All over the world, in organisations big and small, IT managers and CXOs are in the midst of a computing transformation that is taking the IT world by storm - the 'cloud'. And if you pride yourself on being an IT-savvy, forward-looking organisation, it is time you realised the potential of cloud computing.
For the uninitiated, cloud computing is sourcing IT resources on an a la carte basis - you pay for what you use. In effect, companies make use of third-party service providers to implement their computing needs from internet protocol addresses that are publicly available.
According to Gartner, Inc., the world's leading information technology research and advisory company, cloud computing is "a style of computing where massively scalable IT-related capabilities are provided 'as a service' using Internet technologies to multiple external customers." And cloud computing is potentially big business. The size of cloud computing is expected to increase to US$44 billion worldwide by 2013 according to research company IDC. In 2009, spend on cloud-related technologies, hardware and software was valued at around US$17 billion.*
The current interest in cloud computing is being fueled by the changes in the economy, where businesses are looking at options to optimise resource efficiency and maximise productivity. Cloud computing serves as an ideal alternative for businesses looking to maintain a competitive IT environment. Given the immense interest in the technology, GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK is launching the inaugural GITEX Cloud Confex to provide a dedicated platform for international businesses to discuss the opportunities and benefits of cloud computing.
The Cloud Confex will focus specifically on how this sector will shape the future of the industry in the Middle East. The event will highlight companies at the forefront of cloud computing business models through education, vendor sourcing and collaboration while reviewing, researching and comparing the technologies available in the market today. The computing resources shared through cloud computing could be anything from networks and servers to storage applications and services. One of the main attractions of cloud computing is its capability to provide on-demand IT resources and services as well as a 'pay as you use' pricing model.
In its definition of cloud computing, The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has outlined three cloud computing models: **
1. Private cloud: In this case, internal groups such as business units use resources and services provided by a single internal or external provider.
2. Public cloud: The cloud infrastructure and services are available to the general public. Examples of public clouds include Amazon, Google App Engine and Microsoft Azure. These are already widely used by consumers and small businesses via web browsers and mobile devices.
3. Hybrid cloud: In this model, the cloud infrastructure can be a mix of private and public with organisations choosing which options best suit their IT requirements.
Enterprises in the Middle East are now opening up to the possibilities and potential offered by cloud computing. Research by Brocade*** shows that 40% of enterprises in the Middle East expect to have started the planning and migration to a cloud computing model within the next two years. Key business drivers for doing so include reduced costs, improved business efficiency and enhanced business agility.
As with other transformational technologies, it will take some time for enterprises in the Middle East to make the full move to the cloud. However the adoption is expected to accelerate in the coming years as several companies are already piloting cloud based solutions.
There is no doubt that despite all the queries that cloud computing has risen, the technology will soon be an integral part of a company's ICT infrastructure.
Sources:
*IDC
**The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
***Brocade Market Research
**** Gartner Highlights Key Predictions for IT Organizations and Users in the Middle East: 2009 and Beyond
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About GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK
Website: www.gitex.com
Now in its 30th year, GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK 2010 delivers the ultimate platform for the international ICT industry to meet and conduct business. The event is a definitive gateway not just to the Middle East market but to the wider region.
GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK hosts thousands of key suppliers and market innovators across four core disciplines:
- GITEX Business Solutions: The leading international ICT trade event for enterprise solutions and SMBs for the MENASA region.
- GULFCOMMS: The largest international telecommunications trade event for mobile, fixed IP and satellite.
- Consumer Electronics: The MENASA region's premier international trade event for consumer electronics, entertainment, IT systems, components and peripherals.
New for 2010 - GITEX Global Leaders Summit:
As part of the 30th anniversary celebrations, it is our privilege to announce the GITEX Global Leaders Summit - Inspiring Innovation and Collaboration - taking place on the opening day, 17 October 2010.
GITEX Global Leaders Summit is an exclusive, by invitation only opportunity to network with the region's top decision makers as some of the world's foremost thinkers divulge global insights into today's hottest topics and issues. It offers an exceptional opportunity for collaboration and knowledge sharing for senior executives involved in the evolving ICT sector in the MENA region. Announcements will follow soon about which top names will be speaking this year.
GITEX Global Conferences:
The region's largest dedicated knowledge exchange forum. This key networking platform brings together the crème de la crème of industry experts and ICT professionals under one roof and will feature an unparalleled series of strategic keynotes, seminars and dynamic networking sessions.
New for 2010 - GITEX Cloud Confex - 'Shaping the future of cloud computing in the Middle East'
Introducing an exhibition and conference for cloud computing specialists to showcase their newest services and innovations, compare and research new ideas, garner new partnerships and knowledge share. The event will also discuss the pros and cons of this new IT strategy including dynamic infrastructure, flexibility, cost reductions and increased reliability within a two day dedicated conference.
New for 2010 - GITEX Mobile Apps & Content World:
Mobile Applications and content are in a fierce battle for market share, with mobile operators and manufacturers scrambling to open up their own apps stores. From carrier alliances to apps stores buyouts, the market is evolving rapidly as popular demand for apps to buy and download increases. The opportunities are immense, none more so than within the emerging telecoms market of the Middle East. GITEX Mobile Apps & Content World is a brand new proposition within the biggest and most influential ICT event for the Middle East & Africa region. Providing a high profile, dynamic framework for the mobile applications and entertainment market, this is the first event of its kind in the region. It's an unmissable opportunity to showcase apps and related products/services to a commercially switched-on audience.
ConneXions@GITEX:
A new product location tool that provides serious buyers with the opportunity to identify key companies and products at GITEX 2010.
GITEX Majlis:
This executive business programme for CEOs and other top level executive attendees is designed to ensure that they enjoy a fast-track experience at the show. Keeping their busy schedules in mind, members can enjoy easy pre-completed registration, advance issuance and delivery of the GITEX Majlis Badge and Executive Lounge facilities. These are just a few of the benefits offered to GITEX Majlis members. For more information, please visit www.gitex.com/majlis
GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK Opening Hours
17 October 2010 1pm-7pm
18-20 October 2010 10am-7pm
21 October 2010 10am-5pm
TRADE VISITOR INFORMATION
Online rate* Onsite rate
5 day pass AED 100 AED 120
1 day pass AED 50 AED 60
Admission is for trade and industry professionals only and persons below the age of 18 will not be permitted entry. Consumer Electronics halls will be open to consumers on Tuesday 19 - Thursday 21 October for preview purposes only.
About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
Website: www.dwtc.com
As the organiser of GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK, Dubai World Trade Centre offers more than 31 years' experience of delivering world-class events in the Middle East, providing local, regional and international exhibitors with unmatched expertise and in-depth market knowledge.
Our team organises 18 of the largest and most successful international and regional shows in Middle East, providing an ideal platform for business development in the region. Our commitment to ongoing innovation within the exhibition industry has supported the rapid growth and development of a wide range of business-to-business and business-to-consumer shows, and delivered consistent satisfaction to exhibitors and visitors.
DWTC works the region's leading trade bodies and industry associations to ensure that all conferences deliver full value and are built upon the real needs of their specific sector.
By Jean-Philippe Cossé, Project & Sales Manager, GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK
© Press Release 2010
