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Introduction to Cloud Computing
Ian Summerfield

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What is Cloud Computing?
Delivering a Software application(s) to a user over the internet from a
centrally hosted source.
The computer processors are no longer under your desk but in the
internet cloud.
First suggested 44 years ago.
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How we arrived here
ASP – Application Service Provider
Late 1990’s first examples of internet based computing but tech bubble burst and their were a
number of technical limitations.
Broadband
During the early 2000’s the cost of business internet connections fell dramatically with the
introduction of broadband. Now reliable high speed internet connections are standard in
business no matter what the size of the company.
Web 2.0
The way that we interact with the internet has changed dramatically in the past 5 years.
Whether it is networking sites such as Bebo, My Space and Facebook or purchasing music
through iTunes, we all use the internet every day and it has become just another tool in the way
we work, live and play. Cloud Computing is just a part of this bigger, better internet.
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Local Power Generation
Centralised Power Generation
Local Processing
Centralised Processing
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What are the main benefits of cloud computing?
No CAPEX -Pay as you go
Easy adoption – can be purchased by non technical staff
Freedom – web based, access from anywhere
Value – typically 25-50% cheaper than traditional IT
Simplicity – no complex servers or IT infrastructure
Scalability – add or remove users as your business changes
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What can cloud computing bring to my business?
Hold onto cash
Adopt new services with little risk
Fixed budget
Lower costs
No complex set up
Remove reliance on IT staff/contractors
Keep up to date with latest services
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Is it a fad?
There is a lot of hype around Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is happening, it’s “when” not “if”………..
New trends will come but cloud computing is staying
It will be harder to avoid cloud computing than to adopt it
Half of UK SMEs to be in the cloud by 2011
Plans to implement Cloud Computing up by 2/3 in last 15 months
Microsoft are focusing whole business
on Cloud Computing
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What should I look at now?
Hosted CRM – Salesforce.com, Microsoft Dynamics
Hosted Accounts Systems – Sage Online 50
Social Media – LinkedIn
Hosted Desktop – Optim IP Limited
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Optim IP offer
Free copy of National Computer Centre – Cloud Computing Guidelines (£100)
Free Hosted Desktop trial – 14 days
10% off Hosted Desktop service.
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