Impact of cloud computing in Ireland's institutes of higher education

Cloud computing has emerged in recent years as a popular method of deploying information technology (IT) solutions within organisations. Cloud computing provides scalable, on-demand IT resources, which can be rapidly provisioned and utilised over the Internet. Cloud computing solutions can provide an excellent alternative for educational institutions where budget cuts have been incurred and cloud deployment enables them to operate their IT systems efficiently. This paper examines the cloud computing solutions deployed within Ireland's state-funded institutes of technology and outlines the benefits, challenges and rationale for choosing these products or services. All of the Irish institutes stated they had implemented some form of cloud computing solution and indicated high satisfaction levels with the implemented solution. Most of the institutes of technology indicated they would consider cloud solutions for future IT requirements.