Is Cloud a new technology or a fancy term for the "Internet?"
CMS-Connected is bringing an exciting show this Spring (April 19th) on Web Content Management in the Clouds. The topic got me thinking – about the term Cloud in general. What is it? Why has it become one of the hottest terms today? I recently read an article by Eric Knorr at InfoWorld in which he defines “the cloud” as a metaphor for the Internet. Some will argue that it certainly is a deluxe name for Internet that marketers love to use.
‘Cloud computing’ refers to renting an online software instead of buying it and installing on your computer, and comprises of online file storage, Software as a Service (Saas) and Platform as a Service (PaaS). SaaS is renting a software, PaaS is renting an online server and combined with online file storage, they make for Cloud Computing.
Let’s look at one of the most popular models today: Cloud based SaaS. Many businesses today choose SaaS as a common delivery model – Adobe being one of the top players. Gone are the days when one would have to purchase an Adobe software CD to work with a particular design tool or get the Master CD to access the various design software. With the evolution of Adobe Creative Cloud, it has become easier and affordable to access multiple design tools with one account. However, at the end of the day, you are not buying the Software – you are just able to access it on a month to month basis for a fee. What’s also great about it is that there are no upgrade costs. If a new version releases, you will have access to that. Not only that, the users are also able to sync, store and share the data across multiple devices. Now that is cool!
While there is much good in Cloud based SaaS, one has to trust the service provider for quality service and privacy.
Do you think that "cloud" is just a fancy term for the Internet? Share your comments and thoughts with us. You can also tweet your response to us using #CMSConnected
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