Scotland needs cloud computing for economic growth, Minister claims
Scotland needs cloud computing for economic growth, Minister claims
The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland has claimed that cloud computing is absolutely essential in order for Scotland to enjoy economic growth.
David Mundell made the comments whilst on a visit to cloud services provider iomart Group, based in Glasgow. Following on from several moves towards the implementation of cloud computing across Government services – including the Cabinet Office’s launch of the procurement round for G-Cloud iv (G4) – Mundell’s comments prove how strongly Scotland is taking its move towards the cloud.
His comments also back up statements made by the Minister for the Cabinet Office, Francis Maude, who recently stressed the importance of cloud computing, particularly in the public sector.
Mr Mundell told Cloud Pro that cloud computing services could help to boost economic recovery in Scotland “by creating employment and giving companies a competitive and cost-effective edge.”
He said: “In the global race for growth, business and government need every competitive advantage possible. We need a strong, thriving and innovative ICT sector across the UK and here in Scotland.
“Technologies such as cloud computing can have a real impact on competitiveness, creating new ways to deliver services and collaborate as well as reducing costs. Iomart is a great example of a company leading the way and providing its clients with the tools they need to get ahead in business,” Mr Mundell went on to say.
The cloud agenda has been high on the UK Government’s priority list for some time now. G-Cloud was launched two years ago as part of a push to encourage the public sector to make use of commodity cloud computing. Following on from that, a cloud first approach has subsequently been mandated by the Government.
Businesses looking to move services into the cloud, should evaluate the performance of their existing network and consider setting up a leased line or MPLS network.
