Cloud computing, which is the “on-demand delivery of computer power, database storage, applications, and other IT resources through a cloud services platform via the internet with pay-as-you-go pricing” is a service that is rapidly growing, with adoption rates climbing across businesses of every size (Amazon Web Services). In fact, according to CIO.com, it’s estimated that 90 percent of businesses are using the cloud in some capacity.
If you’re business is contemplating the move to the cloud, are looking to switch providers, or want to increase your current cloud usage, the best place to start the process is by asking a few questions. Below we have included a five questions to help get you started.
5 Questions to Consider When Moving to Cloud Computing
1. How will my business benefit from using the cloud?
Overall, there are a few areas where a cloud computing solution could benefit your business, including but not limited to:
- Improve ROI
- Scale as needed
- Reduce infrastructure costs
- Reduce IT support costs
- Reduce competitor threat
Depending on which benefit is most important to you, it’s recommended that you determine how the cloud solution provider will be able to deliver on your goals and expectations. For example, if scalability is key, make sure you work with a provider who can provide a cloud computing solution that can expand as you grow—avoiding risky overspending and unexpected costs.
2. How reliable is the proposed cloud solution?
A reliable cloud computing solution is essential, and it’s important that you ask the solution provider what level of uptime that they plan to deliver, since any amount of downtime could cost your business time and money. In addition, it’s smart to consider a provider who will stay up to date with the latest technology and upgrade options. For example, a solution like Big Sur Technologies’s My Cloud, eliminates upgrade costs, since all hardware and software upgrades are included and completed behind the scenes at no additional charge.
3. What type of security and protection processes are in place?
From human-induced error or attack to natural disasters, businesses today must prepare for a wide-range of unanticipated threats that could be detrimental to a business. The good news here is that a reliable and secure cloud computing solution can help better prepare your business and get you up and running quicker in the event of a disaster.
Given that, it’s important that you understand and are comfortable with the level of security your cloud computing provider offers, especially if sensitive information is being migrated to cloud services,” or your company works within a regulated industry where certain standards must be met (On Track).
4. How will my legacy system evolve with the new cloud computing solution?
Unfortunately, given the complexity of networks and large amounts of data, transitioning a large application from a legacy system to a new cloud computing solution can be a tricky process. The following are a few steps recently published in IT Biz Advisor, that are suggested ways to make the change and technology adoption a smoother process.
- Plan the transition and move ahead of time
- Prepare legacy applications and when possible, link the legacy system with new technologies
- Estimate the cost and time of making the transition, plus any security concerns
- Ensure your business infrastructure is equipped and ready for the transition
- Check to see how your applications will operate in the cloud, before you make the transition
5. What kind of support can I expect from the provider?
No matter the size of your business, a reliable cloud computing provider is a key component to a successful technology solution. With that said, this question is an especially important consideration for small-to-medium sized businesses, who may not have the same internal support compared to large companies. Which means that “These companies therefore need to determine what help is offered from their cloud service partner, such as maintenance and automatic upgrades” (Ontrack).
If you have additional questions, or would like further guidance on tips for selecting a cloud computing solutions provider, don’t hesitate to contact our team today.
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