Cloud computing and Libraries

Cloud computing systems would take the pressure off having to buy all the hardware, software and individual servers for your Library. With cloud computing you only need to load one application which then allows access into a Web-based service which hosts all the programs. These services are stored on remote machines owned by another company. This technology takes the work away from the local computers which now access the cloud computing system's interface software via a Web browser.
Some of the advantages of this system would be:

• Access is possible from anywhere as long as your computer is linked to the Internet. Data is not confined to one user's hard drive or internal network
  


• Costs would be reduced because there wouldn't be the need for the fastest computer with the largest memory. All you need for each terminal is enough processing power to run the middleware, a monitor, keyboard and mouse. The need for a large hard drive has been removed as storage is provided on a remote computer.


• Removes the costs of purchasing software and software licenses for each individual computer. Instead a metered fee would be payed to a cloud computing company.


• If physical space is an issue this is also removed as there is no need for a server on site.


• Money maybe saved due to a reduction in the number of IT support personnal.

While this all sounds convincing there is also potential for problems. Some of the disadvantages maybe:

• Security and privacy.


• Is cloud computing more susceptible to hackers?


• Who owns the data? Does the cloud computing company who provides the actual storage own it or the user or company subscribing?


• Could client access be denied to that client’s data?


• IT maintenance jobs could be lost.
  

I believe cloud computing is something that could become the 'norm' for Libraries in the future. With more clients wanting to be able to access services from where ever they are and the need for reducing costs to provide services this appears to be a way for this to happen.