Canada
Cloud Computing

Cloud Computing and the Canadian Environment

The Canadian Government's CTO of Public Works Government Services, Jirka Danek, recently presented a paper on Cloud Computing and the Canadian Environment. Essentially, the paper outlines the Canadian Government’s intention to persue cloud computing. It discusses the advantages of their vast landscape and cold climate(among other things) as prime reasons for the construction of large energy efficient Cloud Computing data centers.

The following are excerpts from the report:

The move towards Cloud Computing is inevitable and it is happening across the globe and Canada has a definite advantage on other countries around the world.

Due to it's geographical characteristics, cooler temperatures and low-density population (particularly as one moves farther north in Canada), IT expertise, quality construction standards, legislative framework (including the Privacy Act and the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Document Act) and low-cost green energy, Canada is considered a prime location for Cloud Computing.

Canadians Can benefit through prompt, coordinated and sustained action within Canada, across jurisdictions, and through private-public partnerships.

Canada also needs to show leadership on the international scene, starting with its southern neighbor, the United States, who could become one of Canada's best allies and supporter since Cloud Computing supports the President's agenda and Corporate America's next step.

There exists an opportunity for the Government of Canada to show leadership through the development of a broader Cloud Computing vision. A coordinated effort with Canada's private sector leaders in the field would be beneficial.

The Government of Canada could also engage provincial, territorial and municipal counterparts in defining Canada's Cloud Computing position through a comprehensive Canadian Cloud Computing Strategy.