Transition to the cloud can be a stressful experience if not managed properly. To that end, we continue our series on why organizations are making this sometimes-difficult migration, and how to migrate as smoothly as possible.
In part one of our series, we outlined five reasons companies are switching to the cloud. Today, we list three more, along with some helpful tips.
Cloud transition enables digital transformation.
Many organizations are undergoing digital transformation to create incremental value out of existing assets. Because of recent advances in cloud computing, leaders can digitize more core functionality — including CRM, SAP, data analytics and more. Those who migrate away from legacy technologies can increase the productivity of their workforces, innovate, and unlock new sources of revenue compared to their peers. Once on the cloud, the possibilities are virtually endless.
Cloud transition accelerates growth.
Technology is more important than ever when it comes to organizational growth — whether it be through organic expansion or mergers and acquisitions. Enterprises in the cloud can integrate new acquisitions to existing platforms more easily. They can also scale rapidly with demand using auto-scaling functionality and flexible data management services.
Cloud transition leverages new technologies.
Migrating to the cloud opens up numerous doors of opportunity when it comes to leveraging modern technologies. For example, organizations that migrate can take advantage of machine learning and AI, which aren’t feasible on-premises. They can also spin up highly complex cloud-native technologies, such as Kubernetes containers and data lakes, in minutes.
Cloud transition doesn’t have to be difficult.
Realizing these migration benefits is only possible if you can successfully move your on-premises IT infrastructure to the cloud without any issues. As a cloud expert, we understand the challenges that organizations face when it comes to making the transition without disrupting existing operations.
Fortunately, one of the leading cloud platforms, Amazon Web Services (AWS), offers a migration program to help ease the journey. Through the AWS Migration Acceleration Program (MAP), organizations follow a three-phase approach:
- The Migration Readiness Assessment (MRA) phase
- The Migration Readiness & Planning (MRP) phase
- The Migration Phase
In the MRA phase, your team reflects on important questions, such as:
- Is your business prepared to operate in the cloud?
- If not, what do you need to do to get ready?
- What is your business case for adopting the cloud?
- What are the financial implications of moving IT infrastructure to the cloud?
Before moving forward with any migration, you need clarity across these areas. Cloud migrations can be time-consuming and burdensome if not executed properly — which is why you shouldn’t move forward prematurely.
Once you’ve determined that there is a compelling business case to migrate, it’s time to mobilize your team. In the MRP phase, you build out a roadmap for the applications and workloads you want to move to the cloud. Along the way, you also address any planning gaps and refine your business case as you learn more about what’s possible.
In the migration phase, you execute according to your roadmap and carefully move away from your legacy IT infrastructure. In many cases, it also makes sense to modernize applications during the process so that they are optimized for the cloud.
Through extensive experience with cloud computing and relationships with clients as our trusted partners, V2 Systems is positioned to help guide you to successful results in leveraging cloud solutions. We stand ready to assist you.
Since 1995, Manassas Park, VA-based V2 Systems has employed local systems administrators, network engineers, security consultants, help desk technicians and partnering companies to meet a wide range of clients’ IT needs, from research, to implementation, to maintenance. Concentrate on your VISION…We’ll handle the TECHNOLOGY!