The European Commission wants feedback on how to manage its cloud computing strategy for Europe, where legislation is trailing behind the new technology.
Digital Agenda Commissioner Neelie Kroes launched a public consultation on Monday. Cloud computing is already in wide use in the European Union, with cloud services there expected to generate revenues of around €35 billion (US$50 billion) by 2014.
The Commission now wants all interested parties, especially cloud developers and cloud users, to explain their "experience, needs, expectations and insights into the use and provision of cloud computing." The consultation particularly wants to hear views on data protection and liability as well as standardization and interoperability issues.
"We need a well-defined cloud computing strategy to ensure that we make the best use of this potential. The input we are requesting from all interested parties is important to get it right," explained Kroes.
The online consultation will be open for feedback until Aug. 31. The responses will be used by the Commission to develop a European cloud computing strategy to be presented next year.
Follow Jennifer on Twitter at @BrusselsGeek or email tips and comments to jennifer_baker@idg.com.
Join the CIO Australia group on LinkedIn. The group is open to CIOs, IT Directors, COOs, CTOs and senior IT managers.