The digital transformation has clearly shown organizations that the best way to maintain their competitiveness is by moving to the cloud. Indeed, many of them have already begun to do so. However, this migration can sometimes be accompanied by some questions: Is the cloud secure? Should we migrate our system completely? Will we have full accessibility? It is in this context that arises the need to create a Cloud Strategy.
Cloud Computing services stand out for offering multiple advantages to organizations; however, many times they can follow some challenges. That is why the best way to achieve a successful migration to this technology is through a solid plan based on the objectives of the company. Read on and find out how a good Cloud Strategy can help you get the most out of cloud services.
Why a Cloud Strategy?
Cloud Computing services provide unquestionably the speed and agility businesses need. However, it is not the only thing to consider when deciding to invest in this type of technology.
There are some important factors surrounding migration to cloud services that deeply concern the enterprise. Some of them are the initial investment, the security of the data, the reliability of the provider, among others. This is why no migration should be taken lightly, but rather it should be accompanied by a strategy that allows defining well the steps to follow during the transition process.
This strategy is called Cloud Strategy, and basically represents a plan that clearly defines the objectives to be achieved through migration, the reasons for investing in cloud computing services, the cost-benefit ratio and much more. The goal is for companies to be able to apply their business principles more quickly and efficiently.
What are the steps to follow to carry out a good Cloud Strategy?
#1 Engage all stakeholders
A cloud computing strategy for an organization is not something that the IT department should create on its own. Top management and department heads will be key to identifying overall business priorities and will need help determining whether and how a new IT infrastructure could be useful to the organization as a whole.
Once everyone is informed and on the same page about the definition of cloud computing and its potential benefits and challenges, it’s time for senior management and department heads to discuss the most logical direction.
This is an excellent opportunity to ensure that the IT department is at the forefront of current and future discussions on overall business strategy, and to further solidify IT as a driver of business value and innovation in the business model, and not just as an essential cost center.
#2 Define your goals well
Migrating to the cloud for the simple fact that it is part of the digital transformation is not a strong enough reason to start the transition. Migration must be driven by the intention to achieve key business objectives. The most common would be to increase IT efficiency, reduce infrastructure costs, ensure availability of critical applications etc.
So, before you start ideally you should define well what you need to use Cloud Computing services for. This will allow you to set limits and standards regarding budget and characteristics of the cloud platform you want to use.
#3 Choose the type of cloud that suits you best
There are several models of platforms and services in the cloud. Public or Private Cloud, SaaS or PaaS type, hybrid, etc. Some work better for certain types of business than others. Regardless of which one you choose, always remember that your criteria must be based on the characteristics of your business. It is therefore recommended that you take into account, in a secondary way, any other standard determined by elements external to your organization.
#4 Make security a priority
The security of your cloud assets must be a fundamental part of your Cloud Strategy. This means that before you start migrating you should have a plan in place that focuses on protecting your cloud assets. This plan should consider the following factors related to your data:
- Security and Compliance: It must be protected from any unauthorized person or entity.
- Availability and reliability: It should be available whenever you want.
- Integration: It must be able to integrate with all the other applications you want.
Remember that to guarantee the absolute security of your systems; you must integrate a tool that allows you to have total visibility on your attack surfaces. A solution like Tenable.io represents an excellent option when it comes to locating and keeping an eye on your vulnerable points.
Once you’ve established a solid security strategy; all that’s left is to migrate and constantly analyze the performance of your cloud applications. This will allow you to make future improvements wherever you require them.
Now all you have to do is move forward into the future. If you need help acquiring cutting-edge tools, GB Advisors is there for you. We have a team of experts in ITSM and ITsec able to help you get the best solutions for your business. Contact us now.
