Call us on
Moving to the cloud can be a major transformation for your business with huge benefits. Not only can it drastically simplify the IT environment from a disaster recovery point of view, it can also be a more cost-effective solution compared to maintaining or purchasing on-premises servers. It also reduces risk of environmental issues, makes it easier to scale resources up or down and opens up more remote work options. A cloud migration solutions specialist can help you weigh up the cost to benefit and even provide a proof of concept that demonstrates what working in the cloud will be like for your users. Here are some things to consider when preparing for your cloud migration and choosing your provider:
Needs and Goals for a Cloud Migration Solution
Before you start evaluating potential providers, you need to have a clear understanding of your own needs and goals. What are the current pain points with your existing IT infrastructure? What are the business outcomes you hope to achieve with a move to the cloud? What are your cyber security and compliance requirements? What business applications do your users use? Once you have a solid grasp on these factors, you can begin to look for a provider who can deliver on your specific needs.
Managed Cloud Services Provider Experience
When it comes to cloud migration, experience matters. Look for a provider who has successfully migrated businesses similar to yours in size and industry. Ask for case studies and references to validate their experience. It’s also important to ensure that the provider has expertise in the specific cloud platform you’ll be using and potentially in migrating and managing your line of business applications. If you’re considering ongoing managed IT services or managed cyber security after your cloud migration is complete, ensure the provider has a package that meets your needs.
Scalability and Flexibility with your Business Needs
As your business grows and evolves, your cloud infrastructure needs will change. Look for a provider who can offer scalable solutions that can grow with your business. This includes their ability to provide additional resources on-demand, ongoing improvements and recommendations that align to your industry and user count, and cost-effective options should the need arise. Your provider should be able to accommodate your unique needs and not force you into a one-size-fits-all solution.
Evaluate Cyber Security and Compliance Capabilities
Cyber security and compliance are critical factors to consider when choosing a cloud migration services provider. Look for a provider who has experience securing cloud infrastructure and who can demonstrate their ability to meet your specific security and compliance requirements. They should also be able to provide ongoing monitoring and support to ensure your cloud environment remains secure over time. The Australian Government recommends the Essential 8 as a standard baseline for protecting your business against cyber security threats.
Cost and Value of the Cloud Migration Solution
Of course, cost is a factor in any business decision. But it’s important to look beyond the initial price tag and consider the value that the provider will deliver over time. Look for a provider who can offer a predictable pricing model with no hidden fees. Transparency and clear pricing from the beginning of the engagement can prevent issues arising in future. You should also consider the long-term benefits that a provider can deliver, such as improved productivity, scalability, and security.
Look for Local Providers
For businesses based in the Gold Coast and Brisbane, choosing a local managed cloud service provider means working with a team who understands the local business landscape and can offer tailored solutions to meet the needs of your users. It also means access to local support and expertise, which can be invaluable in ensuring a successful long-term working relationship.
If you’re thinking about a cloud migration for your business, send us an email on [email protected].