Cloud computing is a paradigm shift in how we architect and deliver scalable applications. In
the past, successful companies spent precious time and resources building an
infrastructure that in turn provided them a competitive advantage. It was frequently a case
of "You build it first and they
will come." In most cases, this approach:
Left large tracts of unused computing capacity that took up space in big
data centers.
Required someone to babysit the servers.
Had associated energy costs.
The unused computing power wasted away, with
no way to push it out to other companies or users who might be willing to pay for
additional compute cycles.
With cloud computing, excess computing capacity
can be put to use and be profitably sold
to consumers. This transformation of computing and IT infrastructure into a
utility, which is available to all, somewhat levels the playing field.