Selecting a public cloud platform is no longer just about technical fit — it’s about strategic alignment. Our new report, Buyer’s Guide: Public Cloud Platforms, 2025, offers a clear, practical framework to support the decision-making process. Whether you’re optimizing for AI, navigating digital sovereignty complexities, or building a resilient ecosystem, the guide can help you make informed, future-ready choices.

A Framework For Smarter Cloud Choices

To help organizations navigate the complexities around cloud choices, Forrester has published the Buyer’s Guide: Public Cloud Platforms, 2025. The guide provides a structured approach to evaluating cloud providers based on the capabilities that matter most in today’s world. The guide draws on recent Forrester Wave™ evaluations and landscape analysis but goes further by highlighting the strategic differentiators that should guide final decisions.

  • AI capabilities. Modern cloud platforms now compete on AI support, from foundation models to governance. Even if you’re not building AI today, choosing a platform with strong AI features ensures future readiness and operational efficiency through AIOps.
  • Digital sovereignty enablers. With rising regulations and geopolitical shifts, digital sovereignty is a top priority. Organizations are turning to multicloud strategies and sovereign cloud offerings to meet local compliance while maintaining performance.
  • Partner ecosystems. A strong partner ecosystem enhances a cloud platform’s value by enabling tailored, industry-specific solutions. These partnerships accelerate deployment, simplify integration, and are crucial in fast-evolving areas like AI.

Navigating Complexity With Confidence

The cloud market is more dynamic than ever. Providers are investing heavily in innovation, but their focus areas vary widely. Hyperscalers bring scale and global reach, while regional players often excel in compliance and industry-specific capabilities. As a result, many organizations are moving toward hybrid and multicloud strategies that combine the strengths of multiple providers. This approach offers flexibility but also introduces complexity. It requires careful planning around workload placement, data governance, and cost management.

Take The Next Step

To explore insights in more detail, consult the full report or reach out to learn how we can support your cloud strategy. Clients, if you have questions, schedule an inquiry at inquiry@forrester.com.