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What are Strategic Cloud Platform Services?
Gartner defines strategic cloud platform services (SCPS) as standardized, automated, public cloud offerings integrating infrastructure services (for example, computing, network and storage), platform services (for example, application, data and value-added services such as AI/ML) and transformation services (resources to help customers adopt cloud-oriented IT delivery models). Although owned by the service provider, infrastructure and platform services may be hosted in providers’ infrastructures or customers’ data centers. Services should be elastically scalable, metered by use and consumable via web-based interfaces and programmable APIs. Transformation programs may be delivered by automated, self-service interfaces, and managed interactions facilitated by account teams/partners.
Elastic, real-time provisioning and resizing of software defined compute, network, storage and platform services with capacity, sold and billed on a metered-usage basis
Artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) capabilities — IaaS/PaaS platforms, an offering of first-party and third- party foundation models, and specialized hardware and tools for building and consuming classic AI/ML and generative AI (GenAI) services
Managed database and application platforms as a service offering
Cloud software infrastructure services facilitating automated management, including monitoring, autoscaling and managed data backup
An architecture for service resilience that enables customers to replicate resource configurations and data between provider zones and regions, and failover from one location to another as needed, in an automated way
Self-service access via web browser, to a web services API and command line interface (CLI)
The ability to securely interact with all services using identity and access management (IAM) controls, encryption, data protection and secrets management
A global presence and scope (for example, regional cloud data centers on multiple continents)
Peer Lessons Learned for Strategic Cloud Platform Services
Published March 2026
These lessons focus on reviewers' responses to questions about their experience with products in this market, specifically: “If you could start over, what would your organization do differently?” and “What one piece of advice would you give other prospective customers?”
Amazon Web Services is a cloud computing software that offers on-demand computing power, storage, and a broad set of services such as database management, networking, analytics, machine learning, and security. It provides infrastructure resources and platform tools that enable organizations to deploy, manage, and scale applications and workloads in the cloud. The software addresses challenges related to infrastructure scalability, data storage, cost management, disaster recovery, and application deployment by offering a pay-as-you-go model and a range of configurable resources suited for different business needs.
Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing software that offers a range of services including virtual machines, databases, networking, storage, artificial intelligence, and analytics. The software enables organizations to build, deploy, and manage applications across a global network of data centers. It allows users to scale resources as required and supports multiple operating systems and development frameworks. Azure provides tools for security, compliance, and disaster recovery to help address business continuity challenges. It is designed to support workloads from simple web hosting to complex data analysis, allowing businesses to optimize infrastructure management and operational efficiency.
Google Cloud Platform is a software that offers a suite of cloud computing services, including infrastructure as a service, platform as a service, and serverless computing environments. It provides tools for computing, storage, networking, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The software supports the deployment and scaling of applications and services on a highly available and secure global infrastructure. It enables organizations to manage workloads, develop and run applications, and analyze large volumes of data to address business challenges such as resource optimization, faster time-to-market, and scalability for enterprise and developer needs.
Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3) is software designed to provide scalable object storage for various types of data including backup, archiving, application data, and content distribution. The software enables users to store and retrieve any amount of data from anywhere on the web with a secure and durable infrastructure. Amazon S3 supports features such as lifecycle management, versioning, cross-region replication, and access control policies, allowing organizations to manage data efficiently and comply with regulatory requirements. The software addresses business challenges related to data durability, scalability, and secure access, facilitating easier data management and integration with analytics, machine learning, and other cloud-native applications.
IBM Cloud is a software platform offering a range of cloud computing services, including infrastructure as a service, platform as a service, and software as a service. It provides solutions for deploying and managing virtual servers, databases, and machine learning models, as well as tools for application development, security, and monitoring. The software supports various workloads such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and container orchestration through integrated services like Kubernetes and serverless computing. IBM Cloud addresses business challenges related to scalability, resource optimization, compliance, and digital transformation by enabling organizations to develop, run, and manage applications in public, private, or hybrid cloud environments.
