Advances in Cloud Computing Research, Chapter 2. Cloud Computing in Business

Cloud Computing as an emerging model for delivering information technology services will most likely have major impact in ICT in the years to come. This research looks at the phenomenon of cloud computing from the business viewpoint; we classify common business models applied in cloud computing, discuss major advantages and drawbacks of cloud, and argue whether enterprise management is fully aware of what cloud computing actually is and what measurable benefits it can bring. Further, we present the state of the art in the area of cloud integration in business, and discuss ways in which the development of cloud computing will promote economic growth, increase productivity, and shift the type of jobs and skills required by industry.