Cloud migration is a vital part of modern business operations. In fact, 92% of businesses now use cloud computing in some capacity. However, it’s not without its challenges. Thus, mitigating cloud migration challenges is crucial for a successful transition.
The benefits of cloud computing include saved time, reduced costs, and increased flexibility, security, and scalability. All the more reason to ensure cloud migration success without unnecessary headaches.
In this article, we’ll explore common cloud migration challenges and actionable ways to overcome them.
1. Lack of Direction
Transitioning to the cloud can be intimidating, especially if you don’t have cloud computing experience. To ensure a successful cloud migration, you must build a comprehensive cloud strategy early.
First, identify your business objectives and the right cloud solution for your needs. Compare private vs. public cloud options and various cloud services. A clear business objective is crucial to any successful cloud migration strategy.
During this phase, it’s also a good idea to identify your key stakeholders and ensure everyone is on-board. Highlight your chosen objective and make sure everyone involved in your cloud migration project agrees with it.
Next, assess your existing data center and cloud infrastructure (if you’re moving between cloud platforms). This helps you identify any possible dependencies that could impede your data migration.
Finally, you should have a plan to deal with any problems that may come up during the move. Cloud consultants can help you formulate these plans if you don’t know where to start. You should also track performance with KPIs during your migration. This gives you a clear benchmark of what works and what doesn’t.
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2. Lack of Internal Expertise
Migrating to the cloud requires businesses to embrace new technologies, processes, and procedures. However, not everyone has the same understanding of cloud-based solutions.
As you move to the cloud, provide enough time, money, and training programs to get your team up to speed. Proactive communication with workers can also make them more open to change. According to the technology adoption curve, only 16% of people are willing to adopt an unfamiliar technology tool.
Source: Business to You
Training materials such as self-help documents, videos, and webinars can help employees understand the cloud better. Better understanding leads to more familiarity which will encourage cloud adoption in the other 84%. This increases your chance of a successful shift to the cloud.
Employing managed cloud services may also be an option. This might be your best bet if your organization needs to move to the cloud but doesn’t have time for training. Managed cloud service providers have all the expertise you need to take care of your environment. They also know how to talk to your employees to ensure they see the value in the move.
3. Cybersecurity Vulnerability
Moving sensitive data to the cloud is a common challenge for businesses. Although cloud environments are typically more secure than on-prem, data is vulnerable during the migration process. Many assets may also be outdated, which makes them easier to exploit online.
Implementing security solutions early helps prevent data breaches. Good options include:
- Identity and access management
- Data encryption during migration
- Firewalls
- Network security protocols
It’s also a good idea to assess your current assets pre-migration. Check to make sure they’re fully up-to-date before you move them. This will prevent exploitable legacy vulnerabilities from compromising your cloud.
4. Vendor Lock-In Issues
When companies become reliant on a single service for their cloud operations, it becomes difficult to switch without causing significant technical difficulties.
Beware of partners who try to lock you in too early. Instead, opt for cloud partners with clear contracts and transparency. This will help prevent overreliance issues. It’s also another reason why internal cloud training is important.
You can also prevent overreliance by adopting a multi-cloud strategy. Multiple cloud providers can diversify your cloud infrastructure, reducing the risk of vendor lock-in. However, managing multiple cloud providers gets complex and makes it more difficult to manage security, compliance, and cost.
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5. Cost
Cost is always one of the most common migration challenges. This is mainly because cloud migration costs can be complex. Initial expenses for equipment, software licenses, and continuous fees for maintenance and computing power all add up to your project budget.
Identify complementary cloud applications that fit seamlessly with your existing infrastructure. An experienced IT partner can also help you find scalable cloud solutions (and preferred pricing) that you may not find if you buy retail.
Easily Overcome Cloud Migration Challenges with IT Consulting Services
Cloud migration can be a challenging and complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be.
When making the leap to the cloud, it’s helpful to have an experienced IT consulting firm on your side. Sunco Communication and Installation Ltd. offers tailored IT consulting services that are designed to help businesses make a smooth cloud migration journey.
Our team will work with you from start to finish. We’ll help you identify areas for cost savings, develop suitable strategies, enhance cybersecurity, and help encourage adoption across your organization.
Contact us today for a free consultation session with one of our experts.
