Computersight -

Cloud computing is fast reshaping the information technology (IT) landscape. In this article, the author outlines the road ahead for cloud computing in the public sector. Then, he offers ten predictions for the cloud-enabled future of government IT.

Cloud computing is poised to become one of the most important and fundamental shifts in how computing is consumed and used. Forecasts show that government will play a lead role in adopting cloud computing – for data storage, applications, and processing power, as IT executives seek to maximize their returns on limited procurement budgets in these challenging economic times. After an overview of the cloud computing concept, this article explores the security issues facing public sector use of cloud computing and looks to the risk and benefits of shifting to cloud-based models. It concludes with an analysis of the challenges that lie ahead for government use of cloud resources.

Cloud computing will become a significant part of the $3.4 trillion information technology marketplace, and the public sector will be an important driver of cloud spending and penetration. This article examines the benefits of cloud computing for the public sector and the efforts underway in the United States, under the Obama Administration and the first-ever Chief Information Officer for the federal government, Vivek Kundra. We could well see the development of a new model for information technology delivery, usage, and spending.

Cloud computing is "the phrase du jour" in the corporate and governmental technology markets today. The "free" aspects of the cloud model may indeed revolutionize how government IT operates.