IT and business leaders need to increase cloud knowledge

Understanding is the key to success in many areas of business – especially when it comes to the uptake of new technologies.

The cloud is just one of these technologies where success is required, given the advantages of effectively utilising the platforms. To succeed in the cloud, IT leaders and senior managers in a company need to better understand the benefits and challenges of the platforms, and the most appropriate investments. 

This article will explore the current state of cloud understanding within businesses and the most effective implementations to pursue.

The knowledge barrier

It's not surprising to find a substantial knowledge barrier for a new technology or platform, especially given the often confusing coverage of exactly what it offers.

Cloud-based services have certainly faced this issue, and a recent survey of UK SMEs by YouGov has uncovered the primary understanding barriers.

Of 529 survey respondents, a lack of knowledge, privacy and security concerns rated at the top of the concerns list.

Let's explore the five key barriers that are affecting cloud uptake among businesses:

1. Lack of knowledge: This is the most general, essentially a lack of understanding of exactly what cloud services provide. This is the first barrier to implementation that needs to be overcome, and also the most pertinent issue.

Nearly half (46 per cent) of survey respondents explained that this was their key challenge with a cloud transition.

2. Security/Privacy: Rating second on the list of barriers with 28 per cent, this is another critical area that's a common subject of misconception.

The cloud doesn't actually mean reduced security and privacy, and in many cases can actually offer improvements. For example, with a vendor running cloud operations services are monitored around the clock.

3. Connectivity/Access: Cloud platforms are hosted online, and usually offsite. This is so they can be operated out of data centres and scaled when necessary.

This may lead to access concerns, but these are unfounded. Data centres are designed to remain online even during blackouts, ensuring a company can always access the required services. A substantial 21 per cent stated this as a key issue.

4. Reliability: Similar to the above point, and coming in at 21 per cent, is reliability. This is how the cloud services operate day to day, and whether there are frequent issues. Obviously if businesses are moving into the cloud they'll want stability assurances.

Reliability isn't an issue, as services are often running on the most capable hardware, and dedicate staff constantly assess services.

5. Speed of access: Ranking as the fifth key issue with 19 per cent, speed of access is dependant on the internet connection of the business. While not so important when it comes to cloud-based file storage, it's critical when running a virtual office.

To ensure speed is never an issue, businesses should ensure internet connections are a top priority.

A cloud implementation could be difficult to put in place, but only if it's managed incorrectly by the business.

If IT and business leaders understand which technologies are likely to be most useful, a cloud effort faces a higher chance of success.

Of course, this requires another consideration – are there certain technologies that need to be considered?

What implementations should businesses pursue?

Businesses should choose cloud technologies that are known to be effective, and studies such as the YouGov report have also detailed where companies are placing cloud focus.

A significant 28 per cent of respondents said collaboration tools were the primary focus, new communication services to make it easy to work seamlessly whether at home or in the office.

File storage and back up followed with 20 per cent. These technologies make it easy to back up critical files and documents offsite on a cloud server, where they're kept secure in the event of an onsite hardware failure.

These are just two of the possible technology implementations, but they're certainly capable of showcasing the power of a cloud implementation, and overcoming business prejudices about the capabilities of a cloud platform.

The top 3 IT security failures

IT security is currently a hot topic among organisations, with data breaches continuing to proliferate across the globe, causing significant financial and reputation damage.

In fact, 1.5 million cyber attacks were logged last year in the US alone by IBM. What's more, the research found companies experienced an average of 16,856 attacks per year. Many of these attacks are unsuccessful, but the statistic serves to paint a troubling view of cyber security.

As with any problem, the solution lies in understanding – and this is especially true in regards to IT security. When organisations are aware of the various threats, it becomes easier to manage risk.

Here are the top three IT security failures and the necessary approaches to cut down on the danger of breaches – regardless of the type or size of an organisation.

1) Misconfigured systems

It's common to believe most data breaches occur due to outside attackers, malicious groups specifically targeting a particular business.

These do make up a percentage of the reason for data breaches, but misconfigured systems and applications actually take the lead as the most common causes. In another IBM study based on 2013 attacks, 42 per cent of all breaches were due to this reason.

These breaches can occur in both small and large organisations, and require diligence to prevent them from happening.

