A CIO's guide to cloud risk management

Introduction

The long-range enterprise forecast shows increasing cloud coverage with a 100% chance of risk. Navigating the volatile, rapidly evolving cloud computing environment is more necessary than ever for CIOs, and also more challenging.

The decision to migrate to the cloud is the easy part; successful maintenance of the cloud is where companies are really tested. Today, cloud management strategies involve many tasks -- including constant monitoring, security and compliance governance, application management, vendor contract negotiations, disaster recovery considerations and contingency plans -- making it far from a "set it and forget it" project.

How can CIOs best manage cloud data and applications while curtailing risk? In this SearchCIO Essential Guide, we explore cloud risk management best practices that can help your company master the private, hybrid and public cloud and maximize business value. We provide expert tips on navigating the risk-laden software as a service (SaaS) and infrastructure as a service (IaaS) domains and detail how to develop a clearly defined vendor contract. Plus, we highlight the top security application hazards, give examples of companies that have turned cloud risk into cloud reward, and take a peek at present and future cloud management trends.

This Essential Guide on cloud risk management is designed to give IT leaders strategic management and decision-making advice on timely topics.

1Strategic cloud management-

Cloud risk management best practices

Cloud computing is transforming the way businesses operate, but before your organization tackles the extensive management challenges, you need to be well-acquainted with the basics of an effective cloud strategy and ask the right questions. In this section, learn key cloud computing solutions and how private, public or hybrid cloud-based systems fit into your IT plan.

2Videos-

First-hand cloud computing guidance

In these videos, hear risk mitigation advice from the pros, discover the importance of vendor-client relationships and get tips on cloud service negotiations.

Video

Provider-customer cooperation needed to offset cloud security risks

Markley Group CTO Patrick Gilmore chats about cloud security risks that businesses are facing today and the role of cloud service providers and customers in protecting data and applications in the cloud.

Video

Know your data needs before making cloud service agreements

In this webcast, learn how to integrate your organization's unique data management and e-discovery conditions into a cloud service agreement.

Video

How to reduce cloud computing risks and security concerns

In this webcast, hear about cloud security best practices companies can implement to mitigate cloud computing risks and protect their data.

3Risky business-

Cloud management practices in action

Are you getting the most out of your cloud management approach? In this section, get advice from cloud experts on conquering the business side of your cloud strategy, including drafting cloud contracts and termination agreements, and other tips on successfully turning the tables on cloud risk.

4Glossary-

Cloud risk management terminology

5On cloud strategy's horizon-

Cloud risk management present and future trends

As more cloud devices, applications and services enter the enterprise, cloud management strategies become more complex and it becomes harder to distinguish which path is right for your business. Stay up on the trends in this section that are shaking up the enterprise and shaping the future of strategic cloud practices.

6Quiz-

How well are you managing the cloud?

The right cloud strategy can make all the difference in your business. Think you're adhering to the best cloud computing management practices? Take this quiz to find out.