Top 5 cloud trends transforming businesses in 2024
Technology is changing rapidly. To effectively build a resilient and future-proof business powered by the cloud, you need to know what trends are predicted to shape cloud computing.
Some IT leaders and managers may already be proactively embracing these trends, as they implement their cloud plans and strategies in the new year. Either way, these will soon be almost impossible to ignore.
Here are the five top trends you need to be across in 2024:
1. Hybrid and multi-cloud strategies
Embracing a hybrid and multi-cloud approach is no longer a nice-to-have —it’s a must for organisations seeking optimal flexibility and resource utilisation.
In 2024, the number of organisations using a multi-cloud or diverse strategy is expected to rise to 85%. A hybrid and multi-cloud strategy enables organisations to leverage the strengths of different cloud providers and avoid vendor lock-in. By strategically distributing workloads across various cloud platforms, businesses can boost performance, optimise scalability, increase security and ensure resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges.
2. ‘Zero-Trust’ cloud security
In an era where cybersecurity threats are more sophisticated than ever, a proactive approach to security is key. Companies are increasingly leaning into the ‘Zero-Trust’ model, emphasising continuous verification and authorisation, even for users within the network perimeter.
As we head into 2024, executives must continue to prioritise investment in robust security measures, ensuring data protection, compliance, and the ability to withstand evolving cyber threats.
3. Edge computing
As Internet of Things (IoT) devices continue to dominate the market, its need for low-latency processing has propelled edge computing to the forefront of cloud trends. Edge computing involves processing data closer to the “edge” of the network —reducing latency and enhancing real-time decision-making.
This year, it’s predicted that more organisations will be looking to use edge computing in their services and products —and cloud will play an integral role in the development of this technology.
4. AI and Machine Learning
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into cloud services is becoming a game-changer. AI-as-a-Service (AIaaS) lets organisations access and implement advanced AI and ML capabilities without the need for in-house specialists, or access to the intense resources needed to power some of the larger AI models being used today (looking at you, ChatGPT!).
This democratisation of AI allows for enhanced data analysis, predictive modelling, and automation, driving innovation across various business functions —without diverting resources from other parts of the business.
5. Real-time cloud computing
The way decision-makers approach analytics has changed. Now, real-time and instant data is in high demand. Real-time cloud computing enables this instant data access and analysis, facilitating quicker decision-making and response times. From customer interactions to supply chain management, the ability to process and act on data in real-time has completely transformed business operations.
By providing scalable and on-demand resources, the cloud has not only fueled the demand for instant data access but has also democratised advanced computing capabilities —and we expect this to continue as more and more businesses reap the rewards of always-on data analytics.
Final thoughts
Navigating the cloud landscape in 2024 requires a strategic mindset and a proactive approach. Stay ahead of the curve, and lead your organisation into a future where cloud technology is not just a tool but a transformative force driving business excellence.
If you’re ready to upskill your team and empower them, take a look at our training directory to get started. Or, get in touch to talk about personalised organisational learning pathways to get your company armed and ready for the year to come.
