MIST 7500 - Fall 2013 Executive Summary 3: Hybrid IT

Cloud computing has become the new “hot trend” in the data storage and bandwidth aspect of companies. As the volumes of data and analytics grow, so must a company’s ability to store, access, and use this data effectively. Storing in a central location exposes the company to system outages and slow connection speeds.

Why Cloud Computing?
• Pooling the resources of numerous remote storage locations reduces the risk of bandwidth limitations and increases our ability to access data.
• Pay-per-use can greatly reduce costs.
• Offers increased flexibility to users outside the office.
• With the proper security protocols, it can handle any device (BYOD) and platform safely.
• Reduces the risk of a regional disaster affecting daily operations.

Risks with using the cloud
• When using a fully public cloud service, there is a risk of security breaches.
• Unsure of the physical location of the data storage facility and the security risks involved with the physical systems.
• Too much data access of redundant files could create an avoidable expense that is reduced by centralized storage.

How to overcome these limitations and fully realize the technology
• Use a hybrid system of public and private cloud services.
• We control sensitive content and have fixed costs associated with accessing this data.
• Utilize the speeds, reliability and accessibility of cloud computing without the risk of sensitive data being compromised.

By taking the best features of the classic centralized system (private cloud) and big data storage (public cloud), our company can save money and increase productivity. The storage systems will be managed remotely and on a per-use basis which will reduce our fixed costs. The company will be shielded from outages and will open the door for BYOD flexibility in the future.