forbes.com
Five Critical Cloud Computing Mistakes to Avoid in 2025
Five critical mistakes businesses make with cloud computing in 2025 are outlined: neglecting strategic cloud adoption, overlooking security, failing to align cloud and AI strategies, not managing AI costs, and becoming locked into a single cloud provider.
- How can businesses effectively integrate cloud and AI strategies to maximize their value and avoid common pitfalls?
- The symbiotic relationship between cloud and AI is crucial. Companies need to integrate their strategies for both, unlike many that currently treat them as separate entities. This integration, as demonstrated by Netflix and Amazon, allows for optimized resource use, personalized services, and entirely new business models. Failing to do this results in fragmented efforts and missed opportunities.
- What are the most significant risks businesses face in their cloud strategies in the next 12 months, and how can these be mitigated?
- Businesses must view cloud computing not merely as IT infrastructure but as a strategic asset for innovation and new business models, as exemplified by the success of numerous startups. Failing to do so will limit opportunities for growth and transformation. Cloud security needs a "security-first" culture and shouldn't be solely relied upon cloud providers, given the risk of insider threats and architectural vulnerabilities, as seen in a 2023 Azure attack.
- What are the long-term implications of vendor lock-in in cloud computing, and what strategies can businesses employ to ensure flexibility and adaptability?
- The rising costs of AI workloads in the cloud, as illustrated by Stability AI's financial struggles, necessitate careful budgeting and cost management. Vendor lock-in, affecting 95% of businesses according to Gartner, should be avoided through multi-cloud strategies and open-source technologies. Businesses must prioritize agility and adaptability to thrive in the evolving cloud landscape.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames cloud computing as a source of potential pitfalls and risks, emphasizing the negative aspects. While acknowledging benefits, the emphasis on potential problems may create a negative perception for readers unfamiliar with the technology. The headline or introduction could be adjusted to balance the positive and negative aspects more effectively.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral but some phrases, such as "runaway bills" or "costly failure," carry slightly negative connotations. Using more neutral terms such as "uncontrolled expenses" or "significant financial challenges" could improve objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on common pitfalls in cloud computing strategy, but omits discussion of potential benefits or success stories beyond a few examples. This limited perspective might not fully represent the diverse experiences of businesses using cloud technologies. Further, it lacks discussion on the regulatory landscape surrounding cloud computing and its implications for businesses.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights how cloud computing drives innovation and growth in businesses, enabling new products, services, and business models. It emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between cloud and AI, leading to advancements in various sectors. This directly contributes to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering technological progress and economic development.