The versatility, scalability and affordability of cloud technology make it an indispensable tool for companies of all sizes. Therefore, it is important to keep track of the latest developments and trends in cloud technology and understand what challenges lie ahead.
In this article, we take an in-depth look at the most prominent trends shaping cloud technology in 2023, as well as the obstacles that you might need to overcome to ensure continued growth.
Cloud technology trends in 2023
Growing popularity of multi-cloud solutions
As organizations seek to optimize their technology stack and reduce reliance on a single cloud provider, multi-cloud solutions are becoming increasingly popular. More than three-quarters of midsize companies already have a multi-cloud strategy, and that figure is expected to grow to 84% in 2023.
By using multiple cloud services at the same time, companies can improve the performance and reliability of their applications and reduce the risk of using a single provider. As cloud services become more diverse and new players emerge, multi-cloud strategies will most likely grow in popularity in 2023 and beyond.
Increased interest in AI and machine learning
The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into the cloud infrastructure is driving innovation and providing significant benefits for companies. These technologies are being used to automate processes, make better decisions and extract valuable information from data.
IDC predicts the market for cloud-based AI solutions will reach $549.9 billion by 2025. As AI and machine learning capabilities continue to evolve, we can expect these technologies to be increasingly applied in cloud environments, and organizations will use them to gain a competitive advantage.
Increasing the role of edge computing
Edge computing has become an essential technology for companies looking to reduce costs and increase productivity by processing data close to its source. According to some forecasts, the global market for edge computing will reach $274 billion by 2025.
Given the sheer volume of data generated by IoT devices, edge computing is becoming increasingly important for accelerated analysis and real-time decision-making. The number of connected devices continues to grow, so we can expect peripheral computing to play an even more prominent role in cloud computing in 2023 and beyond.
Transition to hybrid cloud solutions
Hybrid cloud solutions are becoming increasingly popular because they allow companies to balance the advantages and disadvantages of public and private clouds. For example, by combining the inexpensive public cloud with the security and control offered by a private cloud, organizations can optimize their technology stack and improve the efficiency and performance of their applications.
Emphasis on safety
Security and compliance are critical challenges for cloud organizations. As the amount of sensitive data stored in clouds increases, companies must take enhanced measures to protect information and comply with regulations and industry standards.
As a result, we can expect more attention to information security in cloud technology in 2023 and beyond. According to Stack Group experts' forecasts, the growth of the secure cloud segment may reach 40-50% by the end of the year.
Current challenges in cloud tech
Cost optimization
The cost of cloud services can increase rapidly as services are scaled, so it is crucial for companies to implement effective cost management strategies. This involves understanding different pricing models and selecting the most cost-effective cloud solutions, as well as optimizing the use of available resources and preventing their misuse. It is also important to make sure that the company is not paying for services it does not use and that it has a clear overview of monthly cloud costs.
Managing data privacy and security
One of the biggest challenges users face is ensuring the privacy and security of data stored in the cloud. With data breaches and cyberattacks on the rise, companies have to take additional measures to protect their data and prevent unauthorized access. This requires a robust security strategy that includes encryption, identity and access management, continuous monitoring and other measures.
Shortage of highly qualified professionals
As cloud technologies continue to evolve and become more complex, organizations must ensure that their employees have the necessary technical skills to support the cloud infrastructure. This can be done by investing in the training and development of existing staff or by hiring new people with the necessary skills. Lack of employee expertise can lead to increased downtime, lower productivity and higher costs, so it's important for organizations to address these issues proactively.
Integration with legacy systems
For many organizations, integrating cloud technology with existing systems is a critical challenge. Careful preparation is required to ensure that data is properly migrated and that systems and applications continue to run smoothly. Companies must also consider the impact of integration on workflows and ensure the necessary resources are in place to support the transition.
Balance between flexibility and control
One of the biggest advantages of cloud technology is its flexibility, but it can also be a challenge. It is important to find the right balance between flexibility and control, while providing the necessary transparency and deployment management. A clearly articulated cloud strategy can help, as can clear procedures that support effective management of cloud resources.
Final thoughts
Cloud technology has become an indispensable tool for companies of all sizes, offering benefits such as affordability, flexibility and scalability. However, the ongoing evolution of technology and the challenges it brings requires organizations to be proactive to realize the full benefits of the cloud and remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.