Frequent spot checks of applications and systems are an excellent way to get started, with personnel investigating potential errors or weak points.

2) End user error

This next security failure is another that may not seem to be common, but it accounts for 31 per cent of breaches in the IBM study. These types of failure are those where an individual causes the breach, either with intent or inadvertently.

It's going to be difficult for a business to prevent purposeful data breaches from occurring, but there are ways to reduce the likelihood of an accidental breach.

For example, growing what's called a "culture of security" is one of the more effective measures. This involves training staff on the dangers of data breaches, and how these events can impact not just the company but also their individual productivity.

3) Targeted attacks

Finally, the cause that many may believe is the most common actually only causes 6 per cent of breaches. These are targeted attacks designed from the outset to either cause damage to the IT infrastructure of a business or obtain sensitive information.

Protecting against targeted attacks by an individual or group is difficult, and requires a combination of factors. One of these is a comprehensive security system that's constantly updated and upgraded.

Secondly, a strong security culture and awareness among staff. This is key, as outside attackers may seek to gain access to the organisation through targeted phishing emails designed to extract information or similar method.

Developing the right mindset

Security systems are a necessary step, but they're certainly not the only one. Organisations of all sizes need to know that data breaches can occur due to a number of reasons. The question is, what can these companies do?

A strong approach is the use of a framework such as SABSA, a methodology for developing security architectures within companies. Essentially, SABSA guides the development of risk and opportunity focused architectures at the enterprise and solutions level.

It can also prove useful for aligning and integrating security and risk management into IT architecture processes. By taking the time to collate these processes, organisations can effect more comprehensive security strategies.

To start taking advantage of SABSA, get in touch with the ALC Training team to find out where the necessary certifications can be delivered.

Digital economy changing technology spending and jobs focus

Much of the focus of technological change may appear to lie in the US and Asia, but it's rapidly impacting organisations in Australia and New Zealand. 

The move to digital business is a substantial one, and will continue to have resounding effects throughout organisations across the globe.

We've already taken a look at the skills necessary for digital business success, but what are some of the other effects of this tectonic IT shift?

If there's one thing that's a certainty with IT development, it's the need for effective IT governance and change management.

This article will take a look at how the shift to digital business is impacting technology spending, and what's happening to the job market.

A shift in technology spending

Digital business is causing a massive change in spending, with expenditure on technology products and services predicted to reach to nearly AU$78.7 billion in Australia in 2015. Gartner outlined this spending growth in a recent report exploring digital business.

It's not just Australia set to experience this shift, with New Zealand also about to see spending reach nearly NZ$11.6 billion. Across the globe, spending will reach US$3.9 trillion by the end of next year.

Gartner claims that the majority of this spending is stemming from a rush to transition into digital business.

At a Gartner Symposium in November, Peter Sondergaard, a senior vice president at Gartner, explained the shift in IT spending. He also detailed exactly what organisations need to do in order to effectively handle the change.

"Digital startups sit inside your own organisation, in your marketing department, in HR, in logistics and in sales. Your business units are acting as technology startups."

"Australia and New Zealand are increasingly known for creative and design expertise, with leading global vendors looking here to make acquisitions."

He finished by explaining that other businesses need to tap into this "digital startup" way of thinking, and use it as a competitive advantage.

How is digital business changing jobs?

Any substantial shift in an industry is certainly going to impact the jobs market, and this can clearly be seen in the digital transition.

Gartner explained that by 2018, digital businesses will acquire 50 per cent fewer process workers. Digital jobs, on the other hand, are set to see a 500 per cent boost as a result of digital business demand.

It's going to be important for organisations to be acutely aware of such massive changes. What's more, jobs are further set to see changes over the next few years.

Current favourable skills: Right now, mobile, user experience and data sciences were noted as the key skills to have, and the ones that CIOs were needing to hire or outsource for.

Skills in three years: In three years time, this will transition to smart machines, robotics and automated judgement. Such a shift highlights the growing role of robotics across a number of fields.

In seven years: Following this transition, Gartner predicts a surge in the number of specialised digital jobs, which include integration specialists, regulatory analysts and risk professionals.

Preparing for change

These digital business transitions may appear daunting, but it's important for organisations to focus on the near future in order to remain ahead of curve.

