Cloud-based data and applications are difficult to maintain so the industry is slow in its development. Intel surveyed IT professionals in different countries and a surprising trend of ditching cloud was revealed.

Of 2,000 Intel Security respondents, two major factors affect in making cloud-based computing a mainstream niche. While cloud-based apps like antivirus and data storage are still alive, most exist in companies with a decent number of personnel. It makes sense since 49 percent of respondents said there is chronic shortage of cybersecurity skills to guard cloud servers.

The second factor is proliferation of shadow IT which constantly threatens marketing and profit expansion. Shadow IT are employees who sneaks around their company to gather as much information so they can start an app of their own. 65 percent said that cloud industry is slowing due to such shadow IT, MIS-Asia reported.

Considering both security implications, companies allegedly bleed a lot of money. Training new cybersecurity experts is expensive while shadow IT is robbing the app of their supposed revenue.

According to Dan Olds, an analyst with OrionX, users are getting excited because cloud computing is convenient. Data and apps doesn't need to physically exists in their computers so they are saving space. Another reason is the public's perception that cloud is safe. In fact, 66 percent of the public registered high trust rating for clouds.

However, cloud administrators and data centers are not so enthusiastic. Heads are rolling in cloud companies because 52 percent of them indicate a losing trend.

Olds added that what could be a workaround on manpower shortage and shadow IT problems lies on the companies themselves. They should take control of the clouds by placing significant penalties against data sniffing and shadow careers. Cloud companies should also ensure that they have solid IT teams since most of them are handling sensitive user data.