Because we needed another "top" list, I'd love to go through David Linthicum's latest list, "Top 5 Cloud Computing Predictions for 2010."Prediction #1: The rise of cloud computing standards
The whole theme of standards and interoperability was a big topic in 2009, but those discussions were very conceptual, and not really actionable. Some organizations waited on the wayside before adopting a cloud computing solution because standards and interoperability would prevent them from experiencing vendor lock-in. On that note, some have said that BlueLock was a bad name choice because it has a connotation that we would "lock" our clients in. I like to think that BlueLock would make someone think of security, but I guess not. However, our cloud uses VMware virtualization technology, so you can take your VMware stuff and take it wherever you like (as long as it stays VMware) if you decide you aren't a big fan of us. No vendor-lockin here. Back to topic - I can already tell from listening in on some strategic meetings here that interoperability will take on a large role this year for us. I can only guess that we aren't the only cloud computing provider with that on our mind.
Prediction #2: First Major Cloud Computing Outages
This one is only a matter of time. Stuff happens in the cloud. The cloud still involves real people and of course, real technology. Although outages will happen, your provider should make sure that there is a sufficient backup plan in order that will help alleviate those pains. And of course, the second a "big" provider has a "big" mishap, all aim will go to the cloud. However, Linthicum reminds us, "Despite the outages, cloud computing providers will maintain an uptime record that far exceeds that of most on-premise systems, but you won't hear about that in the technology press."
Prediction #3: Microsoft will be relevant in the cloud
Most businesses run Microsoft, so to say that Microsoft will not become a larger cloud player would be silly. Now that they've finally got going on the cloud front, we'll see just how much of an impact they'll make, but we're sure to see them make some sort of splash. However, "Google will continue to dominate small to medium-sized businesses, using its free ad-driven model for delivery of Google Docs and Gmail, with a few larger enterprise deals thrown in."
Prediction #4: Rapid Consolidation of Existing Providers
As cloud computing continues to grow, many of the successful providers will want to expand even more, which will involve buying up the smaller guys. Hence, there will be less small providers and more big - consolidation.
Prediction #5: Rise of Cloud Computing Startups
As if 2009 didn't see enough, there will be more in 2010 as the technology leaves the stage of early adoption and reaches the masses. As consolidation occurs (see prediction #4), market value will increase and more VC-backed startups will sprout up. Think you've seen a lot of "as a services" this year? It won't be the end of it.
Read David's original post here.
Do you have a prediction for the cloud in 2010?
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