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure is a software platform that delivers compute, storage, networking, and database capabilities through a cloud environment. The software supports enterprise workloads by providing scalable and secure resources that can be configured to meet various business requirements. It offers features such as virtual machines, bare metal servers, managed Kubernetes, block and object storage, as well as automation tools for deployment and management. The software also provides monitoring, identity management, and integrated security to address data protection and compliance needs. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure is used to support application development, data analytics, and migration of on-premises workloads to the cloud while optimizing performance and cost efficiency.
Huawei Cloud is a cloud computing software that provides a range of Infrastructure as a Service, Platform as a Service, and Artificial Intelligence capabilities. The software supports computing, storage, network, and security functions, allowing organizations to deploy and manage workloads on virtual and bare metal servers. It offers databases, data analytics, and DevOps tools, enabling businesses to build, test, and launch applications in cloud environments. Huawei Cloud includes features for elastic scaling, disaster recovery, and high availability to help organizations maintain business continuity. The software addresses challenges of scalable infrastructure management and supports digital transformation by offering flexible deployment models and integration with hybrid and multi-cloud architectures.
Cloud Storage is a software that enables users to store, manage, and access data on remote servers. The software provides scalable object storage for a wide range of data types, supporting both structured and unstructured data. It allows for data uploading, retrieval, backup, and archiving, and integrates with other applications and services for analytics and processing purposes. Cloud Storage supports features such as data versioning, access control, and lifecycle management, helping businesses ensure data availability and durability while addressing challenges related to data scalability, security, and disaster recovery.
Alibaba Cloud is a software offering a range of cloud computing services designed to support businesses and organizations with scalable, flexible infrastructure. The software provides solutions including elastic computing, data storage, database management, content delivery, networking, artificial intelligence and security. Users can deploy workloads, manage applications, store and analyze data, and maintain uptime through global network availability zones. The software addresses challenges related to digital transformation, operational efficiency, disaster recovery and rapid resource provisioning by enabling automation and integration with other enterprise systems. Alibaba Cloud aims to facilitate business continuity and agile development by providing resources that can be adapted to diverse technical and operational requirements across various industries.
Tencent Cloud is a cloud computing software that provides a range of services including computing, data storage, and content delivery solutions. The software supports data analytics, artificial intelligence integration, and security management, enabling businesses to develop, deploy, and manage scalable applications. Tencent Cloud also offers tools for network optimization, disaster recovery, and database management, addressing needs related to infrastructure scalability, data protection, and business continuity. The software caters to enterprise requirements for flexible resource allocation and supports connections to global data centers to facilitate cross-border operations and digital transformation efforts.
OVHcloud Public Cloud is a software that offers scalable infrastructure resources through a cloud platform, supporting on-demand provisioning of computing power, storage, and networking. It enables automated deployment and management of virtual machines, containers, and serverless functions. The software provides tools for orchestration, monitoring, and security, allowing businesses to develop, deploy, and scale applications without managing physical hardware. OVHcloud Public Cloud addresses the need for flexible resource allocation, cost optimization, and rapid project deployment in various development and production environments. It also integrates with APIs and offers support for industry-standard protocols, facilitating automation and interoperability for organizations managing infrastructure and workloads.
Lumen Public Cloud (Legacy) is a software that offers cloud computing solutions designed to provide infrastructure as a service for organizations. The software enables users to deploy, manage, and scale virtual servers and computing resources in a multi-tenant cloud environment. It features web-based management, automated provisioning, and integration with existing IT systems, aiming to support business needs such as hosting applications, storing data, and handling workloads with flexible capacity. The software addresses operational efficiency by facilitating scalability and enabling remote access to computing resources, helping organizations optimize their technology infrastructure without maintaining on-premises hardware.
Virtustream Enterprise Cloud (Legacy) is a software designed to support mission-critical enterprise applications by providing secure cloud infrastructure and management solutions. The software enables organizations to run complex applications such as ERP and databases in a cloud environment with focus on compliance, security, and performance. Virtustream Enterprise Cloud (Legacy) offers features including resource scalability, automated monitoring, disaster recovery, and application availability management. The software addresses business needs for reliable hosting of sensitive workloads while providing operational efficiency through automation and centralized management. It is suitable for industries that require robust cloud governance and the ability to meet strict regulatory requirements.
