This global survey shows increased adoption of infrastructure utility and cloud infrastructure as a service, with more than 200 contracts in place already, and many more expected in the next 12 months. The survey also clarifies the players and low-cost requirements.

We review and assess the fundamental vertical industry strategies of the software "megavendors" (IBM, Microsoft, Oracle and SAP) using the framework for business value/IT productivity that we call the "Industry Strategy Effectiveness" grid.

Application infrastructure (middleware) is an essential enabling technology for business applications, whether deployed on- or off-premises. This research looks at the segmentation and emerging trends in application infrastructure for cloud computing, also known as cloud platform as a service.

IT leaders would have a much better chance of getting the required funding for their projects if their proposal is backed by a sound business case and financial justifications that have a clear line of visibility on the ROI and payback period.

CenturyLink's planned acquisition of Savvis, along with its recent purchase of Qwest, will inject capital and resources into its cloud business. However, a second large acquisition in a year could also disrupt services.