Converging Tech

Cloud Computing

What is it?
‘Cloud computing’ covers any service that is delivered over the internet, but the term is more commonly used for storage of data online, so consumers can access it remotely across multiple mobile devices or computers. While the technology has been around in several guises for a while, especially in a professional environment, it is becoming more mainstream because of Apple and its iCloud service, Amazon’s Cloud Drive and Windows Live Sky Drive.

Who’s it for?
The technology is for consumers who own multiple devices, such as a mobile, tablet computer, a home laptop, work PC or IPTV, and want to sync information across them. For businesses, it is useful for those that want large amounts of storage for online operations, with little cost.

Why should you care?
Not just because Steve Jobs and the rest of Silicon Valley do. For businesses it is a form of outsourcing, reducing costs and maintaining standards.

What’s the potential?
If it meets industry expectations in business uptake, then the technology should allow small businesses to become more nimble in their growth.