Researchers play a critical role in advancing our knowledge and understanding of the world around us. To do their jobs effectively, they need the right tools at their disposal. Jenay Robert, a senior researcher at EDUCAUSE, emphasizes the importance of utilizing the cloud to support research efforts and unify data models. She highlights the need for effective communication between IT departments and researchers to ensure a smooth transition to the public cloud.
At Bentley, the IT department recognized the diverse needs of faculty members and created different user personas to guide resource allocations. Initially focusing on users like “Jimmy” who require high-performance computing and storage, they discovered that most researchers are more like “Bob” who need a simple, fast machine with adequate storage capacity. By tailoring cloud environments to meet specific research needs, Bentley’s team ensures efficient resource allocation.
Matthew Gunkel, the CIO at the University of California, Riverside, also acknowledges the value of the cloud in solving resource constraints. Through a partnership with Google Cloud, the university gained access to cloud computing resources at a fixed subscription rate, allowing them to scale within their available resources. Gunkel highlights the immediate benefits of this partnership, including increased computing and storage capacity and streamlined research processes.
The Cloud Empowers Research Teams with Scalability
The collaboration between Google and UC Riverside exemplifies the potential of the cloud to enhance research capabilities. By providing access to a wide range of cloud computing resources, research teams can leverage instant scalability to support their projects. This transformative partnership not only boosts computing and storage capacity but also facilitates the adoption of cloud services for more efficient research practices.
