- OpenStack Advances as Corporate Open Cloud Platform of Choice in 2014
- Public Support From Large Enterprises
- Expansion Into New Industries
- Entering the Mainstream
- The Year of the OpenStack Ambassador
- The Community Becomes More Inclusive
- Deployment Gets Easier
- Focus on Training and Development
- Growth Rate Increases
OpenStack Advances as Corporate Open Cloud Platform of Choice in 2014
by Darryl K. Taft
Public Support From Large Enterprises
If 2013 served as the test case for OpenStack within the enterprise, 2014 will serve as the year in which enterprise-grade deployments will become not just publicly visible but will be disclosed by big-name end users, as well.
Expansion Into New Industries
OpenStack will see several different industries implement enterprise-wide clouds. Industries with critical dependence on IT, such as R&D, health care, manufacturing and government, will begin to realize the value a flexible cloud offering can provide.
Entering the Mainstream
More people outside the IT department will begin to know how the cloud can truly improve their efficiency. So whether you’re in marketing or human resources, if you’re in need of IT services, you will begin to see firsthand the difference the cloud makes in streamlining all workloads. And OpenStack will be an attractive cloud offering to many mainstream companies.
The Year of the OpenStack Ambassador
Growing participation in OpenStack will mean a growing number of advocates from more places. Look for OpenStack’s visibility to increase due to the larger variety of supporters in its fan club. And outspoken leaders will emerge.
The Community Becomes More Inclusive
As the community grows, it’s a challenge to inject fresh perspectives into the core of the project, but it must find a way to do so. Look for new programs and networking opportunities to bring the community closer together.
Deployment Gets Easier
One of OpenStack’s largest criticisms is that it’s not user friendly. There has been substantial investment and participation to promote ease of deployment. Look for this investment to pay off this year.
Focus on Training and Development
OpenStack is placing a greater emphasis on formalizing its training and development program, similar to other areas of open-source certification. Look for a greater degree of formality in OpenStack education over the next year.
Growth Rate Increases
Many project OpenStack’s growth will slow due to its sustained increases over the past couple of years. The opposite will take place; as the project expands into new industries and lines of business, Clark projects increased growth this year.