The term cloud native is now synonymous with innovation and digital transformation. It’s more than a technology—it represents a new paradigm in software development and management designed to fully leverage the potential of cloud computing.
You’re about to discover what cloud native is, how it has evolved, and its applications in research and development (R&D) projects. Keep reading!
Table of contents
What is cloud native?
Cloud native is a modern approach to software development in the cloud. Unlike traditional “lift and shift” methods—where an application is moved from an on-premise environment to the cloud—cloud native architectures are built from the ground up for the cloud, offering greater flexibility, scalability, and resilience.
Key features
Containerized applications
Apps are packaged in lightweight containers (like those created with Docker), enabling seamless portability and consistent execution across different environments.
Automated service management
Tools like Kubernetes manage thousands of small software components (called microservices) automatically, orchestrating them into a fully functional application.
Modular design with microservices
Applications are split into independent modules, making it easier to update or add features without overhauling the whole system.
Managed cloud services
Providers such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud offer managed services that simplify infrastructure setup and maintenance, freeing developers from complex tasks.
Serverless execution
In Function-as-a-Service (FaaS) models, code is executed only when needed, leading to more efficient resource usage.
DevOps and Agile methodologies
Modern development workflows use CI/CD (Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment) for fast, automated release cycles.
Resilience planning
Disaster recovery and high availability are achieved through geographically distributed servers and strategic planning.
Cloud native: evolution over the last 10 years
Over the past decade, cloud native has made a dramatic leap. Starting with Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), the ecosystem evolved through containerization, microservices, and serverless computing—ushering in a fully native paradigm.
Technologies like Docker and Kubernetes paved the way for agile and scalable architectures. Companies can now handle complex, dynamic environments with highly automated tools—resulting in faster development, improved process efficiency, and better app quality.
ICT research centers and cloud native
ICT-focused R&D centers like PMF Research have embraced the cloud native model to revolutionize technology experimentation. This approach brings tangible benefits:
- dedicated environments for testing and simulation without disrupting production systems;
- faster time-to-market through automated testing and deployment workflows;
- interdisciplinary collaboration and open innovation;
- high standards of security and resilience;
- repeatable success cases serving as templates for future projects.
These capabilities support continuous experimentation and innovation without compromising system reliability, pushing forward the development of high-performance ICT solutions.
Cloud native in Europe: a growing ecosystem
The European Union (EU) has embraced cloud native by supporting:
- policies aimed at technological sovereignty;
- research and innovation funds via Horizon Europe;
- initiatives for defining standards and interoperability (ETS, CEN);
- digitalization programs for SMEs and public administrations;
- networks of international cooperation among public and private entities.
Programs like Horizon Europe and Digital Europe are crucial in building a secure, resilient, and federated cloud infrastructure at the continental level.
European cloud native projects
Numerous EU-funded projects adopt cloud native technologies to tackle industrial, social, and environmental challenges:
- real-world, cross-sector experimentation;
- development of shared standards and common frameworks;
- integration of AI, IoT, and big data for advanced applications;
- cooperation between industry, academia, and public sector;
- sustainable and scalable economic models.
Examples can be found in smart manufacturing, digital health, and intelligent infrastructure—sectors evolving rapidly thanks to cloud native.
2 standout European projects
- European Open Science Cloud (EOSC): a pan-European infrastructure providing digital services for managing, sharing, and analyzing scientific data. EOSC fosters a collaborative cloud-native environment for researchers, institutions, and businesses;
- PaaSage: a European project enabling multi-cloud application development and deployment. It offers tools that promote portability and a cloud-native approach to software delivery.
Become a partner of our R&D center
Partnering with an ICT R&D center like PMF Research gives you access to:
- european funding and innovative project opportunities;
- the chance to co-develop cutting-edge cloud native solutions;
- resource and knowledge sharing in a high-tech environment;
- a strong international and interdisciplinary network;
- increased visibility and market impact within the ICT sector.
A strategic partnership is your key to navigating the digital innovation landscape with success.
For more information, call us at +390954683879, message us on WhatsApp, or fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page. The choice is yours.
