Google offers paid-for support for enterprise cloud

 

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By Stewart Mitchell

Posted on 22 Feb 2013 at 10:44

Google is improving support for its cloud services after complaints from customers, but will be charging for the extra help.

The company has previously received criticism because customers had little support for the online computing services other than using Google Groups.

"Support is as important as product features when choosing a platform for your applications," Google said in a blog post. "No matter which Google Cloud Platform services you are using — App Engine, Compute Engine, Cloud Storage, Cloud SQL, BigQuery — or what time of day, you should be able to get the answers you need."

To that end, Google has unveiled a tiered system for companies to buy into, with support ranging from the most basic online information through to access to an account manager.

A free Bronze package includes little more than online documentation and forum access, while for $150 a month companies can email support questions to Google staff.

The $400/month Gold package includes "24x7 phone support and consultation on application development", while the Platinum bundle also buys "direct access to a technical account manager", with prices to be negotiated on application.