Phase-in and Cloud Computing

LaRon Walker

Master of Information Technology and Internet Security

August, 2010

The phase-in technique can be applied to many different aspects in regards to Information

Technology (IT). This includes implementing new processes, hardware, or applications into

some or all departments across a business. Whether the participants are in large or small groups,

phasing-in a new component into any structure can help create a smooth and transparent

transition.

Using the phase-in technique to introduce hosted services and cloud computing into the

business infrastructure of Kucera Clothiers would be very beneficial. The proposed

implementation of IBM’s Lotus Notes for Collaboration using hosted services would be easy to

pilot to a small group of employees without disrupting other IT functions. When used along

with IBM’s Infrastructure Strategy and Design Services for Cloud Computing, aspects of

phasing-in new components are addressed, as well as other strategic design and analysis. Based

on the findings by Barr (2010), IBM’s consultants help analyze their customers’ existing

environments, then determines the cloud computing model best suited for their business, along

with align their IT with their business needs. 

The main risk analysis that would need to be performed is what benefits and drawbacks

of implementing this new strategy would have on Kucera Clothiers. According to the article

IBM Cloud Computing Strategy Services, by using IBM’s “pain vs. gain” analysis to prioritize
workloads, these risks could be identified and addressed. Overall, using IBM in conjunction

with hosted services and cloud computing technologies, not only will Kucera enjoy the benefits

of easily phasing-in the new technologies and processes, but will have the ability to analyze the

process during implementation, along with saving money on IT overhead.

References

Barr, J. (2010). IBM Cloud Computing Strategy Services. Faulkner Information Services.

Retrieved August 15, 2010 from

http://www.faulkner.com.wf2dnvr8.webfeat.org/products/faccts/00021063.htm

Marquardt, M., Leonard, H., Freedman, A., & Hill, C. (2009). Best practices in planning and

implementing action learning programs. Action learning for developing leaders and

organizations: Principles, strategies, and cases (pp. 241-271). American Psychological

Association. doi:10.1037/11874-011.