This weeks readings were about the future uses of libraries and cloud computing. I was unfamiliar with this term and confused after reading the article. Again this is a term that can mean many different things depending on which money making entity is using it. I felt that the video did a much better job of explaining the concept since it wasn't trying to sell you a certain service at the same time. The video compared computing with cloud computing to obtaining electric energy by accessing the electrical power grid, liken cloud computing with utility computing. SaaS--Software as a service and HaaS--Hardware as a service are two types of possible cloud computing services, which would connect ones computer to software and hardware as an online utility. I discovered that I already cloud compute since I use an online security suite. Who knew?
A further discussion on the leveling of the playing field since businesses could reduce capital costs didn't really sell me on the idea of cloud computing. In light of the current economy I don't trust the business world to do anything for the common man with their savings. As an individual I wondered if I want to subscibe to another monthly bill for access to the cloud. I don't have cable tv and only started to pay for internet access when I started school. I also considered the fact that many people today do not have electricity. Will cloud computing do anything but exacerbate the digital divide?
This brings us to the last reading about the future of libraries. I felt this was an overly optimistic view of the future as well as the future of libraries. Again, in light of the current economy I wonder where the financing for all these technological developments will come from. And, I admit it, I would hate to see the end of the book.
Senior Computer Class 2011 Photo Album
14 years ago
2 comments:
In my opinion, the idea of cloud computing is a good thing because it provides more options, and that usually means better services at a cheaper cost, especially when it's user-generated. Usually. And I think there are enough entrepreneurs out there to advance our technology, despite our economic woes. In fact, I think that problem will encourge new, innovative ideas.
The readings were very interesting and I learned alot concerning electric energy. I have never heard of cloud computing until observing this information and it is quite unique. As far as the financing, there is no telling where it could come from.
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