Forrester Playbook The Cloud Computing Playbook For 2017 Forrester Playbook The Cloud Computing Playbook for 2017 Executive This playbook provides a comprehensive overview of the cloud computing landscape in 2017 focusing on key trends strategies and best practices for organizations navigating this rapidly evolving technology landscape It aims to equip businesses with the knowledge and tools necessary to Understand the latest cloud computing trends From the rise of serverless computing to the evolution of artificial intelligence AI and machine learning ML in the cloud this playbook analyzes emerging technologies and their impact on businesses Develop a strategic cloud adoption plan This playbook guides organizations through the process of identifying their cloud computing needs selecting the right cloud solutions and implementing them successfully Optimize cloud investments By providing insights into cost optimization strategies and best practices for managing cloud resources this playbook helps organizations maximize the return on their cloud investments Table of Contents 1 Defining Cloud Computing in 2017 The Changing Cloud Landscape Why Cloud Matters Business Benefits and Challenges 2 Cloud Computing Trends Serverless Computing The Rise of FunctionasaService FaaS Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning AIML in the Cloud From Data Analytics to Predictive Insights Edge Computing Extending Cloud Capabilities to the Network Edge Hybrid Cloud and MultiCloud Strategies Balancing Flexibility and Security Security in the Cloud Addressing Emerging Threats and Compliance Requirements 3 Strategic Cloud Adoption 2 Defining Your Cloud Goals Aligning Cloud Strategy with Business Objectives Choosing the Right Cloud Provider Public Private Hybrid and MultiCloud Options Developing a Cloud Migration Plan Planning Executing and Managing the Transition Cloud Governance and Security Establishing Policies and Best Practices 4 Optimizing Cloud Investments Cost Management Strategies Optimizing Resource Utilization and Reducing Cloud Spending Cloud Monitoring and Performance Optimization Ensuring Efficient Cloud Operations Cloud Security and Compliance Protecting Data and Systems in the Cloud 5 Case Studies RealWorld Examples of Successful Cloud Adoption Highlighting best practices and lessons learned from leading organizations Cloud Transformation Journeys Demonstrating the process of migrating to the cloud and overcoming common challenges 6 Conclusion The Future of Cloud Computing Looking Ahead to Emerging Trends and Innovations Call to Action Embracing Cloud Computing for Business Success Detailed 1 This section provides an overview of the cloud computing landscape in 2017 defining key concepts and highlighting the significant changes occurring in the industry It explores the growing importance of cloud computing for businesses outlining the various benefits and challenges associated with its adoption 2 Cloud Computing Trends This section delves into the most significant trends shaping the cloud computing landscape including Serverless Computing This emerging technology allows developers to build and run applications without managing servers focusing on code rather than infrastructure The section explores the benefits use cases and potential challenges of serverless computing AIML in the Cloud The cloud is becoming a hub for AI and ML initiatives offering powerful tools and resources for data analysis predictive modeling and automation This section analyzes the impact of AIML on cloud computing and its implications for businesses Edge Computing Edge computing extends cloud capabilities to the network edge processing 3 data closer to the source reducing latency and improving responsiveness The section explores the use cases and benefits of edge computing particularly in industries like manufacturing and retail Hybrid and MultiCloud Strategies Organizations are increasingly adopting hybrid and multi cloud strategies to leverage the strengths of different cloud providers and manage risks This section examines the considerations involved in choosing a hybrid or multicloud approach Cloud Security With the increasing adoption of cloud computing security concerns are paramount This section explores emerging security threats and best practices for securing data and systems in the cloud 3 Strategic Cloud Adoption This section guides organizations through the process of developing a strategic cloud adoption plan including Defining Cloud Goals Organizations need to clearly articulate their cloud goals and align them with their overall business objectives Choosing a Cloud Provider This section analyzes the different types of cloud providers and helps organizations choose the best fit for their needs Cloud Migration Plan Organizations need a welldefined plan for migrating to the cloud considering factors like data migration application modernization and security Cloud Governance and Security Establishing clear governance and security policies is critical for managing risks and ensuring compliance 4 Optimizing Cloud Investments This section focuses on strategies for optimizing cloud investments and maximizing return on investment including Cost Management Strategies This section outlines strategies for reducing cloud costs by optimizing resource utilization and leveraging pricing models Cloud Monitoring and Performance Optimization Monitoring cloud performance and identifying bottlenecks is essential for ensuring efficient cloud operations Cloud Security and Compliance This section highlights best practices for protecting data and systems in the cloud including compliance with relevant regulations 5 Case Studies This section provides realworld examples of successful cloud adoption showcasing how organizations are using cloud computing to achieve business outcomes These case studies highlight best practices lessons learned and potential pitfalls to avoid 4 6 Conclusion This section concludes the playbook by summarizing the key takeaways and looking ahead to the future of cloud computing It highlights emerging trends and innovations that are likely to shape the industry in the years to come The conclusion also includes a call to action urging organizations to embrace cloud computing for business success This playbook serves as a valuable resource for organizations at all stages of their cloud adoption journey By understanding the key trends strategies and best practices outlined in this document businesses can make informed decisions optimize their cloud investments and harness the power of cloud computing to achieve their strategic objectives