Windows Azure Hybrid Cloud

1 What Is Hybrid IT?

IN THIS CHAPTER:

• Understanding the cloud service models
• Examining key cloud trends
• Learning why you should and shouldn't adopt a cloud solution

Forget for one moment all of the rhetoric you hear today from analysts and researchers about the growth and increased adoption of this thing they call the cloud. Focus instead on you: the individual, the business owner, CIO, IT director, IT professional, or consultant. In particular, focus on some of the challenges you face today. Chances are good you are responsible for the health of your business's IT environment (either directly or indirectly). Maybe you are even accountable for the performance or achievement of the earnings your business is expected to produce. Chances are you are constantly trying to balance day-to-day operational activities with projects or special initiatives.

THE THING THEY CALL THE “CLOUD”

So in your situation, the question you must ask yourself is this: “Will leveraging cloud solutions really assist my organization in achieving its business plans and objectives?” Although it seems obvious, that answer (interestingly enough) is a resounding no. There is no shortage of traditional solutions that provide capabilities to help your organization achieve its business goals. In fact, these solutions have been doing just that for quite some time now. Just because cloud solutions are the new hype, it doesn't leave all existing (or traditional) solutions irrelevant.

That said, it's important to consider ...