Chromebooks: Another Small Step Towards Cloud PLM?

I’ve been watching updates from the Google I/O 2011 conference during this week. Google came with the announcement of Chromebook. In my view, this is a logical continuation of all Google web and cloud efforts – Apps, Chrome, etc. When it is still not related to any CAD, PLM and other cloud efforts, I found the following passage in Google’s announcement interesting:

Even with dedicated IT departments, businesses and schools struggle with the same complex, costly and insecure computers as the rest of us. To address this, we’re also announcing Chromebooks for Business and Education. This service from Google includes Chromebooks and a cloud management console to remotely administer and manage users, devices, applications and policies. Also included is enterprise-level support, device warranties and replacements as well as regular hardware refreshes.

The following video can get you some ideas about what Google is planning to offer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVqe8ieqz10

What is my take on this? Cloud is coming. However, it will not come in a single one-big-step. It will include many small steps towards introductory of new and useful services for people in manufacturing companies. Chromebook is one small single step in this direction. Just my thoughts.

Best, Oleg