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SPONSORED CONTENT TO DEFENSE SYSTEMS T he cloud is not a one-size-fits-all commodity or product. Getting the cloud infrastructure you need—one that fits different layers of requirements, access and performance levels—works best when the government deals directly with a cloud provider that has a full set of capabilities, technologies and expertise. A good cloud provider, like CenturyLink, can work with you to build a system that is customized and flexible, based on your specific needs. With enterprise-grade infrastructure and access to enterprise-grade manufacturers and vendors, an experienced cloud provider knows how to make all of your systems and equipment work together seamlessly. A good cloud provider should also have the expertise to know when you can use a less expensive public-facing infrastructure for less sensitive information, and when you need more protection, or private clouds, for secure data. As is the case with any technology, standards are critical when it comes to cloud offerings. Traditionally, standards develop faster when government works with industry to identify the critical drivers. That method will encourage the adoption of cloud standards as well. It’s also a misconception that all systems must be fully compatible with all other systems. What is important is that the data can be understood, used on all systems and moved between systems easily. For example, Cisco equipment isn’t interoperable with Avaya, but that doesn’t mean that you need a broker in the middle to determine how to build a network. A simple protocol allows the data to move from one network to another. The same is true with cloud technology. In other words, it’s the data that matters—not the vehicle. Future innovation depends on how well cloud providers do their jobs and how quickly standardization evolves. Both of those events are, and should be, fueled by market forces and driven by end user requirements. The need for customized solutions based on those end user requirements is what spurs vendors to keep innovating. Performance-based contracts are another great way to keep innovation flowing. Once an agency describes its requirements to cloud vendors like CenturyLink, industry providers will instinctively develop innovative solutions to solve those needs. Do you really need a broker? While cloud computing clearly provides many benefits, government’s growing use of the cloud makes governance, secure collaboration, standardization and interoperability critically important issues. For the defense community, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) addresses these issues by functioning as a cloud broker. In that capacity, DISA is responsible for ensuring the interoperability of cloud functions among vendors. DISA’s approach to cloud brokerage is a sound one for both government and industry. It should help foster interoperability between cloud vendors and systems by working directly with industry providers, like CenturyLink to make it happen. “We’re at the same crossroads with the cloud that we were 20 years ago with the telecommunications industry, where there was no common protocol to make everything work together,” says Diana Gowen, senior vice president and general manager for CenturyLink Government. “Eventually, industry built the interfaces that would allow for common interoperability among telecommunications providers. That’s what’s happening in every area, from cybersecurity to common monitoring and optical switching. And that’s what’s going to happen with the cloud.” When designed and implemented properly, DISA’s cloud brokerage model will support the cloud ecosystem and advocate for it, thus fostering ongoing innovation— something government desperately needs. • For more information about CenturyLink Government’s services and offerings, please contact your agency’s representative or email us at [email protected]. For more information on CenturyLink, please go to: CenturyLink.com/federal THINK Making the Most of the Cloud THINK Diana Gowen Sr. Vice President and General Manager, CenturyLink Public Sector CM120450 3/13
