Cloud computing has been attracting a lot of attention lately, in both the private and public sectors, as a means of improving efficiency and reducing costs. However, with the rapid development of cloud technologies, and the complexity of the market in terms of service providers and product offerings, it can be difficult for organisations to assess the likely benefits and risks of placing data into any particular cloud environment. Moreover, whereas conventional outsourcing deals are often subject to extensive risk assessment and careful negotiations between the parties, many cloud computing arrangements are set up rapidly and informally, often on the basis of standard ‘click through’ terms of service and privacy policies. Best practice has yet to emerge and most customers (and indeed suppliers) lack the information needed to benchmark cloud service commitments.
This seminar will provide an insight into what is happening now in the cloud computing market based on a recent comparative analysis of contracts for more than 30 cloud services. Practical tips will be provided for managing cloud-related risks and a forecast will be given regarding likely future trends.
