Cloud computing represents such a sea change in technology that in a few years, the term itself will likely evaporate. Rather than a separate entity, the cloud will simply become the accepted way that IT services are delivered, to individual users as well as to businesses of all sizes.

On the brink of so much change, it's natural to feel wary of the unknown -- but Ingram Micro is here to support you through the transition. As this issue of the Channel Advisor goes to press, we're on the verge of hosting our first-ever Cloud Summit, offered in conjunction with our fourth annual Seismic Partner Conference in Dallas. And in the Channel Advisor itself, we're including valuable information to help you better understand the multibillion-dollar opportunity associated with cloudrelated services:

• In "Pondering the Cloud", discover how integrating the cloud into your business model can help generate new revenue, deepen customer relationships and strengthen your position against competitors.
• If you're not already among the 40 percent of solution providers who describe themselves as managed service providers (MSPs), turn to "MSPs Gain Critical Mass" to find out how other solution providers have made the leap, and benefit from the lessons they've learned.
• To learn more about the cloudbased Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model, read "The Real Strength of SaaS".

The transition to the cloud has already begun -- and you've come to the best place to find out how to make the most of it. If you have additional questions, the Ingram Micro services team is always available to help. Contact them at (800) 705-7057, option 5, or e-mail services@ ingrammicro.com.