The list of advantages to cloud computing include lowered operational costs, greater technological flexibility and the ability to rapidly implement new systems or services. However, cloud computing has also opened up new opportunities for impact by security threats or lost data.

The purpose of this policy, written by Scott Matteson for TechRepublic Premium, is to provide guidelines for secure and effective cloud computing operations to ensure the integrity and privacy of company-owned information.

Featured text from the policy:

Cloud computing services and storage will be implemented, administered and maintained by the IT department. This includes provisioning of accounts, setting passwords, configuring access, administering storage and managing services. Cloud services are not to be conducted by users in a self-service fashion except where explicitly permitted by the IT department and/or office of security.

The IT department shall test cloud computing services via a pilot program or proof of concept before conducting a full-scale rollout. The testing phase should ensure that operational, security and compliance needs are met before proceeding. It should also factor in the use of the devices that employees will operate, including desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones, to ensure full compatibility.

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TIME SAVED: Crafting this content required 16 hours of dedicated writing, editing and research.