Microsoft Joins Open Data Center Alliance

Microsoft has joined The Open Data Center Alliance (ODCA), an industry group that publishes usage models for Open Specifications for Cloud Computing. The Open Data Center Alliance is comprised of more than 300 companies that represent over $100 billion in annual IT spending.

"In line with Windows Azure's commitment to openness and interoperability, we are pleased to join ODCA and work with industry leadership on standards for the cloud," said Bill Hilf, general manager, Windows Azure. "We are dedicated to serving the industry and customers by providing an open, reliable and global approach to the cloud, and we look forward to contributing to the ODCA's mission."

ODCA aims to be a voice for enterprise IT in articulating the requirements for the transforming enterprise IT landscape with focus on topics including open, interoperable delivery of compute infrastructure as a service, cloud security, and best practices for adoption of big data analytics. Microsoft brings a valuable perspective to the organization.

"The ODCA brings together leaders from across industries to work together towards a vision of open, industry standard cloud solution delivery," said Mario Mueller, BMW's Vice President of IT Infrastructure and Chair of the Alliance. "In order to truly accelerate availability of cloud services, enterprise IT needs to work closely with cloud service and solution providers.  Microsoft's participation is a valuable addition to the organization's mission, and we heartily welcome their membership."