Saugatuck has created a simple model to provide a starting point. Saugatuck has worked with several hundred ISVs and user development organizations to refine this framework that explains what should be found in core cloud development offerings.
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The cloud development framework is designed as building blocks for successful implementation. The infrastructure services layer includes supporting hardware, software and associated infrastructure upon which development may be executed, and upon which the deployed cloud solution will run. The middleware services layer is the “glue” that cements the development work to be done with the desired application(s), data types and sources, environment and technologies. The development services layer is where the work is done, and according to Saugatuck, most cloud development solutions will migrate the development services layer to the cloud within five years. The application layer consists of native cloud applications and ported cloud applications.
The full report is available free at the Saugatuck website, with further research on the topic to come.
Valerie Valentine is senior editor for Information Management.
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