Cloud computing availability is an important concern as businesses increasingly rely on cloud services. The document outlines characteristics of cloud environments like automation and unique cost structures. It discusses examples of failures at Amazon and Google and how lack of standardization can lead to lock-in. The author recommends cloud providers improve availability through redundancy, transparency, services, SLAs and engineering solutions. Users are advised to identify critical apps, plan for disasters, and use third party research when selecting cloud providers.

1. Cloud Computing-Availability Scott Page

2. Agenda Characteristics of a Cloud EnvironmentImportance of AvailabilityExamples of Cloud FailuresCloud Lock-inWhat Cloud Providers should do to Improve AvailabilityWhat Cloud Users should do to Improve Availability

3. Characteristics of a Cloud EnvironmentProcessing is done by the Cloud ProviderAutomation of Processing PowerUnique Cost Structure

4. Importance of AvailabilityOne of the top concerns of Chief Information OfficersCloud Computing for businesses is expected to grow 25% per year to US $55.5 Billion by 2014

5. Examples of Cloud FailuresAmazonGoogle

6. Cloud Lock-inLack of standardization in cloud deployment models

7. What Cloud Providers should do to Improve AvailabilityData RedundancyBetter TransparencyOffer Cloud Optimization ServicesOffer SLA AgreementIncorporate Engineering Solutions to Hardware ProblemsOffer an Efficient Cloud Computing System

8. What Cloud Users should do to Improve AvailabilityDetermine which Applications are Mission CriticalDisaster/Continuity PlanningUse Research Gathered by Third Parties

9. The End