28-Dec-2010 19:02

'Cloud Computing' v 'On-Premise Solutions...

Thoughts on 'Cloud Computing' v 'On-Premise Solutions'

There may be benefits for increasing usage of cloud computing; however there are important factors to take into consideration before any decision is made…

May I suggest some of the following advantages and disadvantages, the pros and cons of deciding whether to move to ‘Cloud Computing’ or continue with ‘On-Premise Solutions’

The most obvious considerations of Cloud Computing & alternative solutions remain initial cost & investment, continuing cost, security, IT personnel & organisation, and any advantages following specific conversions and modifications.

Possible cloud computing advantages:

1. Reduce expenditure & possibility of larger solution applications

2. Removal of your redundant company servers & ancillary equipment.

3. Possibility to reduce & cut down on staffing levels of IT personnel & expenditure.


Possible cloud computing disadvantages:

1. Important security issues and possible consequences as your data is normally stored (& shared on Cloud) with other companies’ data.

2. Almost total dependence on internet connectivity - if your internet links & broadband ‘goes down’ you will endure serious interruptions.

3. Increased costs over the longer term - rather similar to leasing or renting cars compared to buying vehicles outright.

4. Far more complicated & possibly impractical to enjoy software customisation & upgrades because customisation & upgrades are not normally available or helpful with Cloud Computing.

In summary:

Cloud computing may have excellent advantages for business with limited resources.

It may be helpful too for organisations and offices that can function seamlessly & for long periods without any internet in the (rare but nevertheless possible) situation of internet interruptions and breakdown.

However, ‘on-premise servers’ are better for larger businesses that may use customised systems & homegrown solutions to achieve advantage over their competition. And almost certainly better for businesses with ‘mission-critical’ applications which they cannot afford to be without for any period of time….

Individual businesses need to make their own minds up of course & as ever probably best not to be swayed simply by common usages, newer fads & a ‘follow the herd’ mentality.

Be sensible and do your own due diligence on this, possibly very important, decision…