Cloud Computing And Globalization: Where Should You Be Looking?

With the advent of Cloud computing, any business can have their IT infrastructure any-where in the world. A lot of competition has emerged and more often than not, users aren't even aware that they are using a Cloud-computing-powered application. Big names have offers that are so interesting that, as a business owner, you may be tempted to opt for them without even considering the potential risks.

What are your challenges as a small/medium enterprise (SME)?

SMEs usually don't (or can't) employ full-time IT staff who would conceive, manage and support their entire IT infrastructure. As technology, as well as user's needs, are increasing so fast, it's becoming harder to keep the pace – moreover, it takes a huge investment to implement the newest feature you require.
While you browse the internet, chances are that you’ve stumbled across some of the marketing messages that the big names in Cloud computing have conceived. And they are tempting, aren't they? Sure they are. They bring a solution to a problem you have: easily accessing a solution (technology and resources) that will streamline your IT needs while still being in your budget range.

The one-size-fits-all approach

But would you want to opt for a Cloud computing service provider located a thousand miles away from you if the same service is provided by a company located near you and who fully understand your specifics? It is true that Cloud computing services are available from almost anywhere in the world. However, these service providers will setup a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. This means that, even if you are a European customer, you’ll still be treated the same way as an Australia-based customer. Don't attempt to talk to your Cloud computing support service about the European-specific rule that you should comply with, as they won't be able to deal with it.

A global issue

A lot of high-level discussion is happening now with regards to cross-border Cloud-computing usage. Due to legal constraints as well as different policies, there are limitations written in fine line that most regular SMEs won't even notice, nor care about. For example, after the 9/11 attacks on America, the U.S Patriot Act came in a quick response: this allows US government entities to request data from their Cloud providers. On the other hand, the European Data Protection Act is in direct conflict with this – preventing European businesses from adopting these services.

Sticking with UK-based Cloud computing provider

If you are a European -based SME and these concerns about privacy and data protection reflect your own, then maybe you should consider a UK-based cloud provider. Not only would that provider be aware of your UK-specific requirements, but you won't necessarily have to deal with international policies and constraints. Finally, you'll get access to the same services all those big names in the Cloud-computing world are offering, with the additional benefit of having a service provider with names you can put a face on. And that's a huge benefit these days.

By: Nick J Davies

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