Cloud Computing Wargame Players Explore the Potential of Blending IT Acquisition Strategies at FOSE
March 13 – Wargame helps give participants a more tangible understanding of cloud computing and the potential it holds.
For three days in March, Booz Allen Hamilton’s cloud computing wargames at FOSE gave players a chance to explore the potential of blending IT acquisition strategies to support agencies’ missions in an entertaining, competitive environment.
Many of the players signed up because while they had heard the term “cloud computing,” and were unsure of its elements or how it could apply to their organization.
“I don’t think enough agencies are clear on [the concept of] cloud computing,” said Philip Whatley of the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency, after he played. “That’s one reason I signed up, for the clarity I can take back to the agency.”
Another participant, Gayle Bracy, works for a federal civilian agency. She said the wargame helped her realize what the building blocks for cloud computing should be; at the same time, she found the game also stressed the need for the appropriate level of human resources.
Norma Jones-Sanders of the National Defense University appreciated the group approach to the game.
“It takes a lot of teamwork. Once you know what your team’s skills are, it’s an excellent learning experience,” she said. “I had a good time – it was almost like Vegas.”
Greg Dupier, Booz Allen’s master of ceremonies for the wargames, said players appreciate his firm taking the nebulous term “cloud computing” and giving it tangible meaning. In particular, he said, as they came to understand the cloud’s potential, many discovered there is a balance to be sought between cloud computing and more common forms of IT.
“There are things that are not as well suited to the cloud,” he said. “Investing in traditional IT capabilities in some areas, while building capacity in cloud-based resources for others, was a good takeaway for participants,” Dupier added.
The wargame made its formal debut at FOSE, said Booz Allen Principal Rod Fontecilla. The next step is for the game to be taken to client sites, where teams will get their own chance to learn while playing. Several clients already have expressed an interest, he said.
story posted March 13, 2009
