Reaching for the cloud: on the lessons learned from grid computing technology transfer process to the biomedical...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Informatics
• Computational Science
• Technology Transfer

Background:

• Physics community pioneered computing resource sharing, leading to Grid technology.
• Existing technology transfer models, like Bozeman's, assume technology stability, which differs from dynamic Grid and Cloud solutions.
• Life sciences face difficulties adopting these evolving computing infrastructures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the unique challenges in transferring Grid and Cloud computing to the life sciences.
• To evaluate the applicability of existing technology transfer models to dynamic Grid and Cloud technologies.
• To propose metrics for success and recommendations for improving adoption in the biomedical community.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of technology transfer processes, comparing traditional models with the dynamic nature of Grid and Cloud computing.
• Evaluation of difficulties encountered by the life science community in adopting these technologies.
• Application of Bozeman's 'Effectiveness Model of Technology Transfer' to identify limitations.

Main Results:

• Grid computing introduces transfer difficulties not addressed by Bozeman's model due to its inherent instability.
• Traditional models are insufficient for assessing the transfer of rapidly evolving technologies like Grid and Cloud.
• Success in healthgrids should be measured by enhanced scientific human capital and created opportunities, not solely market impact.

Conclusions:

• The adoption of Grid and Cloud solutions in the biomedical community requires tailored approaches.
• Recommendations are provided to improve the uptake of these technologies, addressing challenges in late funding periods.
• Overcoming the 'vale of tears' for life science IT projects necessitates understanding and adapting transfer strategies.