new business model. These service providers provide the basic computing resources at the
infrastructure layer, the standard platform service in the middle layer, and executable,
mature business application software at the upper layer. The users can apply for different
cloud services based on their needs. The cooperation of the following four characters in
cloud: cloud-based data center operators, the cloud infrastructure service providers, the
cloud platform service providers, and the cloud application service providers, formed a
service oriented partnership in the cloud environment. By adding the hardware, software,
Internet structure solution providers, system integrators, and consultants service providers;
they formed a cloud computing service industry chain. Coupled with authorities of regulation
development and compliance, and the end users of public and private sectors, the entire
eco-system is formed. Each role directly or indirectly affects the decisions of other roles.
As shown below, in the cloud service industry chain, many companies are both cloud service
providers and IT enabled cloud services providers. Technological cloud service providers are
generally users of IaaS (Internet database center) and PaaS, and they provide SaaS
services to individual and business end users. They need to face issues such as cloud
infrastructure environment, system integration, information interchange, settlement among
supply chain partners, accounting system, tax compliance requirements, and the protection
of end-user personal information and business information. The most comprehensive
planning and assessment need to be conducted before offering cloud services.
Figure 6‐ 1 Cloud Service Ecosystem
Source: MIC/III, 2010, itSMA edited