"You must build talent for the digital organisation of 2020 now. Not just the digital technology organisation, but the whole enterprise," Mr Sondergaard said.

Neglecting to prepare for change could mean companies are left playing catch-up over the next few years – something which needs to be avoided.

Capable project management practices could prove essential here, especially given the adaptability to a number of organisations. Using PRINCE2, a project management methodology, is likely to be one of the most effective steps.

Get in touch with ALC Training today, a provider of PRINCE2 and other leading frameworks, to find out more.

The value of a data-driven approach

Data has the capability to drive businesses forward, providing valuable insight and opportunities for organisations.

Usage is set to see massive growth over the next few years, and the time is now for companies to begin planning an implementation.

In fact, data production is set to be 44 times greater in 2020 than 2009, according to research from CSC. This certainly highlights the speed at which the industry is moving, and the necessity of acting sooner, rather than later.

Failure to consider the benefits of data could mean businesses are left behind as competitors take advantage of useful information.

By using data with the right tools, people and intent, organisations can drive success across a number of areas within the company. For example, by better predicting how different trends impact the business.

Of course, there are a number of challenges that need to be addressed prior to jumping on board.

The benefits and challenges of data

Access to data means it's easier for companies to analyse their particular market, especially when it comes to revealing new insights.

The applications of increased data access are broad, and it means the information can be used by many sectors. For example, a medical institution may take advantage of data to better understand a particular disease, while a supermarket chain could see what products perform well.

If managed correctly, data can also be deployed without interfering with standard business operations. However, there are still challenges.

In a Bain and Company survey, the organisation found that 56 per cent of executive respondents reported they were not up to the challenge of identifying and prioritising relevant insights.

The company explained the required business approach: "Successful analytics teams build those capabilities by blending data, technical and business talent.

The company outlined the required business approach, stating that successful analytics teams blended data, technical and business talent to achieve results.

Security is another key area that requires attention, as increased data access could leave a business with a higher chance of important information leaking – whether or not it's intentional. It's here where a focus on IT security is necessary.

US Department of Energy deploys data-centric technologies

The US Department of Energy has recently recognised the value of data, and adopted a "data centric" approach with IBM. The government department awarded two contracts to develop and subsequently deliver advanced super computing systems focused on data.

According to IBM, these systems could not have come at a better time for the department, as the world is now generating over 2.5 billion gigabytes of data every day.

Managing and analysing this information requires the appropriate systems, which IBM was capable of providing.

Through the use of the data centric approach to architecture, a system pioneered by IBM researchers, the Department of Energy can better manage and effectively utilise relevant information.

The value of project management

As data continues to grow as a key consideration for businesses, it's essential to utilise effective management. Often, a framework such as PRINCE2 is the best course of action.

This methodology, which is taught to employees of a company via a series of courses, provides the necessary knowledge to effectively handle a large business transition, such as a shift to increased data usage.

Once in place, the company can scale operations to take advantage of data, using the more detailed information to benefit operations.

To start the PRINCE2 certification process, it's a good idea to speak to a professional from a leading provider, such as ALC Training.

It's not just government departments that can use data, however, as companies of all sizes can benefit from increased access to information.

Looking ahead, it's going to become ever-more important to consider the value of data implementation as production increases.

Securing mobile devices in a changing threat landscape

Mobile devices are becoming increasingly critical for business operations throughout both small and large organisations. Of course, with an increased uptake comes greater security risk – something that requires attention.

This article will take a look at the use of mobile devices within businesses and potential IT security risks as the threat landscape continues to change.

The growth of mobile

Smartphones have become an essential tool for businesses, growing to rival even the laptop and desktop in terms of necessity. With the modern smartphone, employees are able to stay in touch whilst on the road, share documents and photos from anywhere and operate remotely with a greater degree of freedom.

Simultaneously, tablets are offering robust computing experiences with a high degree of mobility, further negating the need for larger computers.

For many businesses, these tools represent a significant overhaul of traditional operations and this subsequently opens the door to new security risks.

It's essential that companies take all necessary actions to cut down on the chance of security breaches.

Mobile security risks

Mobile malware is growing at a faster pace than last year, according to the TrendLabs 1Q 2014 Security Roundup report from Trend Micro. The number of mobile apps at high risk of malware infection reached two million in this quarter alone.

