The international law firm Allen & Overy has released an article on cloud computing, offering advice and insight into how to overcome the legal barriers that many will face when adopting cloud.

The article, entitled ‘Cloud computing: Overcoming the legal and regulatory challenges’, is a 12-page summary of the key legal issues that need to be addressed when moving to the cloud. These include data protection, intellectual property rights, EU laws and contractual issues with customers and suppliers.

Allen & Overy is recognised as one of the leading commercial practises in the global marketplace. They advise on a full range of commercial contracts applicable to any sector, including on a multi-jurisdictional basis.

Their article contains a checklist of issues a company may wish to consider when contemplating a move to the cloud.

Jim Ford, a partner in the Allen & Overy London office, said: "Cloud computing should be embraced as a powerful and beneficial technology.  In a world which focuses on new technology and a general desire to cut costs, the cloud is ideally placed to accommodate both desires.  As Viviane Reding reiterated just last week, the legal challenges posed by cloud computing are, for the most part, nothing new.  Many are similar to issues faced in any cross-border outsourcing contract.  However, the nature of cloud services and the complex contractual relationships amplify these challenges."

A full copy of the article is available by clicking here.