Information technology has undergone many revolutions in how applications and data have been delivered to users. Mainframes provided a centralized computation facility where end users consumed resources on a shared basis. Client-server architectures offered flexibility and lowered computing costs while bringing more power to the desktop. Mobile computing introduced the notion of anytime, anywhere application access from a laptop or handheld device.

Now cloud computing offers a new approach that will enable you to deliver IT services on demand.

Virtualisation of the data center is the first step on the path to cloud computing. This is a journey as organizations evolve the way they consume IT services. Cloud computing is not the destination, it is the way to achieve the goal of IT as a Service.

IT as a Service is the transformation of IT to a more business-centric approach, focusing on outcomes such as operational efficiency, competitiveness and rapid response. This means IT shifts from producing IT services to optimizing production and consumption of those services in ways consistent with business requirements. This changes the role of IT from a cost center to a center of strategic value.

Service Management systems and processes based on ITIL (IT Infrastructure Library) must also adapt to this new paradigm. Change, Release and Configuration Management processes need to be supported by increased automation to deliver when services can be deployed in days or hours.

In future IT Services will be delivered from a hybrid cloud, both internal private clouds and service provider public clouds. Business Service Management systems will need to measure and manage service delivery from multiple internal and external providers.

Please contact a Transform ICT Alliance partner to learn more.