Cloud analytics is a service model where elements of the data analytics process are provided through public or private clouds. These services are typically offered on a subscription or pay-per-use basis. Examples include hosted data warehouses, SaaS BI, and social media analytics. Cloud analytics competencies that support clients include analytics strategy, business intelligence, analytics and optimization, and content management. Cloud analytics works by combining hardware, middleware, and platforms that provide data reporting, analytics techniques, storage optimization, and data warehouse management. Benefits include getting the right information when needed, identifying information sources, and designing policies faster to increase profits, reduce cycle times, and reduce defects.