The company explained that cyber criminal demand for malicious tools and services could be a primary driver of infection growth.

Organisations have a significant challenge ahead when dealing with smartphone security, as attacks can come from insecure applications installed off the internet. These apps could even be installed by staff unaware of the dangers.

However, strategies do exist for mitigating mobile threats, but they could involve a significant rethinking of security within the organisation.

There are two options for handling mobile device security. One is mobile application management (MAM), which involves the company securing only company-specific applications on a device, and the other is mobile device management (MDM). This process differs significantly, involving a company taking control of the entire device and securing every aspect.

While it would appear to be the most secure option, growth of other trends such as bring-your-own-device (BYOD) has meant staff are using their own smartphones – and companies cannot manage every aspect of an employee-owned phone.

As different security threats manifest themselves in the near future, staying on top of data protection for employees will need to remain a top priority. Of course, it's also going to be increasingly important to ensure that customers are safe from potential security threats.

A consequence of failing to deal with proper security is often reputation damage from losing data, and potentially a struggle to return to normal operations.

Any sort of push into mobile requires appropriate security consideration, and the necessary methodologies to deliver cohesive security solutions.

One of these solutions, SABSA, is comprehensive, and relatively easy to implement within an organisation.

Utilising SABSA

SABSA can play a critical role in the security of organisations, as it's a best practice method used by leading organisations across the globe.

Once IT staff have SABSA training, they're capable of ensuring security needs are delivered and subsequently supported.

For organisations wanting to find out more about SABSA, as well as other useful IT frameworks, speak to ALC Training today. Courses can be delivered to all major cities within Australia, as well as other key locations throughout the Asia Pacific and across the globe.

Taking the time to focus on security now is certainly preferable to dealing with the fallout of a significantly damaging security breach.

Third platform growth and changing data centres

Data centres are the backbone of modern IT infrastructure, responsible for the deployment of cloud platforms, video conferencing and online services.

The number of centres has grown in recent years, driven by the ever-increasing demand for infrastructure. In fact, the most recent IBISWorld snapshot found that Australian data centre growth from 2010-15 stood at 9.1 per cent, and revenue at $601 million.

This isn't taking into account the growth of data centres in other countries across the globe, where expansion is higher still. Developing economies are seeing rapid uptake of IT services, following the lead of western nations that adopted the new technologies in recent years.

However, there could be a limit on this growth, if new third platform predictions from the International Data Corporation (IDC) are to be believed.

What is the third platform?

The third platform of IT is a term that groups together cloud computing, mobile technologies, Big Data and social endeavours into what's set to be the next stage of IT operations.

The IDC claims that this platform is where IT is heading over the next few years, succeeding earlier growth in the first two platforms: data centres and internet technology. Third platform growth is predicted to impact both IT providers and businesses.

How is it impacting data centres?

It's also set to impact data centre expansion, and is actually having an effect now. The IDC estimated in a November 2014 report that the total number of global data centres would peak at 8.6 million in 2017, and subsequently decline slowly.

A drop off in the number of data centre server rooms and internal server closets is predicted to lead the decline, with standard data centres remaining largely unaffected. These are commonly the facilities run by companies to provide new cloud services.

Growth of these more standard data centres will result in space increasing globally from 1.58 billion square feet in 2013 to 1.94 billion square feet in 2018.

This shift from onsite IT service management to hosted alternatives will mean a change in provider expectations, as companies seek consistent data centre services. This is those that can scale to the needs of the business and reliably deliver services.

"Over the next five years, a majority of organisations will stop managing their own infrastructure," said Richard L Villars, a vice president at the IDC.

"They will make greater use of on-premise and hosted managed services for their existing IT assets, and turn to dedicated and shared cloud offerings in service provider data centers for new services."

He went on to explain how providers will rapidly begin to grow their data centre operations, remodelling, building and acquiring new facilities to meet demand.

Third platform growth is dependant on larger data centres, as many companies will be unable to manage cloud platforms onsite.

As use of the third platform grows, smaller data centre setups within companies will decline.

Shifting to a new mode of operations

The third platform of IT represents a turnaround from traditional IT operations, and coupled with data centre changes businesses will need to prepare to implement the new services.

One of the biggest changes is certainly going to be the shift in how services are acquired and managed, as providers take over the brunt of data centre operations.

