Organizations have been quick in adopting cloud computing because of the many benefits it offers. Cloud platforms can be adapted to meet the needs of any size organization without having to purchase expensive equipment and the maintenance issues that come with ownership.
A new study by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) and ISACA the Information Systems Audit and Control Association revealed organizations feel the lack of innovation and security issues will hamper full adoption if things don’t change.
The study was conducted with 250 participants in almost 50 countries around the world with representatives from 15 industry segments including service providers, consultants, integrators and users.
The most glaring result validating the lack of innovation was revealed by 24 percent or almost one in four of survey respondents stating they don’t see any or limited levels of innovation. Regarding the maturity of cloud computing, nearly all the participants said it was far from that goal in fact stating some aspects of the technology was still in its infancy.
“As a first step, we as an industry must still work to provide a clearer definition of what cloud is and how the many innovative and secure services can help positively impact today’s businesses, but we need to start at the top and engage senior management. Cloud needs can no longer be thought of as a technical issue to address, but rather a business asset to embrace,” said J.R. Santos, global research director at CSA.
The study also revealed cloud users don’t have much confidence in government regulations keeping pace with the market, exit strategies, international data privacy and legal issues. Other problems that need to be addressed include: contract lock in, data ownership, longevity, testing and assurance.
Security is an issue which concerns most cloud users especially when international service providers are concerned. Sensitive data can get lost or stolen if cloud data bases are not protected with strict regulations and assurances.
“One of the most interesting findings is that governance issues recur repeatedly on the list of the top 10 concerns. Cloud users recognize the value of this model, but are wrestling with such questions as data ownership, legal issues, contract lock-in, international data privacy and government regulations. As cloud services continue to evolve, it is critical that we work together as an industry to provide insights and recommendations on these issues so that service and solution providers can look to innovate and deliver what the cloud services market needs to advance and what enterprises need to succeed.” said Greg Grocholski, CISA, international president of ISACA. “
The study concludes with an optimistic outlook on the adoption of cloud computing and the eventual innovations that will take place once the market matures.
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