The Role of the Hybrid Cloud

Cloud computing will play a pivotal role in the emerging model of IT. IT might be tempting to simply assume that the traditional siloed data center can be quickly turned into a private cloud. To create a private cloud requires a modular service architecture that provides for self-service, scalability, and flexible workload management. In fact, many different models of cloud computing can be leveraged in a variety of ways to meet a company’s specific requirements, as shown in this list:

Connect a traditional data center to a cloud environment whether it’s public or private. This will be a requirement for ensuring that the cloud supports important line of business (LOB) applications. Companies can decide based on a new event to move a specific workload from a data center into the cloud, such as when demand for resources suddenly spikes.

Connect resources between clouds. In other situations, an IT organization may go this route. Many companies have started their journey to the cloud by signing up for Software as a Service (SaaS), such as customer relationship management (CRM) products like Salesforce.com or SugarCRM. These same companies may use multiple SaaS products and will want to establish connections among these systems. For example, there may be a need to connect CRM with human resource systems and back-office accounting systems.

Implement a process as a service in order to codify relationships with key business partners. This is a newer approach that companies are pursuing with partners who are also leveraging cloud-based services.