I've been hearing a lot about the computing cloud lately. Cloud storage software, cloud nodes, cloud architecture, cloud apps...references to cloud computing abound. The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer did a piece on it a few weeks ago,so you know it has entered popular culture.
Although the idea is still a little hazy to me (with a 50% chance of clearing), I've figured out that it's a way of conceptualizing the trend away from storing and using information on your own PC or organization's network to doing everything online via whatever device may be handy...your smart phone, your laptop, what-have-you.
Actually, this is a concept that I've been thinking about alot lately, although I didn't know it was called cloud computing. Here are some possible ways to use the cloud: Don't host your site on your network server, put it up on the open web in a wiki format where everyone can get to it and contribute content. Create your presentation in Slideshare, don't carry it around on some thumb drive you'll lose or forget to bring to the presentation. Write your report as a Google Doc, not in a docx file format that no one can open unless they happen to have the correct version of Microsoft Office. It goes without saying, of course, that you are aware of HIPAA rules and regulations and are sensitive to your organization's privacy and proprietary issues. So don't be hanging around on the ground if you can take it to the cloud. Up, up and away.
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
Unofficial ideas and opinions on information and library-related issues from the staff at SFGH's Barnett-Briggs Medical Library.
1 comment:
The flexibility and access to your creations from anywhere in the world with internet access is enticing. Just be sure to backup any creation you would be unhappy to lose, by saving a copy on your computer or thumb drive. I also use cloud locations (Google Docs) as a back up spot for important documents on my computer.- Terri
Post a Comment