Cloud computing enables companies to consume computer resources as a utility rather than having to build and maintain computing infrastructures in-house.
Two key evolution steps along the history of cloud computing include the following:
Evolution of technologies like "intergalactic computer network“, virtualization, utility computing, Web 2.0, etc
Evolution of services like service-oriented architecture, virtual private network, application service provision, etc.
Some key cloud computing benefits include:
Self-service provisioning: End users can spin up computing resources for almost any type of workload on-demand.
Elasticity: Companies can scale up as computing needs increase and then scale down again as demands decrease.
Pay per use: Computing resources are measured at a granular level, allowing users to pay only for the resources and workloads they use.
The above is an excerpt from a presentation to C level stakeholders which I prepared for one of my clients. I have years of experience consulting on cloud adoption for various organizations and for various use cases. I am also experienced in developing comprehensive business case documents with industry research, feasibility studies, business strategy and cost-benefit analysis.