If you’re interested in saving money, reducing demand for space in your business, or just making your business more scalable, you should consider migrating to the cloud. But how exactly does this work? Is migrating to the cloud always worth it? And how should you plan a cloud migration?
The Basics of Cloud Migration
Let’s start with the basics of the cloud – and what a “cloud migration” truly is. By default, most businesses operate with all of their technology in-house, including their apps and servers. But it’s possible to transition all your data, technological infrastructure, and other systems to the “cloud.” The cloud, in this case, simply means your technology is being hosted and provided for your company by another organization (usually a major tech company).
With your technology hosted and distributed remotely, you won’t have to worry about building or maintaining any technological infrastructure in your organization; you can access your data and technology remotely, no matter where you are, and you can usually save money in the process.
Migrating to the cloud can be challenging, which is why many businesses in Long Island and surrounding areas choose to work with a managed service provider in NYC. If you live in a different area, you could find someone located closer to you.
A managed service provider can help you understand your cloud migration options, help you put together a plan, and ultimately make sure your cloud migration goes as smoothly as possible.
The Benefits of the Cloud
Why would you do this?
There are several benefits to completing a cloud migration. For example:
- Total speed. Cloud-hosted technologies tend to operate faster and smoother than their counterparts. That’s because you’re relying on dedicated, professional architecture, and true experts are in charge of making sure that architecture continues working properly.
- Cost savings. It’s hard to compare the costs of technology before and after a cloud migration since the cost structure is different. But most businesses end up saving money when they migrate to the cloud. You’ll pay a monthly or annual fee for cloud services, but these tend to be minimal compared to the costs of buying and managing your own equipment. Once you factor in all the secondary and peripheral costs, cloud migration becomes a clearly superior option.
- Universal accessibility. Some business owners like the fact that migrating to the cloud means their systems and apps are going to be remotely accessible from anywhere. As long as your employees have an internet connection, they can access the tools, data, and services they need to do their jobs. If you have a remote or hybrid workplace, this is essential.
- Easy scalability. The cloud is known for its scalability as well. Instead of being forced to buy, set up, and manage new technologies yourself, you can simply upgrade your cloud Service plan and get access to better or more robust services. As a growing business, this is remarkably convenient; you can continue investing in your cloud infrastructure only as you need.
- Higher security. In some ways, hosting your data and services on the cloud grants you higher security. You won’t have to worry about maintaining the physical security of your equipment; your cloud services provider will handle that on your behalf. Cloud services also typically come with robust cybersecurity protection.
The Drawbacks of Cloud Migration
However, cloud migration may not solve all your problems. There are a few downsides you’ll need to consider as well:
- Internet reliance. There are many things that could cause an internet outage, both in your primary workplace and across your distributed network of remote workers. Without the internet, you’ll be practically incapable of accessing your cloud-hosted technologies.
- Contract restrictions. When working with a cloud services provider, there may be certain contract restrictions that aren’t optimal for your business. For example, you may be forced to sign a contract term that’s longer than you’d like. Or you may be forced to pay for more services/features than you’re actually going to use.
- Loss of control. Some business owners don’t like the idea of migrating to the cloud because it’s associated with a loss of control. You’ll have fewer options for customization, and you’ll be relying entirely on third parties to manage your technology for you.
- Transition issues. Migrating to the cloud can cause some disruptions and complications for your workforce. However, if you work with the right managed service provider, you can keep these issues to a minimum.
Full cloud migration isn’t the right move for every business, but most businesses can benefit from the security, reliability, and accessibility of cloud hosted systems. Even if your business doesn’t fully migrate to the cloud, you may consider a hybrid model.
Once you make the transition, you can enjoy the benefits – and compensate for the minimal downsides you encounter.