Shifting to this new mode of operations may seem difficult, but it can be made substantially easier with the use of a capable framework, such as PRINCE2 from ALC Training.

This framework means it's simple for a company to institute a large change, and manage the entire process – something that's often difficult to achieve using traditional project management tools.

To find out where PRINCE2 courses are available, and the necessary steps to gain certification, speak to the expert team at ALC Training today.

Bimodal IT necessary for digital business success

Few other sectors can have the same transformative effects on businesses as IT, especially as the technologies continue to advance year after year.

The influx of technology into organisations across the globe is driving digital business – a new mode of operations that "blurs the line the between the digital and the physical worlds," according to research organisation Gartner.

"Digital business promises to usher in an unprecedented convergence of people, business, and things that disrupts existing business models."

To ensure success in this new age of operations, companies will need to turn to bimodal IT operations.

What is bimodal IT?

Bimodal IT is basically the concept of utilising two different IT methodologies in the same environment. For example, the "traditional IT" team handles the day-to-day operations of testing and deploying correctly, while an "agile IT" team is focused on change and adapting to an evolving IT landscape.

Pushing into digital operations

Digital operations offer unparalleled opportunities for business success across a number of areas including e-commerce, marketing, new analytical tools and greater interactions with customers. This is a revolution, and something that continues to change how businesses connect and collaborate.

With a global population of over seven billion people and around 35 billion devices constantly communicating and relaying information across the globe every day, businesses are stepping into a digital age.

Focusing on digital operations will mean access to new customers, relevant business data and the ability to drive operational efficiencies.

Of course, there are a number of factors that need to be considered before organisations can push into the digital age.

The need for bimodal IT

Companies can't simply rush into this new mode of IT however, as doing so without proper preparation could lead to unsuccessful implementation. In turn, this could lead to less than desirable results.

Bimodal IT is the key to digital business success, as it can prove instrumental in developing the speed and agility required by an organisation to meet digital challenges. Of course, companies also need to ensure operations are solid and fluid.

In a new report, researchers from Gartner explained that while business leaders can't transform companies into digital startups, they can move into bimodal IT operations.

"Forty-five per cent of CIOs state they currently have a fast mode of operation, and we predict that 75 per cent of IT organisations will be bi-modal in some way by 2017," said Peter Sondergaard, senior vice president at Gartner.

Embracing risk

Risk certainly plays a significant role in startups, but it's often something larger organisations would rather avoid. However, it's unavoidable in digital operations, and companies will certainly experience risk to some degree.

"In digital business, you must change your relationship with risk. Digital risk is not something to mitigate. Instead, embrace risk. Taking risk is a conscious leadership decision," said Tina Nunno, a vice president and Gartner Fellow. 

She explained that focusing on what risks to take is important, and ignoring them completely is "tragic".

This will certainly go against traditional practices, but it's something that can provide innumerable benefits.

Managing IT operations

Digital operations are a new way of approaching business, and certainly one that requires appropriate focus. Given the advantages over traditional modes of operation it's necessary for organisations to consider the benefits of a digital shift.

Project management can prove essential during the transformation, helping to guide the company along a predetermined path to success. A framework such as PRINCE2, which has been designed specifically for project management, can ensure that any digital endeavour is implemented correctly.

On the other hand, ITIL, and IT service management frameworks, can help companies to manage digital business operations.

Whatever the framework, whether ITIL or PRINCE2, it's a good idea to speak to the experts at ALC Training. ALC can deliver courses throughout the Asia Pacific, including key cities in Australia such as Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Perth.

What’s involved in Business Analysis Foundation?

Modern IT departments need to effectively interact and engage with the business side of operations, especially as the use of IT grows within small and large organisations. 

Business analysts certainly understand the need for IT, and the associated problems and opportunities that information technology can offer. In turn, this means they're able to recommend solutions and strategies, defining and validating a project at the earliest possible stage.

Regardless of whether or not the role of a business analyst is defined within the project, it's important for key team members to be versed in the techniques and necessary tools to bring about change.

With the right certification, an organisation can grow a capable team of business analysts. These staff can act as translators and liaisons between stakeholders, so as to communicate requirements for change to business processes.

The Business Analysis Foundation course is especially useful, and companies and business leaders need to consider it.

