Cloud Computing: Web-Based Applications That Change the Way You Work and Collaborate Online,
by Michael Miller (August 2008) 

Reviewed by Daniel Gooch

Written in an extremely engaging matter, this volume looks at cloud computing as used for collaboration.

The introduction covers both pros and cons of cloud computing—considering the negative aspects is a nice addition missing from many other volumes.

The first section of the book considers what cloud computing means for various communities. It is worth noting that while families and corporations can harness the power of cloud computing, they have very different needs and requirements for such systems.

The majority of the book is focused upon the use of cloud computing in a variety of applications from word processing to digital photography. Each application is discussed in terms of how it works and what the benefits are. Many examples are then presented—alongside their pros and cons—in the realm of cloud computing. The major shortcoming of this volume is the brevity with which each tool is discussed.

Miller’s book provides a good guide to the plethora of cloud computing applications and is invaluable as a reference guide to those interested in such practical applications.