A CLOUD technology programme announced yesterday could have far-reaching implications for how the public sector will store and share information in years to come.
The Cloud4Gov programme will see IDA Ireland and the EMC Corporation construct a cloud centre with hubs in government networks and in EMC’s centre of excellence.
To be implemented in the next few weeks, the programme will also provide a secure, private space for Irish small and medium-sized enterprises to demonstrate data efficiency and cost-saving solutions.
Although “cloud” is a relatively new term, most people are familiar with the technology.
It means that data is not stored on your personal computer, but rather on a remote server that can be accessed by any computer or mobile device. If you have ever shared a Google document or purchased a song from iTunes you will have used cloud technology.
However, unlike iTunes, not just anyone can access the information in this project. The data will be retained on the government network in the government data centre, and there is security built into the system.
“This platform will remove the upfront IT cost and infrastructure barriers, and provide a unique opportunity for companies to develop and showcase their new applications using datasets from public sector organisations,” said Jason Ward, EMC country manager.
“Cloud4Gov will be a platform to promote Ireland as a first-mover and leader in innovation which is committed to driving the smart economy. It’s built for trust. In terms of outside access, or the data floating around, that isn’t a possibility,” he said.
The system also has economic implications, potentially saving IT costs through more efficient data storage, driving job creation along the way.
Governments may be able to reduce up to 50 per cent of their infrastructure and operational IT costs by moving applications to a cloud, said a 2011 study conducted by the Washington, DC-based Bookings Institution.
And technological innovations may provide new opportunities for workers.
“Jobs will always come from new technologies,” said Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte.