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One of the major problems facing large-scale IT
operations is a lack of cohesiveness, or simplicity of
operation. While it might seem as though increased
complexity merely opens the door to additional
possibilities, this isn’t the case when things become
so scattered and complex as to create or foster
miscommunication (or absence thereof ). The main
aim behind the IT consolidation movement was /
is to create more standardization across multiple
platforms, systems, infrastructures and working
bodies so that waste and exorbitant expenditures can
be slashed.
Virtualization has long been associated solely with
cloud computing however it is important to note that
they are not the same thing (though they both tap
into similar technologies). For instance, a traditional
non-cloud architecture model can still utilize or
integrate virtualized elements. To be considered truly
“cloud” you have to have nearly a complete move
toward the centralization of all IT assets, especially
those on the user end of the spectrum. One of the
chief benefts of cloud computing is that it allows a
smaller group of IT professionals to manage a much
larger pool of resources, all from one location.
Before we jump into how cloud computing can assist
in, or even perhaps replace our current notions of
what IT consolidation is, or is capable of, let’s examine
some of the benefts (of IT consolidation). Though the
true benefts of IT consolidation are highly debatable,
there are essentially four principal reasons why it is
preferable:
Streamlined Modifcations / Amendments
By having a solid IT consolidation policy in place it
is much easier to modify existing systems in order
to incorporate newer / better components as well
as correct minor issues without jeopardizing service
delivery.
Unproblematic Management of Assets
A truly consolidated IT organization allows
management to perform their duties in a much
cleaner and more efcient fashion. They are able
to spend more time assessing and meeting goals
and less time attempting to organize existing
infrastructure (or personnel).
Better Exploitation of Resources
If you want to succeed in IT, you must be able to
help deliver upon expectations and perhaps even
bend to facilitate your client’s business model.
Through IT consolidation it is possible to gain a clear
understanding of what resources are available and
how they might be better used (perhaps even in an
unexpected / unconventional, yet highly functional
manner).
Enhanced Security and Data shielding
Of the many concerns facing IT groups in the modern
world, security and the ability to protect data from
breach or attack has to be at the top of the list. Most
of the data and systems that IT is charged with
utilizing and protecting are often vital / crucial to the
success of the businesses they service; in other words,
a security breach could very well lead to downtime,
which is the same thing as lost
profts. IT consolidation can
not only help identify potential
risks in this regard, it can also
help put measures in place to
combat such actions as well.
In many ways, cloud
computing is as much another
form of IT consolidation as it
is a new approach to IT and
computing / networking.
This is largely because cloud
computing, by its very nature,
is concerned with the centralization of assets, which
basically requires that (at some point) a complete
“inventory” be taken, and a strict organization of
assets be initiated. In this way, establishing or
transitioning to a cloud infrastructure is in many
ways adhering to the four concepts listed above.
For example, cloud computing allows for the
establishment of much cleaner, accessible and more
direct management of all IT resources from one
central location, which should more than satisfy any
requirements needed for successful IT consolidation.
Additionally, methodology frameworks like ITIL can
be leverage to provide additional support toward
establishing a cloud infrastructure (in terms of
both the infrastructure itself as well as the micro-
IT consolidation
Through Cloud
Computing
management of personnel).
This is because many of the
components found embedded
in various individual cloud
services are likely to have been
developed in a traditional IT
environment utilizing ITIL,
for example. Aside from any
implications concerning how
ITIL might be used to “build a
better cloud”, it is still one of the
leading technical certifcations
that IT professionals can attain.
Additionally, it should be noted that ITIL is a perfect
refection of the wisdom and research of countless
respected IT gurus; it should go without saying that
if you want to make a mark in any particular industry,
it’s probably best to study what the “greats” have to
impart upon you, so to speak.
While IT consolidation should always be considered
to be a step in a positive direction, we should keep
our minds open to the possibilities intrinsic to cloud
computing, as it is capable of achieving nearly the
same ends (with perhaps even greater benefts).
Given the fact that there is currently a big industry-
wide push toward cloud computing, it is advisable
that careful thought be given as to how your
organization is planning to adopt and take advantage
of cloud technologies.
WilliamManning