Cloud computing. We hear about. We read about it. We can’t get away from it. But, before you make the move to a cloud computing environment, do your homework. Below are the top five questions you NEED to answer for EACH application (email, software, hardware, etc.) you are considering moving to the cloud.
-
WHY? Why do you want to move to the cloud? What are the business drivers prompting the consideration (cost, outsourcing the management, scalability, flexibility, risk reduction, etc.)?
-
HOW MUCH? What is the real cost of the cloud solution(s) you are considering? Use a 3-5 year time horizon and be sure to catch all the little add-ons (like fees for extra storage space, or extra internet access that you will need). Are software licenses necessary? Factor in the cost of administration, customization, and training.
-
HOW SECURE? Cloud solutions are still operated by real people. Do you trust the provider? Can you check them out thoroughly? Do they pass your security standards? Will they support you well? Have you vetted the subcontractors they employ? Do they meet any compliance standards you require (Sarbanes-Oxley, HIPPA, etc.)?
-
HOW FLEXIBLE? Sometimes a great cloud computing deal comes at the price of flexibility. Are there any features or control that you absolutely must have? Are you bound by any regulations preventing certain access to your data? Can the cloud provider accommodate your restrictions? Can the provider meet your disaster recovery and backup minimums? Be sure to ask for references from organizations similar to yours.
-
HOW FAST? Accessing servers over the internet usually means cutting your communication speeds to 1/1000 of what it is in your office. Will your performance suffer? Does it matter? Are there certain minimum computing power requirements necessary for a specific organizational application? Will these be met?
Last Word
It’s important to be clear before entering the cloud. Ultimately, you are comparing a cloud solution with the alternative of upgrading a traditional, on-premise, technology solution or against a newer, on-premise, "private cloud" solution. Ignore the hype, ignore what your competitors are doing. Be thoughtful about the choice; ‘to cloud or not to cloud’ should be evaluated with the same gravity you would give any strategic business decision.
Confused? This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Want more? This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Want different? We’re game—and your topic might be covered in a future issue. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
If you want to receive an email every time there is a new Optimal Impact, click here.
0 Comments