This document discusses cloud computing and addresses its current state, obstacles to business adoption, and expectations for the future. It provides definitions of cloud computing, outlines the essential characteristics and service delivery models. It also examines the major types of cloud deployments including private, public, hybrid, and community clouds. The document analyzes the cloud computing market size and growth prospects, with SaaS expected to lead growth. It also maps traditional IT delivery to cloud-based delivery models of SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, and DaaS. Finally, it notes that awareness and understanding of cloud computing remains limited.