It is important not to disregard legacy systems when considering adopting new technology such as cloud computing.
This is according to Malcolm Fry, an independent consultant at Fry Consultants. He says organisations must integrate new technologies with current IT systems and take into consideration the range of controls offered by older technologies instead of simply layering technology.
Fry is a keynote speaker at the ITWeb deliverIT, IT Service Management (ITSM) Summit, which takes place on 20 and 21 September at the Forum, Bryanston. He will address the impact of cloud computing on ITSM.
He notes that everyday tasks like booking flights and e-mail are all supported by cloud technology.
According to Fry, cloud technology is being brought directly to the end-user, which has further implications for the ITSM industry, as direct-to-customer technology gives access to a user base that wants answers instantly.
Fry also points out that cloud computing is fraught with legal implications as well as security concerns such as data location, which raises questions like 'where is my data being stored?'
He gives an example that illustrates the importance of asking service providers this question - a hacking case that received international coverage, involving alleged hacker Gary McKinnon.
“McKinnon, who is a UK resident, hacked into US military computers. His actions, which were enabled through cloud computing, affected another country. What's the relevance? Where must McKinnon be tried? Should he be extradited?” Fry asks.
The outcome of this trial has important implications for cloud computing, he says. It illustrates that cloud computing is a global system with vital impact on governance, he continues.
Fry also notes that cloud service providers must be transparent. “Organisations need to ask questions about security, as well as the legal and financial risks their organisations may face when adopting a cloud computing solution.”
Fry will present on the legal issues organisations need to address and examine the impact of governance on ITSM. He will also provide insights into the concern of legacy in cloud computing.
For more information about the event, please click here.
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