ITIL 2011 and Cloud Computing

There is a lot of talk concerning cloud computing and its’ potential to supplement, or even entirely replace, conventional IT systems.  It should be noted for example, that cloud computing has already become an important force in several ways, and can be found in governmental organizations spanning the globe.  Businesses were among the first to begin adapting cloud computing, or utilizing the “pay as you go” services offered by its many providers; now, it has spread to the entertainment sector in the form of music, storage, and even gaming.

Despite the growing popularity and importance of cloud computing however, little effort has been made toward incorporating it into established methodology guides, like ITIL® (any version).   The reason for this is fairly obvious, ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is predominantly concerned with grid-based computing and networking, and cloud computing is an entirely new way of looking at both of those items.  In fact, cloud computing is an entirely new form of infrastructure with its own unique components, processes and uses.  ITIL 2011 mentions cloud, but it isn’t in depth, and cloud certainly isn’t covered in all sections of the framework.

Establishing an entirely separate best practices and methods reference for cloud computing might actually be required in the end, but there are several issues to contend with as well.  ITIL will eventually need to expand to accommodate for anomalies like hybrid systems (which utilize technology/infrastructure from both grid and cloud systems) or methodologies for adding independent cloud services to an already established grid infrastructure.  But what about individuals and businesses that choose to abandon grid computing entirely in favor of cloud computing?  Will ITIL simply expand to include cloud computing methods and practices?

A potential reason why widespread adoption of cloud computing methodology hasn’t been embraced fully by the ITIL framework?  It could very well be that there might not be enough data, conclusive evidence, research, or studies to support or construct a best practices guide for cloud computing.  Sure, there is a wealth of information out there covering nearly every aspect of cloud computing, but unlike its predecessor, it’s still changing and evolving.  In other words, it’s not stable or fully developed; change and development in cloud computing is a near daily occurrence.   So, even if a guide was developed, it would likely be outdated by the time it was released, that’s how fast changes are occurring in world of cloud computing.  Those individuals or groups eyeing the opportunity to release methodology-laden materials are likely waiting for cloud computing to reach a certain “plateau of development” before setting themselves to the task.

This is not to say of course, that ITIL 2011 shouldn’t include a more in-depth analysis and/or guides for basic cloud computing infrastructures, however.   In order to remain relevant in the coming age of development, ITIL is going to have to begin incorporating all manner of cloud-driven infrastructure.  Even as you are reading this someone, somewhere is combining (or attempting to combine) their grid infrastructure with one or more services offered by a cloud computing provider.  Arguably, one of the main reasons for the delay in incorporating cloud computing elements has largely to do with licensing issues and security qualms.

As previously stated, there are certain elements (in cloud computing) that are well defined, and others that are not.  Conforming computing elements or infrastructures is not always as simple as creating a universal language for both, or just putting the pieces together; often times, there are complex licensing and legal issues that severely complicate matters.  So, before any type of definitive guide can be produced with regards to coalescing grid IT systems with cloud computing systems or elements, these issues must be addressed in detail as well.

While those responsible for the ITIL books are certainly looking into including more cloud computing elements into future editions, what are we supposed to do in the mean time?  The best course of action for those combining these technologies (grid and cloud) is probably going to be to simply recruit an experienced cloud computing technician to handle your affairs.  In fact, it is even likely that the cloud provider you are working with might even have someone in mind (perhaps an employee or a dependable third-party contractor).

Until a definitive guide is released detailing the specifics of dealing with and implementing these types of infrastructures, that is likely the only route aside from going the “trial and error” route yourself (which is not recommended).  Not to worry however, it is only a matter of time until a version of the ITIL framework is released which comprises cloud computing in more details; then, IT departments across the globe will have the tools and information they need to adequately service these systems as well.