Q & A With Eric Berridge, Co-Founder and CEO of Bluewolf
We recently sat down for an interview with Eric Berridge, Co-Founder and CEO of Bluewolf. We were fortunate enough to steal a few minutes from Eric Berridge’s busy schedule to talk to him about the future of Cloud Computing and what tips he has for companies trying to make a smooth transition to the cloud. Eric was a key component in this year’s IT symposium and shared the stage with Jesse Strittmater, CIO of Life Fitness for a case study presentation.
1. MTL: As an expert in Cloud Computing, can you describe the necessary first steps to implementing a successful cloud strategy?
BERRIDGE: Before implementing the cloud, you first need to understand what the cloud is best used for. My advice is to not fall in love with the cloud because it’s a cool, new technology. For best results, do not try to replicate applications that are already in use such as ERP and premise based applications. New users should understand that the cloud needs to be used to deploy innovative business processes across all departments. Identifying the new business processes to be implemented through the cloud, such as CRM and Marketing Automation is the first step in developing a successful strategy.
2. MTL: Where do you see Cloud Computing leading to in the future? Can you give your professional forecast?
BERRIDGE: As of right now there are multiple definitions of what cloud computing is, however, a baseline definition is needed. At Bluewolf, we consider it to be a consolidation of all computer resources for the ability to receive immediate scale and elasticity to a company. It is the ultimate shared computer environment. Cloud Computing is another paradigm shift; in the past we went from the mainframe to a client server to web applications and are now at the cloud. In five years we will not be talking about the cloud, we will be talking about its applications and best processes; similar to what we are doing in the end phase of the internet.
3. MTL: What tips do you have for companies on a small budget wanting to make a smooth transition to the cloud?
BERRIDGE: Start small. Unlike other initiatives, cloud computing has the ability to work with small budgets until the ability to go deeper is available. Begin by picking your innovative business process that will create the biggest impact and allow for building functionality as you progress.
4. MTL: Favorite technology device from the past or the present?
BERRIDGE: My DROID phone for its integration capabilities. We use Google for all of our online collaboration from our contacts, email addresses and documents; we no longer have to worry about DBA and servers. This means that I have everything available to me from my phone at all times. Google will automatically link my contacts, phone numbers, email addresses and social media information. DROID offers simple quality integration that goes a long way in business application.
To see all speakers at this year’s symposium, visit www.midwesttechnologyleaders.com.
