OASIS launches cloud interoperability initiative

The Organisation for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards (OASIS) has launched a new standards initiative to enhance the portability of cloud applications. The aim of the Topology and Orchestration Specification for Cloud Applications (TOSCA) project is to create a standard for interoperable cloud platforms. The idea behind the standard is to avoid vendor lock-in, which is possible with the many cloud APIs and deployment technologies available, while addressing the need for applications to be secure, well managed and compliant.

More specifically, it will describe the application and infrastructure services for cloud platforms and the relationships between these services and their operational behaviour. It is important that the services are free from vendor lock-in, as this will allow applications to be migrated easily between cloud providers and hosting technologies.

Companies including Capgemini, CA, Cisco, Citrix, EMC, IBM, Red Hat, SAP and Software AG have contributed to the initial draft specification. Unlike many other cloud interoperability projects, TOSCA will cover not only infrastructure services, but also other as-a-service areas. Other initiatives in the field of cloud interoperability include those by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) and the Open Source Business Foundation (OSBF).

(ehe)