“Cloud computing may indeed become one of the backbones of our digital future”, stated Vice-President Kroes in a speech on “Cloud computing and data protection“. While discussing the potential opportunity that cloud computing represents, and that “the free movement of personal data within the EU is another way to help to complete the Digital Single Market in Europe”, she emphasized that the type of cloud we need is one with robust data protection. This is not optional; data protection is “a ‘must have’ feature for consumers, individuals and society in general.”

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said the company has learned from past mistakes and will not miss out as the industry continues a trend towards cloud services that are able to support work and entertainment from any location. “Cloud computing represents the next frontier,” Ballmer proclaimed during Microsoft’s recent annual meeting of Silicon Valley executives.  “We’ve been betting or investing in the cloud for about 10 years and in earnest for about six or seven years.”

Brad Jefferson, CEO of Animoto Productions: “Cloud computing is really a no-brainer for any start-up because it allows you to test your business plan very quickly for little money. Every start-up, or even a division within a company that has an idea for something new, should be figuring out how to use cloud computing in its plan,” (source: networkworld.com)