Computing in the Cloud

Sounds peaceful, even idyllic doesn't it?  For the most part it actually is.  In fact, I think this whole notion of cloud computing (EDIT: this article is a great overview) is the most important increase in Internet usefulness since, well, ever I guess.  I say that because, all the social and interactive tools of the Web 2.0 idea aside, this shift is fundamental.  It moves us away from being tied to a location, i.e. your personal computer / desk / network hardware / building to access your favorite tools.  As long as you have signal, you have access to your stuff on your smart phone, net- or notebook.  Of course, the devil is in the details.

I read this article today regarding the need for privacy and security laws in the realm of cloud computing.  Now, the skeptic in me wonders why Microsoft would be bringing up privacy concerns and security concerns.  Maybe to take the high ground after the whole Google vs. China situation (read about that here and here).  No matter the reason, Microsoft is right.  From my position as a person "in charge" of literally tens of thousands of patron records, data security is pretty high on the list of things to have covered.  Now, we are not anywhere near the stage where HPL could provide an integrated library system in a cloud environment even if we hadn't just purchased a new system and hardware to match.

As an individual, I like the cloud concept and am increasingly becoming beholden to Google.  At this point, using Google Docs / Reader / Calendar / GMail / Chat / Sites / Analytics / etc., I really don't need anything else for work besides access to the library's automation system.  But I also don't really believe that Google can or will live up to its "Do No Evil" slogan if left to its own devices.  And not to pick on Google, they are just the most familiar target for me in this area.

Here at HPL, we have been using various free Google tools in place of internally maintained pieces of software and hardware for various experimental programs.  We are using a lot of shared calendars, for example, in order to keep track of each other and all the events that go on around here.  We are also using Google Docs and forms for our Purchase vs. Borrow program for materials.  But for now, experiments are probably all we will do until the "cloudscape" becomes becomes a little less nebulous.