(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Citizens Against Government Waste published an educational report that aims to familiarize taxpayers and lawmakers with the basics of cloud computing.  The Obama administration’s “Federal Cloud Computing Strategy” report, published on February 8, 2011, instituted a “Cloud First policy … intended to accelerate the pace at which the government will realize the value of cloud computing by requiring agencies to evaluate safe, secure cloud computing options before making any new investments.”  But what exactly is cloud computing, and how can it streamline government services?  More important, how can it save taxpayers money?  CAGW’s “Cloud Computing 101” provides answers to these questions.

“Cloud computing has the potential to dramatically increase the efficiency of government information technology (IT) and reduce costs,” said CAGW President Tom Schatz.  “Government agencies at all levels should procure IT while following rigorous policies and principles for evaluating cloud computing proposals, especially in regard to security, reliability, and long-term cost of acquisition. 

“The government’s track record on IT procurement is littered with project failures and wasteful spending.  In order to avoid such problems, it is vital that purchasers and users of cloud technology understand and address the risks associated with lax security practices and build protective infrastructure before rushing headlong into the new technology,” added Schatz.  “These are the goals of ‘Cloud Computing 101.’  Taxpayers and members of Congress should fully understand the implications of a ‘Cloud First’ policy.” 

Concerns over the safety of cloud computing do not mean that cloud computing should be avoided as a means to reduce government inefficiency.  “Cloud Computing 101” is the first installment in CAGW’s effort to prepare taxpayers and policymakers for the transition to cloud computing, highlighting the potential risks and benefits that will come with the new technology.  “Cloud Computing 201,” due out later this year, will provide a checklist for government procurement officers who must become demanding, fastidious customers with the interests of taxpayers foremost in their minds. 

Citizens Against Government Waste is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating waste, fraud, mismanagement and abuse in government.