Knowing Your Advantage (Centralized vs Distributed)

When you’re a centralized system, here are some of your advantages:

• Speed – You can make decisions and engage machines or people quickly
• Efficiency – You can spread and use resources with little waste
• Communication – You can create a speedy and efficient communication system
• Control – You set the standards, enforce consistency, and lead with impunity
• Security – You can monitor and guard your systems more easily

When you’re a distributed system, here are some of your advantages:

• Resilience – You can easily ensure no single point of failure
• Self-sufficiency – Each part can operate independently, adapt locally, and take initiative
• Scalability – You can grow organically, node by node, without a total overhaul
• Flexibility – You can respond differently in different regions or contexts
• Innovation – You can empower the constituents 

Coming to the table knowing your advantage is, in itself, an advantage.