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Real Life Cloud Implementations: Separating Fiction from Fact
By Erin Harrison, Executive Editor, Cloud Computing
The buzz around cloud computing and cloud-based services is in full throttle, but there is still a lot of talk about the unknown since cloud technology is by and large in its infancy among enterprises.
The cloud services marketplace is full of opportunity but is highly congested and competitive. While customers are understandably excited by the prospect of greater flexibility and lower cost structures, they are confused by the messaging and propositions from the suppliers, according to research firm Current Analysis (News - Alert).
In 2012, virtualization will continue to evolve and spark a variety of other trends, predicts IT analyst firm Gartner. Companies will also continue to increase their use of cloud computing in 2012. According to a report recently published by Cisco Systems (News 
- Alert), cloud-related network traffic is increasing by 66 percent each year. In 2010, there were 130 exabytes of data flowing through cloud networks, and if Cisco’s predictions are correct, by 2015, this will increase to 1.6 zettabytes.
Although these numbers are astounding, IT decision makers are looking for real life cloud implementations to use as their guide in their strategies for this year.
Which methods are tried and true and what are the real risks associated with cloud-based service? As the cloud wave crashes through the IT community, how are IT leaders steering their own cloud implementations? What projects have gone well and what ideas have washed out to sea?
During a Jan. 18 webinar, you can tap into the minds of three IT execs as they walk you through their cloud implementations and lessons learned and tell you what to look for and what to avoid when implementing your own cloud configuration.
Want to learn more about cloud communications? Then be sure to attend the Cloud Communications Expo, collocated with TMC’s ITEXPO East 2012taking place Jan. 31-Feb. 3 2012, in Miami, FL. The Cloud Communications Expo will address a growing need of businesses to integrate and leverage cloud based communications applications, process enhancement techniques, and network based communications interfaces and architectures. To register, click here.
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Erin Harrison is Executive Editor, Strategic Initiatives, for TMC, where she oversees the company's strategic editorial initiatives, including the launch of several new print and online initiatives. She plays an active role in the print publications and TMCnet, covering IP communications, information technology and other related topics. To read more of Erin's articles, please visit her columnist page.
Edited by Carrie Schmelkin
