Cloud computing is revolutionizing all aspects of information technology. Many companies and organizations rely on their own internal IT departments to operate their specific applications, databases and programs. The cloud allows them to break ties with internal servers and receive all of their computing needs from an external cloud provider. The cloud is faster and easier to use than traditional infrastructure, which often makes it more cost-effective. Several private companies have already moved to the cloud, and the federal government has ordered each agency to identify at least three "must-move" services and migrate them to the cloud by mid-2012. (Scharff, 2011) When an organization decides to launch an IT application they must establish an infrastructure using their own IT department. Initial investments go into servers, data storage, software, and personnel to design and support the system. Depending on the size and intensity of the application, the system may take some time to function properly. Once the application is operational, increased usage and growth as well as hardware or software failures can impact performance or corrupt the entire system. The cloud transforms computing into a resource accessible anywhere, similar to a utility. Comparable to the electrical grid that surrounds America, users simply connect via an Internet connection and pay for what they use. (Scharff, 2011) Cloud providers offer computing resources that support all types of applications as well as compatible hardware, software, and programs. Organizations connect to a third-party cloud provider that delivers and designs an application to meet their unique business needs. Users benefit from constant system upgrade...... middle of paper ......ferent aspects which provide multiple opportunities for cloud providers to benefit from IT transformation. Cloud providers will develop ways to alleviate users' concerns about the cloud so that they are more confident in the transition. The benefits that the Cloud offers to organizations, combined with its unlimited potential, make Cloud expansion inevitable. Works Cited Scharff, N. (2011, June 13). Fly into the cloud. Fortune, 163(8), s2-s18. Wenzel, E. (May 16, 2011). Migrating to the cloud isn't for everyone: what to consider first. PC World. Retrieved from http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/227189 Kolakowski, N. (April 13, 2011). Oracle Cloud Strategy: Cover All Angles. e-Week. Retrieved from http://www.eweek.com/c/a/Cloud-Computing/398824Salesforce (2011). What is cloud computing?. Retrieved from http://www.salesforce.com/cloudcomputing.