Understanding Business Analysis

This is the practice of enabling change within an organisation, chiefly by defining needs and recommending solutions. Often, these are solutions capable of delivering value to stakeholders.

The business analyst role, which includes systems analysts and requirements engineers, relies on business analysis skills for success. These are agents of change within a company, using disciplined approaches for introducing and managing change within organisations – regardless of their size and type.

These experts use analysis to identify and articulate the need for change and subsequently facilitate it. This expertise and knowledge is especially useful when leading a company through unchartered territory in order to get to the desired destination.

Essentially, a business analyst can prove to be an essential asset to an organisation, ensuring companies can improve the way business is conducted. 

"The value of business analysis is in realisation of benefits, avoidance of cost, identification of new opportunities, understanding of required capabilities and modelling the organisation," The International Institute of Business Analysis website explained.

Business Analysis Foundation

ALC Training offer a comprehensive course in the foundations of Business Analysis. This details a number of categories necessary to develop a better understanding of Business Analysis.

Here are three of the key topic areas:

Who should attend the Business Analysis Foundation course?

This course is appropriate for everyone within the company requiring an understanding of Business Analysis, including business analysts themselves, team leaders, change managers and project managers.

Companies can also have system engineers take part – something that is especially useful, as they'll have a strong understanding of the analysis process.

Once participants have completed the course, they'll have a solid foundation of knowledge that is necessary for the next stage of modular certificates.

It can also be useful when to comes time to take part in higher level courses. For example, the ISEB Diploma in Business Analysis.

Upon completion of the diploma, candidates should be capable of demonstrating the role and competencies of a business analyst, business system and process modelling, stakeholder analysis and business case development.

Other areas include management of business change and investigation and modelling techniques.

The depth of the content covered here is comprehensive, but ensures participants are fully versed in the required knowledge.

If you'd like to learn more about the Business Analysis Foundation Course, or begin training for your organisation, contact the team at ALC Training today.

ALC can deliver courses across Australia and throughout the Asia Pacific.

Dealing with cloud misconceptions

Technology has come a long way in a short space of time, with the cloud standing out as one of the best examples. Improvements to communications, staff workflow and productivity can all be seen through the implementation of new cloud platforms, but there are also misconceptions that can limit the benefits.

It’s especially important that IT leaders understand common cloud misapprehensions, and the most appropriate ways to deal with them.

Understanding and dealing with cloud misconceptions

Like a number of new technologies, the cloud has quickly expanded in use across a number of enterprises and business sectors. In turn, this has resulted in the perpetration of a number of myths – many of which can lead to false expectations.

It’s important that these misconceptions are understood by the IT leaders within an organisation, so as to ensure projects have realistic, achievable goals.

The cloud is applicable everywhere

This is certainly one of the more common myths, and for good reason. A substantial number of technologies have been paired with the cloud to great effect, such as video conferencing, file storage and remote working. In turn, this has lead to an assumption that the technologies can be utilised for any purpose.

For example, a business may operate a legacy application and decide that it’s a good candidate for a transition to the cloud. Unless there are cost savings, however, it’s a good idea to forgo any such implementation and continue operating the legacy platform.

The solution: A project management framework such as PRINCE2 is one of the most effective ways to deal with cloud misconceptions, as it means a concrete plan is put in place from the outset.

Any cloud project undertaken through a proven methodology has clear goals that all personnel involved in the project understand – this is key to ensure success. When everyone is on the same page, there are rarely unrealistic expectations that cloud cause delays or derail the implementation of a cloud platform.

The cloud is less secure than traditional technologies

Moving from traditional IT platforms to a new, cloud-based alternative can be a daunting prospect for businesses of any size, given the change required. In many cases, security concerns are also rampant – but these concerns are often unfounded.

A cloud platform that’s implemented correctly should have the same focus on security as traditional platforms, along with additional layers of security in the form of monitoring. Essentially, a vendor constantly surveys a cloud platform, assessing any possible security threats that could cause issues.

The solution: Businesses may also want an additional security assurance, and a security framework is likely to be of value here.

SABSA is a methodology designed specifically to assist businesses in the creation of useful, risk-focused security architectures. It’s highly effective for organisations of all sizes, given that it’s essentially a group of frameworks, models and processes that can be utilised individually or as a group.

As a result, the methodology can be tailored to the current technology implementation underway within the business, such as the cloud.

There’s no data privacy

A lack of privacy was cited as the most common cloud myth by Microsoft. This almost certainly stems from the misconception that all company data is stored in a central location that’s accessible to other businesses sharing the same storage. In fact, each business using a cloud-based solution is accessing a highly secure section that no other companies have access to. Any possible privacy breach is more likely to come from within the business.

The solution: To ensure that privacy remains a top priority, businesses can again use the PRINCE2 framework. This means a plan is effected that controls who has access to the cloud-based system, thus ensuring only staff that need access are granted it.

Overcoming cloud misconceptions is a necessary step in order for businesses to successfully implement cloud technologies.

 

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Preparing for the Industrial Internet

The past decade has given rise to a number of new trends such as Big Data, the cloud and the Internet of Things, forever changing how companies operate.

With the Internet of Things, organisations have access to in-depth information that's highly relevant to particular industries as it's gathered from a variety of sources. Big Data has meant companies are then able to utilise this data effectively.

The Industrial Internet is the combination of these Big Data analytics processes and the Internet of Things and is set to bring significant changes to businesses.

This article will take a look at the Industrial Internet, where it's going and how it affects organisations.

Understanding the Industrial Internet

The Industrial Internet is a powerful trend, and means companies can gain access to highly specialised information that's relevant to their business.

For example, an aerospace company can install thousands of sensors within a jet engine, and subsequently have these sensors communicate across the internet to log information in a central database. While the engine is in use, the sensors accumulate data such as the speed at which components are moving, air pressure and structural tension.

The aerospace company can then use this data to better understand what causes issues within the engine, and where improvements can be made. It's easy to see how there's far more relevant information generated through use of the Industrial Internet than other trends.

Of course, it's not solely limited to use by large aerospace companies, as a range of businesses can also take advantage of this trend. Sectors such as power generation, manufacturing, healthcare and distribution can all make use of improved access to relevant data.

A growing trend

This is expanding, and it's predicted to see significant expansion in the near future. In fact, a study titled Defining and Sizing of the Industrial Internet predicted that global spending could reach US $500 billion by 2020. This is conservative too, with the study explaining that it could in fact reach as high as $15 trillion of global GDP by 2030.

Given this massive growth, it's certainly time for businesses to begin preparing to take on the trend.

A study from GE and Accenture found that the executives of industrial companies are already aware of value of the Industrial Internet, and are ramping up Big Data spending to enhance access to new sources of information.

The two companies performed a survey as part of the study, and noted that 73 per cent of companies are investing more than 20 per cent of technology budgets on Big Data, and over two in 10 are investing above 30 per cent. This spending is also predicted to increase during the next year.

Companies across various industrial sectors are increasingly ramping up analytics spending, especially in sectors such as oil and gas, rail, manufacturing and aviation.

There's certainly no denying it's worth business consideration, given the growth of this trend.

What organisations can do

The Industrial Internet isn't something that's implemented overnight, however, especially in businesses that have an established way of garnering information. As such, it's important the endeavour is put in place with an appropriate management framework guiding the implementation.

PRINCE2 is an effective option, being one of the most highly-developed and utilised project frameworks in the world. With PRINCE2 training, businesses are using a methodology that's been constantly refined and upgraded. In addition to this, it's a highly flexible framework that suits a number of projects.

By implementing the Industrial Internet with PRINCE2, a company can ensure that the trend is put in place correctly, with a low chance of errors or significant setbacks.

Get in touch with ALC Training/PDA today if you'd like to find out more about the most appropriate ways to handle an Industrial Internet implementation.

Considering the benefits of teleworking

Companies can often find it difficult to consider new modes of operation, whether it's a cloud computing platform or a new way for employees to work.

Teleworking is one of these approaches, and can offer significant improvements for both staff and businesses. It's important to understand why project management is needed before implementation.

This article will explore the advantages of establishing teleworking in a business, and how the PRINCE2 framework can be instrumental in its success.

Understanding teleworking

Allowing staff to work from home isn't an entirely new concept, but it's become substantially easier with the advent of faster internet connections and the proliferation of mobile devices.

Implementation depends on the business, such as what work can actually be performed by staff outside of the office, but it usually means they're able to replicate their job from anywhere with an internet connection.

