Summary

Cloud computing requires consistent, methodical, and process-oriented thinking. It is not about any specific technology, but rather operational, economic, and business models built on highly standardized and automated IT infrastructures. Success depends on establishing and working within formalized boundaries. These boundaries must be documented and enforced by organizational IT governance. The cloud solution design must support and advance the organization's strategy and goals or it will be deemed a failure. To ensure alignment, the solution architect must thoroughly understand the business or mission goals and strategy. More importantly, the architect and business/mission owner must agree on the key metrics and target values that will define success.