Interoute Virtual Data Centre (Legacy) is a cloud computing software that provides virtualized infrastructure resources such as compute, storage, and networking. The software allows users to deploy, manage, and scale virtual machines and storage within multiple geographically distributed data centers under a unified management interface. It is designed to support businesses in addressing the need for flexible hosting of applications, disaster recovery capabilities, and on-demand resource provisioning. Interoute Virtual Data Centre (Legacy) integrates network services to facilitate low latency connectivity between virtual environments and physical locations and offers control over security and compliance configurations. The software addresses challenges related to infrastructure scalability, resource optimization, and operational efficiency for organizations managing complex IT environments.
Storage Cloud is a software designed to facilitate scalable and secure data storage for businesses. It enables users to manage, store, and retrieve large volumes of unstructured data across multiple environments, including public, private, and hybrid clouds. The software supports data protection, automated backup, and disaster recovery functionalities, allowing organizations to maintain data integrity and availability. It offers features such as policy-driven data management, seamless integration with various applications, and centralized control over storage resources. Storage Cloud addresses business challenges related to data growth, compliance requirements, and cost efficiency by providing flexible storage options and simplified administration, helping organizations optimize and safeguard their information assets.
Cloudflare Cloud Infrastructure and Platform Service is software designed to enhance the reliability, performance, and security of web applications and Internet properties. The software provides integrated solutions for distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) mitigation, web application firewall, content delivery network, and DNS management. It enables businesses to optimize network traffic, ensure uptime, and manage global scalability through automated routing and load balancing features. The software also offers secure connectivity options and supports regulatory compliance requirements by providing granular controls and real-time monitoring capabilities. Organizations can utilize these features to reduce latency, prevent security threats, and facilitate seamless digital experiences for their users across diverse environments.
Disk is a software developed by Microsoft that facilitates the management and organization of file storage and access on computer systems. The software provides users with tools to create, read, write, and manage files and folders on hard drives or other storage devices. Disk supports features such as formatting, partitioning, and allocation of disk space, aiming to ensure data integrity and optimize storage efficiency. The software is designed to address business challenges related to secure data storage, system performance, and effective resource utilization by enabling structured file management and reducing risks associated with data loss or fragmentation.
Samsung Cloud Platform is a software that offers cloud-based solutions designed to facilitate data management, storage, and synchronization for devices and enterprise environments. The software provides features such as secure backup, remote access, and data recovery to support business continuity and safeguard organizational information. It enables automation of device data synchronization, allows configuration of storage settings, and provides tools for monitoring and managing cloud resources in real time. Samsung Cloud Platform addresses the need for secure and efficient handling of business data across multiple devices, supporting enterprise mobility, device deployment, and central management within organizational IT frameworks.
Compunnel Public Cloud Storage Services is a software solution designed to provide scalable storage resources for organizations seeking to manage and store digital data in a cloud environment. The software facilitates access to storage infrastructure on demand, enabling businesses to securely store, retrieve, and manage data without the need for on-premises hardware. It supports centralized data management, enabling users to organize files and information while maintaining data integrity and security. Compunnel Public Cloud Storage Services addresses business continuity and disaster recovery by offering reliable backup and recovery options. The software integrates with various applications and allows for flexible storage capacity, supporting changing data needs as organizations grow.
Fly.io is a software platform that enables developers to deploy and run applications close to users by distributing workloads across multiple global locations. The software offers capabilities for running applications in lightweight containers, handling scaling and load balancing, and automatically managing network routing to achieve low latency. Fly.io provides support for various programming languages and frameworks, allowing applications to be deployed without significant changes to code or architecture. The software helps businesses address challenges related to application responsiveness and availability by reducing geographic distance between end users and hosted services. Fly.io includes features for persistent storage, seamless integration with developer tools, and automated monitoring to facilitate deployment and management of modern applications.