For many businesses the prospect of transitioning to the cloud can be rather daunting. But, is it as frightening as it appears, in theory? And can the whole process be simplified significantly?
One of the most common problems that you’ll come across when reading about cloud computing and strategy is the fact that they’re written by cloud computing experts.
What’s with all the jargon? How does it help the average business owner who wants to cut circles with the straightest line and get down to brass tacks?
In this article, we’ll share some insight into the steps involved when planning a cloud strategy…
Strategize for speed and value
You are transitioning to the cloud because you want to enjoy greater security, better functionality, increased efficiency, and to ultimately make everyone’s lives easier. So, the first step is to not overcomplicate your strategy!
- Innovation: think about how the cloud can solve your most common business problems and allow new innovation.
- Security and governance: focus on adaptable frameworks that will ultimately provide you with the flexibility to handle various implementation demands and risk profiles.
- Migration: plan for cloud success and look for ways to support the transformation of your business as a whole.
Pick and prioritise a primary cloud provider
Many companies now rely on multi-cloud strategies. This essentially means that they have multiple cloud service providers with varying areas of specialty.
To simplify this, you must identify and prioritise a primary cloud service provider that can tick as many boxes as possible. Depending on the size of your business and the industry that you are in, you should hopefully be able to find everything you need under one roof – for now.
In any case, identify the most reputable cloud hosting and service providers in Australia, and then you can add additional providers driven by specific business needs as and when it makes sense to do so.
Focus on resilience and reliability
If the ever-increasing threat of cyber security breaches and the organisational disruptions attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that being able to continue business as usual while everyone else flaps around in a panic is the perfect opportunity to showcase the superiority of your brand and product.
Focus on resilience. Plan for the worst case scenario. Always expect the worst – and be ready for it.
Involve your chosen provider sooner
Yes, you should take the time to plan your cloud strategy and think carefully about how you aim to make the transition, but you should involve your chosen provider sooner rather than later. By leveraging their expertise, you will be able to adapt your strategy and make the whole process even smoother.
Conclusion
Just as you took the time to put together a plan when starting your business, it’s worth adopting a similar approach when transitioning to the cloud. The cloud can bring many, many benefits, however, it’s all about execution. Think carefully about how your business can evolve, which areas can benefit most from cloud computing, which provider is best suited to accommodate your needs, and how well you can respond to any potential disaster scenarios. This is the key to crushing your competition.
