It wouldnt be the December edition of Northern Insight without a look forward into next year to predict what the future holds for organisations across the region.
While a year is a long time in the technology world, Googles latest report on the future of cloud computing sets out some pointers on how cloud will continue to shape enterprises of all shapes and sizes.
It will come as no surprise to hear that by 2024, most enterprises will operate multi-cloud environments, with on-premise, off-premise, public, and private cloud models.
Clouds incredible potential can transform organisations helping to develop stronger partner and client chains, cut costs, improve efficiencies and foster collaboration.
But it is not a panacea. Many of the organisations who call us in for help have applied cloud, but simply dropped it on top of existing systems and methods of working, which is a real waste of its potential. It is not surprising that it does not deliver the benefits they were hoping for. It needs careful consideration and effective application, with the help of real experts in private, public and hybrid solutions. That is when it becomes a powerful way to support innovation, improve efficiency, and drive revenue growth.
Boards will back cloud adoption
The next decade will see cloud dominate IT delivery, with more than half of the C-suite respondents in Googles global survey of 1,100 business and IT decision makers believing it will meet at least three quarters of their IT needs by the end of the next decade.
Increased revenue
The same survey showed that 79% of respondents see cloud as a key revenue driver, while 87 percent expect it to become one by 2029. Interestingly, the numbers break down to show that only 83% of UK respondents said the same, which could pan out to see UK businesses missing a trick.
Edge and cloud computing to move closer together
Edge computing, which processes the data near its source, reducing bandwidth requirements and latency, is set to be an increasing feature of cloud solutions. Add Internet of Things (IoT) devices into the mix, and you can see why the use of this powerful combination is predicted to underpin the ever-growing demand for faster, smoother customer experiences.
Security will remain key
As cloud solutions and infrastructures become increasingly complex and multi-faceted, it follows that security will remain a top priority for all organisations looking to guard against vulnerability while balancing accessibility with security. Data needs to be protected not just from hackers, but in order to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation. One thing is certain – attacks will increase in scale, frequency and ingenuity.
Cloud will unlock the potential for artificial intelligence
Clouds ability to handle huge amounts of data makes AI and machine learning (ML) the next logical step in development. Using integrated tools to analyse data, identify patterns and even make decisions opens up technology to assist in every area of business.
Along with the opportunities come the threats
The biggest of these is shadow IT, leading to cloud sprawl. This means the use of IT-related hardware or software, without the sanction – or even the knowledge – of the IT department. With users now very comfortable downloading and using apps and services, the threat could be as simple as a member of staff innocently using their new smartphone to access your systems and data in the course of their work.
When IT departments cannot keep track of cloud instances it leads to cloud sprawl, and ultimately opens up security and storage issues. A recent case in the news highlighted the need for cloud security and vigilance, when a potential vulnerability at a major UK organisation was identified, which left the personal details of thousands of clients exposed.
These and other threats like them can and must be managed. One thing is for certain. If you are a business owner your future success will hinge on your ability to effectively apply cloud technology, and properly regulate cloud services to your users.
Let us help you unlock the benefits of cloud computing the future of your business depends on it.