4 Tips for Creating a Cloud Migration Strategy

Businesses are relying on the cloud more and more these days. This trend can mostly be attributed to two factors: affordability and risk mitigation. Migrating to the cloud allows companies to avoid the cost of building out their own in-house computing systems. At the same time, the cloud allows you to store data in multiple server locations, lowering the risk of data loss. Cloud migrations run the gamut from simply storing all your data on a cloud-based file-management solution like eFolder’s Anchor Secure Filehsare (ITque recommends this one) all the way to migrating applications and data to the cloud – i.e. MS Office to Office 365.

Other benefits include convenience, scalability, security, and ease of implementation. The many advantages offered by cloud computing are alluring, but before you make the switch, you’ll want to create a migration plan. A solid cloud computing migration strategy can ensure a smooth transition from traditional infrastructure.

4 STEPS FOR CREATING A CLOUD MIGRATION STRATEGY

When making the transition to the cloud, it’s important to know that there are certain risks involved. Some of these risks include downtime and a possible loss of data if you’re not careful. With a well-thought-out migration strategy, your company can avoid these risks. To help you create an effective strategy, here are a few steps you’ll want to take.

CREATE A CHECKLIST

To prepare for migration, it is important to identify the various challenges facing your transition. Discovering the risks will help you to create a checklist of potential issues you may run into during the data migration. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to create a plan of action that will assist you with keeping downtime to a minimum.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPE OF CLOUD SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEEDS

There are three types of cloud services that you can choose from. These include public, private, and hybrid cloud solutions.

• Public Cloud: The public cloud is an infrastructure that’s available to everyone, such as through Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. This is an attractive option for many companies, as it’s efficient for sharing resources and doesn’t cost much (if at all). However, public cloud platforms are more vulnerable than a private cloud solution.
• Private Cloud: Unlike a public cloud platform, a private cloud gives you control over security and your system. This platform is ideal for organizations that handle sensitive data or if your company needs to comply with stringent security requirements.
• Hybrid Cloud: A hybrid cloud combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to operate in the cloud environment that works best for you at that time. The two main challenges with this platform are managing the two platforms and keeping track of security.

Which platform is right for you will depend on your business needs.

COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR EMPLOYEES

As with most changes to your organization, you should communicate with your employees about your migration project, especially because the migration will likely have an impact on their productivity. This will give your employees the opportunity to learn how the new infrastructure works.

REMAIN COMPLIANT DURING MIGRATION

Transitioning to the cloud comes with a few security and regulatory requirements. This is particularly the case if your business is in the healthcare field or payment processing industry. Working with a cloud migration service provider can help you remain in compliance with government and industry regulations.

LET ITQUE ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR CLOUD MIGRATION PROJECT

Moving to the cloud provides numerous benefits, such as lowering IT expenses, improving security, and enhancing scalability. At ITque, we provide a number of cloud migration services including migrating companies from the old client-based Microsoft Office to cloud-based Office 365. We’ll make sure your data is handled properly and securely. You’ll be up and running in as little as 30 days.

Call Scott at ITque today: 408.500.0724