The Defense Department yesterday released its cloud computing strategy that aims to implement a cloud computing environment to efficiently and more affordably deliver information technology (IT) services anywhere and anytime throughout the department.
Moving to a cloud computing environment is designed to help DoD steer away from “duplicative” and “costly” application silos so that IT is more responsive and agile to mission needs.
“We are moving to an enterprise cloud environment that provides tangible benefits across the department by supporting the delivery of the joint information environment, from the continental United States to the warfighter at the tactical edge,” Teri Takai, chief information officer at DoD, said in a statement. “This strategy lays the groundwork, as part of the Joint Information Environment (JIE) framework, for achieving cloud adoption within the department. It focuses on the creation of department core data centers, enterprise cloud infrastructure and sustainment of cloud services.”
The strategy defines the JIE as a “robust and resilient enterprise that delivers faster, better informed collaboration and decisions enabled by secure, seamless access to information regardless of computing device or location.”
The strategy also addresses the use of commercial cloud services.
DoD, like other federal departments and agencies, is moving IT services to the cloud environment to improve efficiencies and respond to budget austerity.
The strategy also highlights challenges associated with the move to cloud computing, including cyber security, information assurance, continuity of operations, and resilience.
“Additional challenges include service acquisition and funding sustainment, data migration and management, and overcoming network dependence at the tactical edge (disconnected, intermittent and low-bandwidth users).”
DoD yesterday also designated the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) as its enterprise cloud service broker.
DISA will work to achieve IT efficiencies and improved reliability through cloud service offerings by managing the use, performance, and delivery of cloud services. The agency will also negotiate relationships between cloud providers and cloud consumers.
In a statement yesterday, DISA said that its “intent is to promote the use of cloud computing services available within the government and private (commercial) sector that provide the best capability at lowest cost with the appropriate level of performance and security protections.”