After reaching mainstream acceptance in 2015, cloud will shift into the next gear in 2016. This next stage will focus on expanding cloud use cases and infrastructure and operations (I&O) professionals' attitudes around automation and relinquishing some control. The goal of entire business ecosystems operating in a blend of cloud services is within reach. This brief outlines the 11 key developments coming to the world of cloud in 2016 and provides specific recommendations for I&O leaders.