Germany’s Government Cloud Strategy: Target Architecture Framework

October 2022

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Strategies and Action Plans

Germany’s Government ‘Cloud Strategy: Target Architecture Framework,’ outlines a comprehensive strategy for the development of a government cloud infrastructure. The strategy is based on key principles such as digital sovereignty, vendor independence, and the use of open standards. Here are the main strategic components:

  1. Objectives and framework conditions: The strategy is intended to standardise cloud operations across federal, state, and municipal levels in Germany. Its aim is to create a modular, interoperable infrastructure that reduces dependencies on single vendors and promotes open interfaces.
  2. Methodology: The methodology emphasises distributed IT operations across government data centers, while supporting multiple cloud service providers (both public and private). The architecture is based on modular principles, where cloud services and applications are interoperable across different locations.
  3. Key standards: Standards play a critical role in this strategy, ensuring the uniformity and security of cloud services. These include infrastructure standards (e.g. network architecture, security measures) and operational standards (e.g. container environments for applications, cloud service portals). Priority is given to open-source software (OSS), and all cloud locations must comply with rigorous security standards.
  4. Role definitions: The strategy defines roles such as cloud service providers, cloud integrators, and platform operators. Each role has clear responsibilities in the deployment and operation of cloud services within the government cloud.
  5. Next steps and operationalisation: The document outlines a phased implementation process, starting with pilot projects and leading to full operationalisation. A coordination body will oversee the management and development of the cloud, ensuring compliance with the standards and adapting to new technologies.

The overall strategic focus is to create a secure, flexible, and scalable cloud infrastructure for public administration while enhancing digital sovereignty by reducing dependency on external vendors and proprietary solutions.