The hype around cloud computing has tipped over from the peak of inflated expectations' into the trough of disillusionment', according to Gartner's latest Hype Cycle report.
Cloud computing joins NFC payments and internet TV in the list of emerging and maturing technologies that have moved noticeably along the Hype Cycle in the past 12 months, having been amongst the most hyped in 2011. They now begin their descent into the trough of disillusionment'.
The Hype Cycle graphic has been used by analysts Gartner since 1995 to show the common pattern of over enthusiasm, disillusionment and eventual realism that accompanies each new technology and innovation.
"The theme of this year's Hype Cycle is the concept of 'tipping points.' We are at an interesting moment, a time when many of the scenarios we've been talking about for a long time are almost becoming reality," said Hung LeHong, research vice president at Gartner
Not all cloud technologies have exited the hype phase, however. Hybrid cloud in particular is only just entering the peak of inflated expectations', where I joins bring your own device' and big data.
The challenge now for those in the cloud industry, according to the Cloud Industry Forum (CIF), is to safely transition from the trough of disillusionment' to the next stage of the cycle, the slope of enlightenment'.
"A primary challenge that we constantly face is one of definition," said Andy Burton, chairman of CIF. "The liberal application of the term cloud' only serves to dilute its meaning and confuse the market which in turn can inhibit the performance of legitimate and credible Cloud Service Providers.
"CIF has been campaigning for some time for the introduction of industry-wide standardised definitions of cloud services to provide end users with much needed clarity and to increase adoption of best practice among providers offering cloud services."
