What is your definition of "Cloud" Recruiting?

I'm not the authority... I'm seriously asking what does it mean to YOU. I have an opinion.. but, I am requesting feedback from any and all as to YOUR definition of the Cloud and how it relates to the recruiting industry.

Remember, it does not matter if our answers are wrong. It is all in pursuit of clarity. To me.. it's sort of like trying to define "Web 2.0". But, should be great to hear what everyone "thinks" it is today.

So.... what does it mean to you?

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by RecruiterGuy on December 6, 2008 at 1:03pm

Randall said:

Hey Jim,
Good question. You know I'm going to have a different take on cloud recruiting, but to me it's about...

Great response, Randall - I'd agree with the marketing spin that seems to be taking place. It's definitely interesting to watch how many people jump on a "buzzword bandwagon" to make a profit.... I think Shally had a post about that very thing just recently over on ERE with some remarks worth noting.
Software as a service is most certainly key... applications that don't reside on our desktops or laptops - the entire idea being that the metaphor for the internet is the 'cloud' right? A form of 'computing' where the service is provided on demand and runs from the web servers where the data is stored but only temporarily delivered to the smart phones, laptops, desktops, etc.

Cloud Recruiting takes the same theme of Software as a Service (SaaS) and it's Internet reliance into the realm of Talent Attraction. Now as to what you describe here:Randall said:

What would I do? I'd build a recruiting site. I'd put up tests so I can see how much applicants know about the companies, industries, and details of the job they are applying for. I'd quickly create a new test for every job post. If they pass the test, they can submit their resume. If they don't, we'll give them a special message that they don't qualify for this particular job, but based on their answers, I'd find some other positions they would be qualified for. I could save these questions and when a new opening comes up and I need to find someone, I'll just quickly add the relevant questions. If you are looking for a nurse, what does a nurse need to know? Which certifications do they need?

This sounds very much like an Internet (cloud) based ATS - so would seem to be more 'computing' than 'recruiting' (although it could be an arguable mashup) given that an ATS is simply a storage facility for resumes and not really a recruitment tool...
I'd love to hear more about what makes this more than that - can you expand on this?

Permalink Reply by Jim Canto on December 6, 2008 at 4:03pm

If I may for a moment....

I believe Randall was simply speculating as to a solution which could be developed using the Qrimp platform. To my knowledge, he is not a recruiter. Therefore, what he suggested is simply an idea.

Randall has developed a platform... a blank canvas if you will... by which one can develop applications (as they see fit) to solve whatever business problem they choose. The platform operates in the true Cloud. And, this is where the whole subject becomes a bit existential.

Months ago, when I had a few regular conversations with Randall, he tried to explain the difference between SaaS and the Cloud. From what I remember, the idea is that not all SaaS is truly Cloud based. And.. I know I'm not going to do much justice here.. but, if a SaaS tool runs on a server, or bank of servers with finite capacity... then it is not truly, technically Cloud computing. It is simply web based software. Like I say.. much of this is way over my head...but I sort of get the principal...though not the electrical mechanics of it all.

To eliminate confusion for the end user, I would go so far as to say, end users would not know the difference between a truly Cloud based SaaS and one that is not truly Cloud based, until the provider of said service crashed due to capacity issues. If Randall or another engineering expert needs to correct me here... I will not be even slightly offended. This is all cutting edge stuff and I don't even write code.

Like most, I'm more concerned with what a specific application does, how it does it and how it helps me help others (hopefully for a profit). But, for the enterprising entrepreneurs around here , I think what you can take away from Randall's post is that with Qrimp, you can create a true Cloud based application/recruiting solution which, with some luck, could end up being the next Cloud Recruiting tool being discussed among us.

You don't need to be a programmer to build solutions/applications with Qrimp. Some basic CSS, HTML and Relational Database knowledge, and your well on your way using Qrimp. Even without the CSS or HTML, your still on your way.. but, a little knowledge on both of those gives you an edge in his system. I don't have CSS or HTML skills of really any kind.. so I had to stick with the service I was using....though it was obvious Qrimp had more capabilities than what I've developed my project on.

ok... done for now. Thanks for listening.