Trust and transparency are the aim
The Cloud Industry Forum (CIF), a sub-group of FAST, is setting up a code of conduct to help customers spot the cowboys from trustworthy cloud providers.
Cif will set up the framework for supplier self-regulation, which will cover issues such as financial viability, legal status of the supplier, location of premises, where data is hosted and service levels. Membership will be voluntary and companies will be able to grade themselves on their services, but CIF will audit that information for accuracy.
Overall, the aim is to promote trust, security and transparency within the industry, so customers can make informed decisions about which provider best meets their needs.
“We can help customers determine what’s behind that website – whether the company has just a machine in a garage or a data centre. This initiative is to help companies become more transparent,” said Andy Burton, chairman of CIF and director of hosting company Fasthosts.
A draft release of the code of conduct will be available in January with official launch e scheduled by April/May at the latest. Any company interested in getting involved should email roz.parkinson@fastiis.org or visit FAST’s website.


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