Emergence of the Cloud Integrator

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While taking advantage of the benefits offered by the different types of clouds through four-tier architecture and smart integration...

While some claim Cloud Computing is the next disruptive technology, others suggest it to be the harbinger of the diminishing role of the Systems Integrator. A closer examination reveals that it is neither. But whatever descriptor is finalized for Cloud Computing, harvesting its benefits will require the guidance and direction of an emerging breed of systems integrator Cloud Integrator.

Cloud Computing De-mystified

There are many definitions for Cloud Computing from credible sources:

Gartner defines cloud computing as a style of computing in which massively scalable IT-related capabilities are provided as a service using Internet technologies to multiple external customers.

Forrester defines cloud computing as a pool of abstracted, highly scalable, and managed compute infrastructure capable of hosting end-customer applications and billed by consumption.
Cloud Computing is a highly automated, readily scalable, on-d

emand computing platform of virtually unlimited processing, storage and ubiquitous connectivity, always available to carry out a task of any size and charged based upon usage. It is certainly poised to be as pervasive a platform as the internet, in the very near future.

The Evolution of Cloud Computing

Advancements in technology, coupled with declining costs, have disrupted traditional business models and a new category of companies has emerged: one that operates mostly over the internet based on clicks (e.g., Amazon, eBay, Google, etc.). The established businesses suddenly found that the development of this channel was critical for their survival against the new breed of companies, and started to offer a combination of bricks and clicks for the convenience of their customers.

The disruption of business models created a higher demand and dependence on IT. Also contributing to this dependence are peaks-and-valleys of IT capacity needs,