Complexity is often discussed as a problem in enterprise IT systems. In most cases, this is true. However, complexity can also be a component of a sophisticated system that delivers results. In such a setting, complementary solutions, like business process management software, are necessary to reign in complex solutions and ensure they work well in conjunction with each other. As corporate cloud strategies continue into 2013, more organizations will likely use the cloud in more complicated ways, making BPM software an essential technology.
Cloud progression in 2013
According to a recent Data Center Knowledge report, cloud technologies will evolve substantially in the coming year. One way that the cloud will change in 2013 is the increased deployment of hybrid and multiple cloud systems. Hybrid cloud technologies enable organizations to implement public and private cloud systems in conjunction with one another. The multiple cloud movement, on the other hand, stems from the growing business tendency of turning to a variety of vendors and solutions to meet their cloud needs.
As these trends develop in the new year, organizations face a major integration challenge. Hybrid and multiple cloud systems depend on being able to integrate applications and data across cloud platforms and with traditional IT architectures. BPM solutions can play a major role in integrating such systems by automating data workflows and ensuring that applications and information systems are made accessible to employees regardless of where they are when accessing the data.
Another major cloud trend for the coming year is the transition to the cloud as a solution that unifies facility and operations systems. The news source explained that more data center services vendors are unifying a variety of services under the blanket of cloud computing architectures. As a result, service platforms ranging from colocation to dedicated hosting are being coupled with the cloud to offer holistic technological models.
BPM can pay dividends in this area as well, enabling companies to unify their various technological systems to make the most of the resources available. Further, BPM introduces process automation into the broad IT landscape. This enables businesses to align their processes and the technology they use, maximizing operational efficiency and revenue potential. In turn, organizations improve productivity while making it easier for workers to get the job done effectively. This creates a better work environment as a whole, and gives employees the technological tools they need to turn IT assets into operational enablers.
Cindy Cheng
Director of Product Marketing
