Cloud computing is a major technological innovation which ranks alongside the mainframe, the microprocessor and the internet.

As the cloud continues its accession as the preeminent technology trend of 2015, the tech world has seen the rise of a new position: the cloud architect.

Architects come in many forms, there are data architects, infrastructure architects, application architects and enterprise architects. With so many businesses turning to enterprise architecture (EA), one of the most popular frameworks available is TOGAF. 

Although cloud architects have been around for a few years, it is only now that their duties have included the use of multiple cloud services and an expanded budget. Rather than the small-scale portfolio many architects are used too – such as locally stored applications and small SaaS service delivery – the expansion of cloud-based computing forces architects to turn to enterprise-wide thinking.

What is Cloud computing?

Cloud computing is the process whereby data and applications are stored and accessed over the internet, instead of locating them on local devices. Enterprises use the cloud due to its ability to deliver agile and quality services along with lower costs.

Examples of cloud computing include Google Drive and Microsoft Office Online, both of which utilise the internet to store programs so you can access them from anywhere, at anytime. 

However, there are some disadvantages when using cloud storage software. For instance, due to cloud storage being 100 per cent online, if there are any problems or outages, this can affect all your applications. This problem is compounded when large companies, who provide cloud storage services to other companies, crash – creating a domino effect. 

Nevertheless, the advantages of storing data and accessing it online are too big to ignore.

According to Market Research Media Ltd, the global market for cloud computing is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30 per cent, while in 2020 the industry is expected to reach $270 million.

The market for cloud computing is growing, how can you take advantage of it?

Microsoft announced during its second quarter earnings release that commercial cloud computing had grown by triple digits for the sixth consecutive quarter. Revenue from product offerings such as Office 365, Azure and Dynamics CRM Online grew 114 per cent and is currently on a revenue run rate of $5.5 billion.

Further, a survey by Dimensional Research, sponsored by Equinix, found that cloud computing is here to stay. Of the 659 cloud-responsible participants surveyed, 69 per cent believed that their budget for cloud services would increase by 2015. 

Enterprise architecture and cloud computing

Cloud computing is an excellent cost saving practice. As many organisations are characterised by low use of assets and uneven demand for resources, the use of cloud computing can help fix these issues.

By transferring services onto the cloud, an organisation can streamline business services and cut out the excess and redundant spending that may have built up over time.

But where does TOGAF fit in?

TOGAF is a top down, holistic approach to enterprise architecture. Using best practice principles from an architectural perspective ensures that the various aspects of your enterprise are in synch with long-term IT and business goals.

The framework leads the project development to high level solutions in line with overall business and IT strategy.

Cloud architects can utilise TOGAF to synch lines of business with new technological developments. As TOGAF is vendor, tool and technology neutral, it can facilitate the implementation of cloud computing by prioritising business strategy and aligning it with possible cloud services. 

It is important to use a successful enterprise architecture when deciding which technology solutions to implement in a business. Certification in TOGAF can allow you to better implement cloud computing and align it with your overall business strategy.

Talk to a team of experienced trainers to find out more about TOGAF training near you.