Cloud computing use restricted by lack of awareness

Cloud computing use restricted by lack of awareness

A lack of awareness of cloud computing is preventing many companies from reaping the benefits on offer.

This is according to a recent study of Irish companies, conducted by iReach on behalf of O2. The research found that 54 per cent of firms are confused by the term cloud computing, which is preventing them from taking the necessary steps to implement the technology.

In addition to a lack of information and awareness, 68 per cent of businesses said that data security is a barrier to cloud adoption, while 39 per cent said that the logistics of integrating cloud computing with their existing systems was preventing them from considering the cloud.

Alan Brown, business director of Telefonica Ireland, which operates the O2 brand, remarked: “In reality, security surrounding most cloud based services is much more rigorous than what the average company could normally afford.

“In addition, cloud services sit very well with existing IT systems because you are not adding any new hardware or software. All you need is a web browser connection.”

If firms intend on shifting a lot of services to the cloud, in addition to the standard internet connection, it will pay off to ensure that the company has a network that is capable of handling large amounts of data, as a network that isn't up to scratch can slow down the service significantly.

Following the survey, Nicola Mortimer, head of ICT and business development at O2, told Experian QAS that cloud computing will offer numerous benefits across all areas of a business. She added: “[Cloud computing] allows them to only pay for services as they use them; it's a utility-based type of computing. That would be a very key aspect for reducing costs within a business.”

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