In consideration of cloud computing

I came across an article on SearchWinIT.com this week about the many flaws within cloud computing. The piece is the second of a two-part interview in which best-selling author and Windows expert Mark Minasi talked with Christina Torode, senior news writer with SearchWinIT.com, about his thoughts on cloud computing and virtualization.

I wanted to share it with you, as well as a number of my own thoughts on the piece.

First, there has been a historical move from centralized/decentralized computing since the first days of the PC. Minasi talks about this in his second question. He mentions the “in-house/out-house” cycle. With Web apps, we are in the “out-house” mode.

The difference this time around is the performance lines of desktop and Web apps are blurring. We can already offer low cost hosting services with redundancy, clustered services, co-hosting, etc. that appear to be at least as effective as what the “cloud” approach would offer.

The big question: Would there be any REAL bottom line cost savings?

Second, the success of cloud computing completely depends on volume. The service problems that will arise from this model will be many, and difficult to overcome. It’s a question of value.

Cloud services might even be marketed as “free” from some companies. (Microsoft in particular is noted for that kind of “loss leader” approach.) But the real cost will be in the quality of the ongoing support and service.

Minasi makes the comparison of the consultant with 35 clients paying him monthly using MS Small Business Server to the “cloud” model. He can afford to provide premium services to his small, profitable group. The cloud model forces the provider to offer the lowest cost, with lower quality support.

Are we looking at another round of outsourced off-shore support companies, where both cultural and language barriers make for a less than desirable experience for the end user? There are a number of support organizations that make the marketing argument that users will talk to an American support agent.

Microsoft is a few years away from offering their apps in the cloud. What about application compatibility issues? Are all apps going to be required to be 64 bit because Microsoft will only support 64 bit computing in its cloud? What does that do to our cost of converting from 32 bits, rewriting, or waiting for compatible versions of software to meet your needs?

Third, virtualization is an area where economies of scale provide a low cost solution already. There are several service providers that can offer high performance, quality, low-cost, secure virtual private servers.

There may be a break-even point where the size of an application makes it more viable in the cloud, but we are already offering excellent value today. There needs to be a more compelling argument made for the benefits of cloud computing.