Use of Cloud Computing

The development of the cloud computing technology has seen a high number of businesses embracing cloud computing to store data. With the storage of data being easier with cloud computing, companies are shifting away from physical storage, or otherwise known as local storage. Cloud has become a cheaper option for businesses that do not want to spend a significant amount of money to establish IT infrastructure. Additionally, it offers convenience that a local storage may not provide, and a business can therefore benefit immensely by choosing to use cloud storage.

Unfortunately, an organization may lay-off its IT staff if it moves to using the cloud. As companies continue embracing cloud, certain IT jobs will be automated, leading to massive job losses. The database and network administrator role, for example, will not be required in firms that shift to using the cloud because the technology allows centralized administration and control of the applications and other devices linked to the entire IT system of a company. This is also affecting the staff in companies that sell the IT products. Recently, CISCO downsized by laying-off more than 5,000 members of its staff because it could no longer afford to pay them salaries. CISCO’s case is not a selected case because thousands of IT workers have lost their jobs as organizations shift focus towards cloud computing.

The other issue that is seen with the cloud is that it may take time for one to learn how to use it, which may inconvenience the organization. For an organization that is used to operating the local storage, shifting to using the cloud may mean training of workers, and this may come with additional expenses, and the process can take time. If an organization does not have people with adequate skills to manage the cloud system, it may face challenges performing administration and database management functions.

An organization may still be able to access data when offline if it uses local storage as opposed to the cloud storage. The dependency on the internet connection is a characteristic seen with the latter, and if the connection is unavailable, there is limited chance one would be access to the data. If the connection is lost for long, it may paralyze certain IT operations such as database administration. Therefore, an organization that is considering adopting the cloud computing should examine the risks and opportunities associated with the technology, and make decisions it deems can lead to effective running of the IT operations.