A recent survey report released by IT consulting firm Avanade shows that globally 74 percent of companies are using some form of cloud services today. A 25 percent growth in adoption since Avanade’s September 2009 survey. Of those organizations that have yet to implement cloud, three-quarters say it’s on the horizon.

Survey pointed three signs cloud computing is maturing:
1. Companies are increasing investments to secure, manage and support cloud.
2. There is a growing adoption and preference for private cloud.
3. Execs are starting to see cloud as a way to generate revenue.

“Any decision to begin using cloud computing requires forethought, planning and preparation,” said Larry Beck, senior director, cloud strategy at Avanade. “Companies must identify their business objectives, determine which applications are prime targets for moving to the cloud, prove the business case and ensure the technology fits. The journey to cloud is an evolution that will occur over time. IT professionals should start with a clear plan, sound analysis, proven methodologies and practices, and a strong line of communication to the user community and corporate executives.”

One of the reason why there is a 25 percent increase in the cloud adoption rate is cloud makes it possible to store and access data from anywhere, so it can really benefit almost anyone or any vertical. “Also, it provides massive compute power that previously would have only been affordable for select companies. Large Internet companies were the first to leverage the power of the cloud. By virtue of their business, they had the easiest time understanding the pros and cons of the cloud, and they already had the talent in-house to take advantage of it,” articulated Sharmila Shahani-Mulligan, founder and CEO,ClearStory Data.

Tyson Hartman, global chief technology officer at Avanade said, “As is true with many forms of technology innovation, consumer technology often has a way of secretly creeping into the enterprise. Today, public cloud services are in a similar situation. The barrier to entry for many cloud capabilities continues to lower and our research shows some are so easy to adopt, they are outpacing the ability of IT leaders to manage them effectively.”