FEATURE : CLOUD COMPUTING
Top cloud technology strategies
• Building a cloud strategy for 2025 requires a balanced approach across SaaS , IaaS , PaaS .
• Key considerations include SaaS procurement , embracing multi-cloud , integrating AI , data management with security and compliance practices .
• CIOs should develop a cloud strategy that leverages Open SaaS tools for collaboration and project management , alongside PaaS for custom application development .
• CIOs must focus on cost-efficiency , flexibility , scalability , while improving cloud services to support business growth .
• Ensuring secure and efficient data storage and processing through IaaS will be key to optimising infrastructure projects .
• Cloud native application protection platform solutions replace a patchwork of siloed products that provide only partial coverage .
• By adopting a CNAPP approach CIOs can unify security and compliance technologies to gain contextual visibility into their cloud .
• CIOs should position AI as a core component of their cloud strategy , leveraging its capabilities to anticipate and meet consumer needs .
• Consider AI a first-class citizen that can amplify rich capabilities .
• Service platforms must focus on talent optimisation and automated workflows to maximise the new level of insight in real-time .
• Hybrid cloud platforms will require sophisticated cost management , with a shift towards AI-augmented FinOps .
• DevSecOps must evolve to address the dynamic demands of intelligent service platforms .
• As AI usage surges , cloud usage will rise , requiring organisations to reconsider foundational LLMs from traditional cloud providers .
• Embrace a data-driven approach with governed AI and analytics to optimise resource allocation and performance .
• A hybrid or multi-cloud strategy can enhance resilience and adaptability to meet market demands .
surface . CIOs ’ cloud strategy needs to encompass enhanced risk prioritisation to close these gaps ,” says Tenable ’ s Jadallah .
Cloud native application protection platform , CNAPP solutions replace a patchwork of siloed products that provide only partial coverage , often cause excessive alerts , and fail to expose complex risks .
QUANTUM COMPUTING WILL START TO BE INCORPORATED INTO MAINSTREAM CLOUD FOR HANDLING SPECIALISED WORKLOADS .
By adopting a CNAPP approach CIOs can unify security and compliance technologies to gain contextual visibility into their cloud-native apps and infrastructure , and overall cloud security posture . CNAPPs allow CIOs to monitor the health of their cloud environment as a whole rather than individually .
“ CIOs should position AI as a core component of their cloud strategy , leveraging its capabilities to anticipate and meet consumer needs . They should consider AI a first-class citizen that can amplify rich capabilities ,” says Globant ’ s Pienovi .
To unlock AI-driven potential , service platforms must focus on talent optimisation and automated workflows to maximise the new level of insight and action in real-time . Hybrid cloud platforms will require sophisticated cost management , with a shift towards AI-augmented FinOps . Furthermore , DevSecOps must evolve to address the dynamic demands of intelligent service platforms .
As AI usage surges , cloud usage will inevitably rise , requiring organisations to reconsider their reliance on foundational LLMs from traditional cloud providers . This may lead to diversification into additional providers , open-source models , or partnerships .
“ Embrace a data-driven approach with governed AI and analytics to optimise resource allocation and performance . A hybrid or multi-cloud strategy can further enhance resilience and adaptability to evolving market demands ,” advises Alteryx ’ s Crowther .
Blend of skill sets
In 2025 , managing hybrid and multi-cloud environments will require skills in cloud cost optimisation , balancing spending with performance using flexible pricing models . Expertise in cloud governance and security is essential to ensure compliance , protect data , and manage access across platforms . “ Automation skills are critical for deploying and managing services efficiently , reducing manual efforts ,” says ManageEngine ’ s Vaidyanathan .
Additionally , IT professionals need expertise in cloud architecture design for integrating public and private clouds , and data management for seamless data governance and analytics . “ Cross-functional collaboration , along with strong vendor management and risk mitigation , is key for successful cloud strategy execution ,” continues Vaidyanathan .
“ Enterprise skill sets must focus on data security , governance , and traceability to effectively manage hybrid and multi-cloud environments . Proficiency in emerging technologies such as Kubernetes and
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