Ahead of the Government’s first cloud-based service going live in February, one in ten public sector staff (10 per cent) are already using cloud software on a daily basis. The private sector is also set to increase its use of cloud computing. Currently 16 per cent of firms use the technology with over a quarter (27 per cent) looking to add cloud computing to their existing business model in 2012. In fact 14 per cent of companies have already started their investment programme into new cloud services.
Tony Grace, Chief Operating Officer of Virgin Media Business, said: “This year will see the cloud take off. The Government is ramping up activity and we’re working with them on the G-cloud initiative. But it’s not just the public sector, one in ten businesses have already started investing in cloud technology.
“This should come as no surprise given the benefits that can be gained through cloud technology such as only paying for what you use rather than having to build your infrastructure to cope with peak demand.
“However, the old uncertainties about cloud computing remain. A third of companies told us they are still worried about data management and 28 per cent admitted they had concerns about security. The fact is the biggest issue about accessing and using the cloud to its maximum is ensuring you have a secure and reliable connection.
“Businesses need to carefully choose the right supplier when commuting to the cloud to ensure disruption to services is kept to the absolute minimum. Look for a supplier that will work closely with you to develop a tailored solution that meets your specific needs, and can back it up with highly resilient, secure connectivity”