Of course, companies can limit the number of staff able to telework and the systems accessible outside of the business. This is crucial to ensure there's no security issues.

The key facts

Teleworkers who are able to perform their jobs from home, anywhere from one to three days a week, are more productive than their counterparts relegated to the office.

This is according to a new study commissioned by Cisco, which surveyed over 1,800 employees and 100 managers from businesses across New Zealand and Australia.

The study uncovered a number of interesting statistics, which found significant productivity improvements through the implementation of teleworking.

Here, several key results from the survey have been broken down:

A number of Australian and New Zealand businesses certainly understand the value of teleworking, as they've begun to utilise it.

Putting PRINCE2 into effect

PRINCE2 is a project management framework that's been discussed previously, and it's designed to ensure that projects within organisations are implemented effectively.

Companies considering teleworking need to understand that a project management framework can be helpful, ensuring the physical systems are put in place correctly.

PRINCE2 can accomplish this thanks to the adaptability built into the framework – this is also why PRINCE2 is used by governments and organisations around the world.

Getting started with PRINCE2 is quite simple, and only requires businesses (or IT professionals and individuals) to enrol in a course with a provider.

Moving forward

There's no denying that teleworking will continue to grow, given the benefits seen through implementation. Of course, companies need to ensure that any such endeavour is done so correctly to avoid potential issues.

It's also important to consider the validity of teleworking on a per business basis, to avoid any potential communication breakdowns that may result from splitting staff or teams.

Speak with ALC Training/PDA today if you'd like to find out about the frameworks able to mitigate these problems.

Driving project improvement with PRINCE2

Project success is determined by the management practices being used to drive the development, regardless of whether the project is underway in a small business or a large government organisation.

Having strong management practices in place (or frameworks), means that from the outset, a project is controlled capably and is more likely to deliver tangible results to the business.

PRINCE2 – an acronym for PRojects IN Controlled Environments – is a framework that's proven to be effective in the private sector and within governments. This is why it's currently utilised to great effect by the UK government.

But what defines PRINCE2 and how can it be used to drive better projects?

What defines PRINCE2?

Following publishing in 1996, after receiving contributions from around 150 European organisations, the framework saw wide implementation given the benefits it was able to offer to project improvement.

This framework can give businesses greater control over resources and more effective management of both business and project risk.

What's more, PRINCE2 is more than a framework for specialised staff and provides value to project managers, directors and executives, organisations and even individuals.

Driving better projects

As a project management framework, the benefits of PRINCE2 lie within its versatility. This is a framework that's suited to a number of projects across a range of companies.

Once participants have progressed through the courses and certifications, they'll have access to a strong suite of skills, including:

Another key element of the PRINCE2 framework is within the risk management capabilities, which can be vital to ensure projects never deviate off plan. On larger projects, when substantial time and financial commitments are at play, this capability can be especially useful.

What are the necessary courses?

Of course, once companies or individuals understand the need for a course, it's time to actually begin the appropriate training. There are several courses available for PRINCE2, each focusing on a different area for businesses.

It's important to note that not every course is needed for every individual, as they're tailored to meet different needs.

Below, each of these has been briefly detailed.

PRINCE2 Practitioner Certificate: This is a five-day course designed for aspiring or current project management professionals who need to master the framework. It's also useful for those intending to become trainers or consultants.

PRINCE2 Foundation Certificate: Those who need a basic understanding of PRINCE2 will want to consider the Foundation Certificate. It's also useful when professional-level knowledge isn't needed.

PRINCE2 Practitioner Prep: Upgrading knowledge to the Practitioner level is easy with the Practitioner Prep course, and there is a larger focus on case studies and exercises to reinforce knowledge.

Directing a Project with PRINCE2: While the other courses can take place over several days, this course is available as a half or single day meeting. It's designed for critical stakeholders on the project.

Implementing PRINCE2: The exam and certification are only the first steps for PRINCE2, and this course shows how to embed it within the organisation successfully.

Conclusion

Getting started with PRINCE2 is easy, and it only requires taking part in the necessary frameworks available from leading providers like ALC Training/PDA. Starting with a capable course provider means those taking part receive up to date training that's proven to be effective.

Get in touch today if you'd like to find out more about the many advantages of taking part in a course designed to deliver results.