MS claims victory over Google

Microsoft is calling out its main cloud computing competitor, claiming that its chief rival isn't 'all in' when it comes to the cloud, reveals CRN.

The software superpower says the recent unveiling of Microsoft Office 365, its cloud-based productivity suite, is further proof that the company is serious about its cloud plans and a sign that Microsoft is continuing to win the war against Google and its Google Apps cloud communication and collaboration suite as Microsoft and Google battle for cloud computing dominance.

"When customers evaluate us side-by-side we're winning most of the deals [against Google] when it comes to the cloud-based productivity," Tom Rizzo, senior director of Microsoft Online Services said in an interview.

UK IT organisations are leading the way when it comes to cloud adoption, with most CIOs complaining that current IT systems are inflexible, according to the latest research from global consultancy Accenture, states V3.co.uk.

The research found that the chasm between high-performing IT departments and their counterparts globally is widening, with CIOs from the former running IT like a business as well as for the business.

"Our survey found that CIOs at high-performance IT organisations are deeply involved in business outcomes and closely attuned to current and future business needs across the enterprise," says Gary Curtis, Accenture's chief technology strategist.

A growing number of businesses around the world are to take advantage of cloud computing solutions next year, reports the Experian QAS.

This is according to a new study from IT analyst Ovum, which has named cloud computing in the top ten trends for the technology industry in 2011. It forecast the service will record a gradual rise in growth over the course of the 12-month period, building on its current levels of success.

The report stated: "It is no longer a question of whether or not enterprises will use cloud computing, they already are." However, it added the technology is still in its 'early days', meaning both providers and chief information officers need time to make the most of its potential.