More on Cloud Computing

Simon Wardley posted a blog explaining the difference between two words that are key to understanding cloud computing and the value it brings. The two words are Commodification and Commoditization.

The following is a quote from cnet explaining the difference.

• Commodification (mid to late 1970s, Word) is used to describe the process by which something which does not have an economic value is assigned a value and hence how market values can replace other social values. It describes a modification of relationships, formerly untainted by commerce, into commercial relationships.

• Commoditization (early to mid 1990s, Neologism) is the process by which goods that have economic value and are distinguishable in terms of attributes (uniqueness or brand) end up becoming simple commodities in the eyes of the market or consumers. It is the movement of a market from differentiated to undifferentiated price competition, from monopolistic to perfect competition.

These two concepts are at the root of many debates and theories about cloud computing. One of the theories is based around that cloud computing is the "end of infrastructure differentiation". Another theory states that the cloud will be at a more granular level. Others feels that the two theories can not exist side by side. The market has already spawned "Cloud Service Brokers" that offer a blend of services. The author, James Urquhart feels that in the end the market will decide.

There is so much more information on this post on cnet. Besides Simon Wardley's blog is a really cool blog spot. You should read it.

Questions about Blogging

I have been playing with my new toy of blogging for the last hour. I have made some comments to other posts as well as I made two blog posts. I then have come across a couple of questions about blogging that may be easily answered and will help me from here on out.

I noticed that when I make a comment back to a post, I could not find an area where I could also include a link. Is this possible and I just have slipped the spot where that is easily done? Or is this something that blogging could add in the future?

I also was curious about my blog posts. Is there an easy way to access your blog posts quickly with what you have only written? Also the thought process of this, how do I find out quickly who responds to my posts? Is an e-mail sent to me if I set it up that tells me when a comment was posted. Or do I just have to search for it and keep looking around.

I found a link of common questions about blogs. It looks like the trackback is what would answer my last question. I just need more information so this could be as smooth as possible.