Understanding Cloud Management Platforms (CMPs)

What is a cloud management platform?

A cloud management platform (CMP) is a collection of integrated software tools that organizations can utilize to monitor and manage their cloud environments. While CMPs can be used for private or public cloud deployments, they are particularly beneficial for hybrid and multi-cloud environments, allowing organizations to centralize control over different cloud infrastructures.

The features of a CMP can vary depending on the vendor, with some offering broad sets of tools, while others cater to specific industries. CMPs can be delivered as on-premises applications or as cloud services like Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), or Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Overall, cloud management encompasses the administration of public, private, hybrid, and multi-cloud setups.

Capabilities of a cloud management platform

According to the Cloud Standards Customer Council, a CMP should offer various largely automated capabilities:

• General services provide user service catalogs with self-service capabilities and reporting features.
• Service management aids IT teams in monitoring cloud services and planning workloads.
• Resource management offers tools to manage virtual machines, storage, and networks.
• Financial management aids in tracking cloud spending and generating reports.
• Governance enables policy-based control of cloud resources.
• Security includes measures like encryption and identity management.
• Integration supports access to both internal and external IT systems.

Benefits of a cloud management platform

Implementing a CMP can offer numerous advantages, including:

• Reducing infrastructure complexity by integrating cloud and local environments.
• Improving service quality through effective monitoring and analytics.
• Accelerating cloud migration initiatives to ease the process of moving workloads.
• Simplifying management making complex tasks easier for users.
• Supporting governance and regulations by tracking compliance efforts.
• Cost savings through efficient management and reporting.

Challenges of cloud management platforms

Despite their benefits, CMPs also face challenges, such as:

• Platform resiliency and reliability, which need to account for outages and connectivity issues.
• Data security and privacy risks that require robust measures to protect sensitive information.
• Compliance standards that must be diligently monitored due to constantly changing regulations.
• Single vendor lock-in which could restrict access to better solutions.
• Staffing needs skilled professionals to manage and oversee CMP efforts.
• Interoperability challenges in integrating existing infrastructure.

Examples of cloud management platforms

Various CMPs are available, both from specific cloud providers and third-party vendors. Some notable examples include BMC Software's Multi-cloud Management platform, Broadcom's VMware Tanzu CloudHealth, and CloudBolt, which facilitates hybrid cloud operations. Each offers unique features and benefits tailored to different organizational needs.

Cloud management platforms and cloud strategy

While CMPs provide powerful tools, they should be part of a larger cloud management strategy that encompasses technology, skill sets, and processes necessary for achieving business goals. A successful CMP should enable seamless control across cloud environments, support agile management, ensure compliance, and proactively enhance performance while addressing challenges that arise.