The document discusses how automation is essential for the success of cloud computing. Without automation, operational costs will increase due to the complexity of dynamically scaling and distributing cloud resources. The document argues that most legacy systems cannot currently be migrated to the cloud and that automation is needed to manage cloud infrastructure and applications. Specifically, an "autopilot system" is needed to make automated decisions and recombine existing technical knowledge to perform tasks like provisioning, configuration management, and root cause analysis. With such automation in place, the document claims that cloud computing can deliver on its promised benefits of reduced costs, increased innovation, and environmental sustainability.