Misconceptions cloud computing

10 most important misconceptions about cloud computing

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The cloud is no longer the hype that many people thought (or hoped) it was ten years ago. Now it’s here to stay, and uptake by computers – as well as expansion of the scope of offerings on the market has exceeded everyone’s expectations. I can only imagine you would agree. But still there is a large number of prevailing misconceptions about cloud computing that have stubbornly remained with us throughout this evolution. Here is my top ten of misconceptions I hear regularly.

Misconception 1.
Cloud Computing is simply another word for the old Server Based Computing

In the past, ‘dumb’ terminals would be connected to a central mainframe. All computing power was located on a large computer. With Cloud Computing, you can make use of the computing power of hundreds of different computers and integrated applications from software suppliers all over the world.

Misconception 2.
Cloud Computing is unsafe

On average, so-called ‘on-premise’ systems (computers and servers within a business network) are not as safe as systems within a Cloud. This is because there is less control over what is installed over time and what is opened up to the outside world. Cloud suppliers often build the network with a good security policy from the first server.

Misconception 3.
Cloud Computing is not suitable for larger organizations

Software for larger organizations does not need to cost more per user than for smaller organizations. Research shows that 60% of all IT projects get delayed or even fail completely, which incurs costs for (mainly larger) organizations. CIOs of these organizations are increasingly asking for affordable standard alternatives. Flexibility, scalability and availability are high on every CIO’s applications wish list. Some Cloud suppliers offer services to millions of users and have long met these three important requirements. Recently, TNT Post announced that it will transfer its 13,000 workplaces to the Cloud.

Misconceptop 4.
With Cloud Computing, you lose control of your automation

The concept of Cloud Computing often invokes the association with Outsourcing from ICT to an unknown supplier, causing you to lose control over your automation. However, this is an inaccurate picture. By opting for a reliable supplier with proven experience, organizations can ensure that it is always clear where what information of the organization is located, when a backup is made and where it is saved, and how information can or cannot be shared.

Read also: five tips to prevent vendor lock-in with Cloud Computing and Saas.

Misconceoption 5.
It is only suitable for low-end consumer applications

Cloud Computing is indeed widely accepted for consumer applications, but is now also being used by many companies. Especially for separate applications and tools, such as tools for online collaboration and communication, and online backup and storage. When this is combined with a remote workplace and a remote server, 80% of all types of companies can transition to 100% Cloud Computing with the highest availability. And profit from the many efficiency benefits that come with it. Cloud suppliers are ready.

Misconception 6.
Cloud Computing applications cannot be integrated

Cloud Computing applications have at least the same integration options as in-house applications. Moreover, lots of software is re-released in an ASP or Software as a Service license model. Much of this software has standard integration options with the most commonly used applications.

Misconception 7.
You no longer need IT staff with Cloud Computing

Cloud Computing will certainly reduce the need for IT administrators within companies. But that does not mean that you do not need any IT advisor at all. Organizations need to be able to make the right choice for one or multiple Cloud and SaaS suppliers. Integration tools need to be configured. And with new user needs, the most suitable solution needs to be found. Management becomes less important, but support all the more. A good user experience depends on the speed and quality with which support is provided, one of the main aspects of The New Automation. And for that, you need good IT staff or an choose an IT partner that can properly take care of this for the organization.

Misconceoption 8.
Reliability is a problem

Cloud Computing is based on virtualization techniques that have existed for decades and are still widely used by many companies. What is new is the increased speed and reliability of the Internet, which creates new opportunities to make this technology available to every company. Cloud technology has superior availability and reliability that can be guaranteed in Service Level Agreements. Moreover, additional computing power can be added quickly if the current available capacity is insufficient at peak moments.

Misconception 9.
Performance is a problem

Performance is rarely a problem with Cloud Computing, because capacity can easily be added when necessary. Systems and performance are continuously monitored and a good Cloud supplier will respond proactively to an impending shortage on a system. Moreover, with the right Service Level Agreements, companies get uptime guarantees.

Misconception 10.
The Total Cost of Ownership is too high

This is the most common misconception regarding Cloud Computing and, moreover, not true. Cloud Computing should show the financial director of a company savings. Because there is no more need to invest in hardware and software, the migration to a new system is far less expensive and it has a major impact on the availability of cash within the organization. In addition, there are direct hard and soft benefits such as: lower management costs, higher availability, better security, more flexibility and, ultimately, more productivity.