'Cloud computing' refers to the storage of data (such as text files, pictures and videos) and software on remote computers, on which users access over the Internet from a device of their choice. This is faster, cheaper, more flexible and potentially more secure than on-site IT solutions. Many popular services, social media and web-based emails use cloud computing technologies. However, the real economic benefits come through widespread use of cloud solutions by businesses and the public sector.
The strategy outlines actions that will deliver a net gain of 2.5 million new jobs in Europe, and an annual boost of €160 billion to EU gross domestic product (GDP), which is expected to be around 1 % by 2020.
Key actions of the strategy include:
- Cutting through the jungle of technical standards so that cloud users get interoperability, data portability and reversibility; necessary standards should be identified by 2013;
- Support for EU-wide certification schemes for trustworthy cloud providers;
- Development of model 'safe and fair' contract terms for cloud computing contracts, including Service Level Agreements;
- A European Cloud Partnership with Member States and industry to harness the public sector's buying power (20 % of all IT spending) to shape the European cloud market, boost the chances for European cloud providers to grow to achieve a competitive scale, and deliver cheaper and better eGovernment services.
The European Commission Vice-President and Commissioner for the Digital Agenda for Europe, Neelie Kroes said in this regard: "Cloud computing is a game-changer for our economy. Without EU action, we will stay stuck in national fortresses and miss out on billions in economic gains. We must achieve critical mass and a single set of rules across Europe. We must tackle the perceived risks of cloud computing head-on."
The Vice-President of the European Commission, Viviane Reding noted: "Europe needs to think big. The cloud strategy will enhance trust in innovative computing solutions and boost a competitive digital single market where Europeans feel safe. That means a swift adoption of the new data protection framework which the Commission proposed earlier this year and the development of safe and fair contract terms and conditions."
Background Information
The strategy announcement follows the Commission's 2012 proposal to update the Data Protection rules and comes ahead of a European Strategy for Cyber Security to be proposed in the coming months. The development of such European cloud rules is a precondition for the seamless digital space that will bring us a true Digital Single Market. Together these actions form a comprehensive effort to deliver a dynamic and trusted internet environment in Europe.
The benefits of the Cloud come from its economies of scale. 80 % of organisations adopting cloud computing achieve cost savings of at least 10-20 %. Additionally, significant productivity gains are to be expected if wide adoption across all sectors of the economy can be achieved.
Further information:
- Original Press Release - RAPID - Europa
- Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions ‘Unleashing the Potential of Cloud Computing in Europe’
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Quelle/Source: epractice, 05.10.2012
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