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About the Code

Cloud Computing is a growth area in New Zealand and around the world and represents a significant opportunity for user of technology as well as providers both domestically and globally.

However the reputation of the Cloud Computing community in NZ is threatened by the lack of standards and practice guidelines.  This, combined with a lack of understanding of the accepted definitions of “cloud computing” and what it entails, results in a situation where services are being offered that don’t meet what are generally considered acceptable standards of practice.

As a consequence the reputation of the industry as a whole is threatened due to reduced trust in cloud computing offerings.

Additionally, implementation of a voluntary Code of Practice for Cloud providers will contribute to New Zealand’s reputation as being at the forefront of good practice provision, especially important given the opportunities inherent in Cloud Computing for New Zealand to compete on the global stage.

The New Zealand Cloud Computing Code of Practice is intended to address many of the social and industry focused challenges.

Support

The NZ Cloud Code Initiative is supported by many of New Zealand’s most prominent cloud providers as well as international cloud leaders such as Google and Microsoft.

Financial contributors to the project include Xero, Gen-I, Equinox, OneNet, Webdrive, Google, Salesforce.com, InternetNZ, NZRise, EOSS Online Ltd, Systems Advisory Services and NZCS.

Terms of Reference

A terms of reference document has been published and outlines the the principals, objectives, deliverables and structure of the project.  A copy of the terms of reference is available here.

Principles

The following principles will be applied to all facets of the development of the Code:

  1.  Not reinventing the wheel
    Where possible, the NZ Cloud Computing Code of Practice should leverage existing work in New Zealand and abroad and give clear preference to established prior work over creation.
  2. Consistency with global practice and standards
    A core part of this initiative is researching approaches taken to addressing the core issues in overseas jurisdictions, to ensure the result is consistent with practices in other countries.
  3. Research based non-arbitrary approach
    The recommendations and resultant Code will be developed based on demonstrable good practice and decisions taken based on sound research-based principles.
  4. Facilitation of development with wide consultation
    The role of NZCS and the project team is to facilitate the development of the Code in consultation with as broad a range of stakeholders as possible and practical.
  5. Preference for consensus-based result
    The Project Team will work towards a consensus view in terms of the structure and content of the Code. While consensus does not mean unanimous, the intention is to gain the wide support of a broad range of stakeholders.
  6. Clear separation between governance of process and development of Code
    The Steering Group will govern the process, ensure the principles are adhered to and test the evidence-based approach, however will not guide or influence the final result and Code.
  7. Compliance and Assessment
    It is not the intention of the exercise to place undue or unnecessary compliance costs or processes on those that may wish to adhere to the Code once developed, over and above what is necessary for the integrity of the Code.