Our Viewpoints

Cloud Computing

THE CLOUD IS CHANGING THE WAY IT WORKS
The cloud is a game changer. In a recent survey of 2,000 CIOs Gartner [i] found that, “over the next five years, almost half of all CIOs expect to operate the majority of their applications and infrastructures via cloud technologies.”
 
The cloud provides a more efficient model for computing that can help you reallocate funds and maximize resources. However, it’s so much more than that. Technology is redefining how consumers interact with businesses and the kinds of services they’re looking for, and cloud computing is an enabling force behind a lot of those changes.
 
Our unique approach to the cloud means that we provide you with an unparalleled ability to make the most of your existing investments and to make the cloud work for your business on your terms. We offer the most comprehensive range of cloud solutions—from private to public—all designed to work together and with the traditional infrastructure already in place in your organization.

Making the Most of Your Existing Investments
Although the cloud is a relatively new model for computing, it shouldn’t require you to invest in all-new infrastructure to take advantage of it. At Microsoft, we’re designing our cloud services so that you can continue to get value from your existing investments—by delivering an end-to-end technology platform for your IT pros and developers and the best productivity experience for your end users.

Making the Cloud Work for Your Business on Your Terms
At Microsoft, we let you take advantage of the cloud on your terms, in whatever way makes the most sense for your business. We don’t present you with an all-or-nothing cloud offering, but rather offer a comprehensive range of enterprise cloud solutions. You can retain maximum control and flexibility with a private cloud. You can benefit from our own operational excellence with our public cloud while you focus your IT organization on competitive differentiation. Or you can combine elements of each to get just the right balance for your business. Whatever you decide, you’ll get enterprise-class security and availability to help minimize your risk.
 

[i] “Reimagining IT: The 2011 CIO Agenda,” Gartner Executive Programs, January 2011, http://www.gartner.com/technology/cio/cioagenda_findings.jsp