Cloud computing is the delivery of IT resources via the internet, with users typically paying only for the cloud services that they use. Instead of buying, owning and maintaining physical data centres and servers, companies save on the capital expenses of owning hardware and software. This gives them access to technology services, such as computing power storage and databases, from a cloud provider. The three main providers that dominate the global cloud market are Amazon Web Services with the largest market share, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform.
However, a recent State of the Cloud report published by computer software company Flexera, estimated that over 30% of cloud spending is wasted. Optimising the use of cloud-spend is now a top priority among cloud users. Gerard Downes is a software development consultant who has created a service platform that gives Amazon Web Services customers a deeper insight into their cloud infrastructure and cloud spending.
Gerard’s company HexLabs Ltd has developed Klouds.io as a software-as-a-service platform that provides detailed visualisation and cost analysis tools. At the moment, it is hard to know what cloud resources a company is using at any time, with no clear inventory provided. The HexLabs initiative allows businesses to analyse this in fine detail and to better understand their cloud costs and usage.
Gerard joined the Regional Talent Engines programme in 2022. He says: “When we joined, we needed pitching practice. Our problem domain is complex, we needed to refine our message and find the best way to present our solution. We have found the scheme’s training workshops invaluable for improving, refining and validating our product.”
HexLabs has recently trialled a version of its proof-of-concept product with selected customers. The company’s team is now working on creating an early version of the application for the general public that will be tested to gain more user feedback. With cloud computer spending due to rise by 20% a year, this innovation would reach the market at a crucial time.
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