P1951   Networks for Cloud computing and Software as a Service: Strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for operators

Operator's strengths, gaps and opportunities relating to cloud computing and software-as-a-service

April 2010

Abstract:

This document presents results of the Eurescom P1951 study – Networks for Cloud computing and Software as a Service: Strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for operators – focusing mainly on the second half of the study. By analysing the impact of cloud computing on the overall IT and networking research and industry, we have created a future picture of corporate IT, identified a set of open research problems, and provided a synthetic view of standards under development. We have also studied the need for telecom networks and datacenters to evaluate to meet requirements expressed by cloud service delivery. Then, in light of the results of the activities mentioned above, we have been able to conduct an in-depth analysis of the positioning of Telcos in the cloud service environment, consisting of a SWOT analysis, the proposition of key strategic choices, and the elaboration of recommendations. The cloud service environment appears to be largely favourable to Telcos, which have the potential to play a key role in the operations of cloud infrastructures, add value to existing telecom services, and explore new services. The SWOT analysis we have conducted shows that, globally, the positive factors outweigh the negative factors. Also, while the positive factors clearly include new growth elements, the negative factors are almost all known since the introduction of the Internet and web services. Telcos are really set to play a key role in cloud service delivery, provided that they undertake research, standardization and industrial developments described in this report.

Applicability:

• R&D: researchers, engineers and strategic program planners – use as an input to study the opportunity to launch more ambitious, middle term or long-term R&D projects.

• Business units and subsidiaries: executives, operations engineers and project managers – use as an input to launch exploitation projects leading to services offers or to establish sourcing strategies, leveraging telecom networks and datacenters.