What is this standard about?
It gives an overview of cloud computing and defines a clear common vocabulary to help service providers talk to their customers in plain and consistent terms.
Who is this standard for?
- Cloud computing providers
- Cloud computing customers – from small enterprises to global organizations
- Partner organizations such as software developers and auditors
- In house IT operators/auditors/designers of information management systems
- Data security industry
- IT regulators
Why should you use this standard?
Cloud computing is transforming the way that organizations use ICT, but it can be a confusing area. The cloud promises to make systems and applications cheaper to build, as well as safer, simpler and more reliable to run. Because the field is growing so fast, with many and varied service providers, we are faced with an array of nebulous terminology, varying descriptions of how cloud services are used and operated, and a lack of clarity about what is being offered to the customer.
As a result, BS ISO/IEC 17788 has been developed, to provide a common vocabulary for cloud computing. It defines top level cloud computing roles, key elements such as cloud data types and looks at issues such as security, portability and interoperability.
It will help ensure compliance with the principles of the new Data Protection Act and boost customer confidence in cloud computing technologies.
