Cloud computing is a new, important IT delivery model that provides infrastructure and computer resources as a service. This new paradigm, the next phase in the evolution of distributed computing, enables enterprises to transform IT by implementing private clouds. It leverages the power of sharing and enables increased utilization rates of IT resources, more rapid and efficient delivery of IT services, faster time to market, and reduced IT capital and operating expenditures.

This white paper examines the evolution of private clouds and discusses how many organizations that have implemented grid or virtual machines are moving towards private clouds. It also describes how organizations can successfully implement this new IT delivery model using a phased approach that starts with cloud management software. In addition, the white paper highlights common use cases featuring Platform Computing customers that are on the forefront of cloud computing. It underlines the fact that "Cloud is built, not bought."