As cloud computing rapidly becomes the norm, enterprises have found there are big benefits to be had from adopting what’s called a “multicloud” strategy that involves using services from more than one provider. The problem is that managing the costs of using those resources becomes increasingly complex when more than one service is involved.

To tackle this, cloud management software provider RightScale Inc. has just launched a new “cloud cost optimization tool” called Optima.

RightScale said its Optima tool can combine its analysis, reporting and forecasting tools with automation and optimization in order to reduce wasted cloud spending. The software is compatible with Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, IBM SoftLayer and private clouds.

The main idea behind Optima is that companies can use it to ensure they pick the most cost-efficient cloud resources for each workload they run.

“The RightScale 2017 State of the Cloud Survey of more than 1,000 information technology personnel found that optimizing cloud costs is the top initiative among all cloud users,” said Michael Crandell, chief executive officer of RightScale. “Despite an increased focus on cloud cost management, only a minority of companies are taking critical actions to optimize cloud costs, such as shutting down unused workloads or selecting lower-cost clouds or regions.”

One of the most important components of Optima is its collaboration tools, which allow company bean counters to take action on cloud costs if they deem it necessary. The tool also provides automation features that use analytics to reduce inefficient spending automatically. It also provides alerts to company executives should their cloud costs exceed budgeting and forecasting targets.

“We see RightScale Optima as a potential difference maker for companies looking to reduce cloud spend,” said Edwin Yuen, an analyst with Enterprise Strategy Group. “Optimizing cloud spend is not a linear process, with a defined start and a finish. Rather, it is an ongoing, iterative process that involves communication and collaboration between all stakeholders.”

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