5.2.2 Role of vCloud Infrastructure Operations COE in Standardization
In a traditional organization, IT is driven by multiple business units. The business units control IT funding and each business unit (BU) can enforce separate policies and procedures for their infrastructure. This approach leads to disjointed architectures and a lack of standardization. IT groups that support such an environment struggle to achieve agreed operating levels, leading to end-user frustration, IT support inefficiencies, and possibly even financial liability. The implementation of a vCloud changes this scenario.
A vCloud is built as a shared resource that requires enforcement of consistent standards across the entire IT organization. To define and enforce these standards, all infrastructure policies and procedures associated with the vCloud should be driven by the vCloud Infrastructure Operations COE team rather than from business units. This shift poses a significant challenge for organizations who try to move into a vCloud-appropriate infrastructure operating model. The vCloud Infrastructure Operations COE needs to negotiate with different business groups and rely on executive sponsorship and support during this transition. More rigorous standards need to apply across the whole organization.
One recommended approach is to align vCloud Tenant Operations with the organizations’ phased development approach, adding a vCloud-first policy during the analysis and design phase for all new projects. Other recommendations include running vCloud Tenant Operations-driven assessments on applications that are being considered for migration to the vCloud. Assessments determine gaps and set expectations with business units on expected changes. The key to success is the ability to balance agility to meet business needs with stringent enforcement of defined standards within the vCloud.