What skills do you need to evaluate new cloud computing tech?

1 Understanding the basics

Before you dive into the details of any new cloud computing tech, you need to have a solid understanding of the basic concepts and principles of cloud computing. This includes the different types of cloud models (public, private, hybrid, and multi-cloud), the common cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS), and the core characteristics of cloud computing (on-demand, scalable, elastic, metered, and distributed). You also need to be familiar with the main cloud providers (such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and IBM Cloud) and their offerings, as well as the standards and best practices for cloud security, governance, and compliance.

2 Researching the market

To evaluate new cloud computing tech, you need to be aware of what is happening in the market and what are the current and emerging trends and innovations. You need to be able to research and compare different cloud solutions and vendors, and identify their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. You also need to be able to analyze the customer needs and expectations, and the competitive landscape. You can use various sources of information, such as industry reports, white papers, blogs, podcasts, webinars, forums, and social media, to stay updated and informed.

3 Testing the functionality

One of the best ways to evaluate new cloud computing tech is to test it yourself. You need to be able to set up and configure the cloud environment, deploy and run the applications or services, and monitor and troubleshoot the performance and issues. You also need to be able to measure and evaluate the results, such as the speed, reliability, availability, scalability, cost, and security of the cloud solution. You can use various tools and methods, such as benchmarks, simulations, prototypes, demos, trials, and feedback, to test and validate the functionality of the cloud solution.

4 Learning the skills

To evaluate new cloud computing tech, you also need to learn the skills and knowledge that are required or beneficial for using it. This may include technical skills, such as programming languages, frameworks, APIs, databases, and tools, as well as soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking. You also need to learn the best practices and standards for designing, developing, deploying, and managing cloud applications and services. You can use various resources and platforms, such as online courses, certifications, books, tutorials, videos, and communities, to learn and improve your skills.

5 Applying the criteria

When evaluating new cloud computing tech, you must apply criteria that can help you make a decision. These criteria may vary based on your goals, needs, preferences, and constraints, but some common ones include relevance, value, compatibility, reliability, scalability, and innovation. Relevance considers how well the cloud solution fits your use case and expectations. Value examines the benefits and costs of using the cloud solution and the return on investment. Compatibility looks at how easy it is to integrate the cloud solution with your existing systems. Reliability measures the stability, consistency, and security of the cloud solution. Scalability gauges how well the cloud solution can handle changes in demand, workload, and complexity. Innovation evaluates how advanced and competitive the cloud solution is and what future prospects exist.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?