Cloud Computing

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Technology continuously attempts to re-invent and re-define itself nowadays. It is developing at a very fast pace globally, and is taking over the way people live their lives every day. When you think back to what computers use to be when they were first invented, to what they are now, it really is remarkable. When I think back to my first computer, key words/phrases that jump out to me are: AOL, dial-up, big bulky computers, long loading times. Those days are long gone now with consistent new software and technology updates. Almost every household owns a computer or a device that can gain internet access. In addition, there are also many locations that offer free WI-FI access to connect. This era has become so technology driven. This is where new technology comes in and re-invents the wheel once again. Cloud computing has been developed to revolutionize the way of technology and IT systems. So, what is cloud computing? Wikipedia defines it as “the delivery of computing as a service rather than a product, whereby shared resources, software, and information are provided to computers and other devices as a utility (like the electricity grid) over a network (typically the Internet).”Cloud computing proves to be more cost-effective and easier to use for many businesses.

Chapter 18 in CIO Leadership for Cities and Countries: Emerging Trends and Practices by Alan Shark, (Cleverley, 2009) gives the introduction of cloud computing and what it has to offer as software as a service (SaaS) in government and IT operations. Cleverley goes on to explain the key points for cloud computing. He gives details on how it can “help to enable rapid innovation for applications, services and service delivery (181).” In addition, he showcases how it ca...

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...ways striving to be positive for us. 311 was a great innovation for social media that many rallied around. Cloud computing could be a revolutionary SaaS for government agencies looking to save costs and become more efficient and serve the public quality service. Organizations should weigh the pros and cons first and evaluate if those risks are worth taking for the business. If cloud computing is the right fit and the right choice, then the pros might outweigh the cons, and could prove very successful.

Works Cited

1. Cleverley, Mark. "Chapter 18: Cloud Computing." CIO Leadership for Cities and Counties: Emerging Trends and Practices. By Alan R. Shark, D.P.A. Washington, DC: Public Technology Institute, 2009. Pages 181-87. Print.

2. "Cloud Computing." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Web. 26 Sept. 2011. .

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