Cloud for Burst Capacity

One very strong use case for cloud computing is to satisfy applications with seasonal traffic patterns.  One way to test the advantages of the cloud is through a hybrid approach.

Cloud infrastructure can be built completely through scripts.  You can spinup specific AMIs or machine images, automatically install and update packages, install your credentials, startup services, and you're running!

All of these steps can be performed in advance of your need at little cost.  Simply build and test.  When you're finished, shutdown those instances.  What you walk away with is scripts.  What do we mean?

The power here is that you carry zero costs for that burst capacity until you need it.  You've already build the automation scripts, and have them in place.  When your capacity planning warrants it, spinup additional compute power, and watch your internet application scale horizontally.  Once your busy season is over, scale back and disable your usage until you need it again.