Cloud Computing Pricing

Do Your Homework On Cost-Effectiveness of Cloud Computing

Another source of confusion with cloud computing can be its pricing. Many supporters of the cloud point to its price as the ultimate incentive. Truly, the cost/benefit analysis of utilizing cloud computing depends on your current investment in IT infrastructure (which is fixed and cannot be recovered). The value of cloud computing through efficiencies and cost reductions is compelling though.

If you just look at the cost of the hardware and cost of the software versus the monthly charge for SaaS, cloud computing doesn't look that attractive... But if you look deeper and take more factors into consideration, it starts to look fairly attractive.

Is Cloud Computing Really Cheaper for Corporations

Just as important as examining the cost of moving to the cloud computing environment versus dedicated servers is your choice of cloud providers. While large-scale cloud providers such as Google and Amazon offer very attractive pricing models, it is important to remember the old adage "you get what you pay for."

Many of these lower priced providers fail to offer the dedicated customer support or flexible solutions that ensure your cloud computing solution is up and running 100% of the time. Additionally, security is a sizable consideration when reviewing an offering from these types of providers.

Researching cloud computing providers and clearly defining your requirements are the keys to ensuring your needs are met—and at a fair price. Flexibility of your cloud provider is key. Working with clients to find the right fit and levels of service so they’re not paying for bells and whistles they don’t need is crucial in the cloud computing environment.