Cloud computing is no longer out of the ordinary; it’s our norm.
A recent survey showed that 85 percent of enterprises have a multi-cloud strategy, with 41 percent of their workloads operating in public clouds while 28 percent operate in private clouds.
That hybrid approach is something that will continue to grow in the future. While cloud computing offers a variety of benefits, including enhanced reliability, flexibility, manageability, and scalability, there is another side. A darker side where one simple error or oversight could lead to chaos.
To maintain a beneficial cloud transition for all of your businesses information, avoid these six common mistakes.
Believing anything can go into the cloud
Despite the fact that cloud computing continues to make headlines in major news sources, some applications simply aren’t cloud ready. If you attempt to put an application into the cloud without the proper performance and security, it can seriously damage everything from the user experience to the functionality. Before you move anything, be sure to take the time to understand the end results when the transition is made.
Believing your cloud service will provide everything
Every cloud service has a different business strategy in place. Some will provide more customer service than others. Where many businesses go wrong is assuming they’ll have quick access in time of trouble, only to find help isn’t a phone call away. What should have taken minutes can turn into a several day nightmare if you aren’t properly advised. Be sure to understand the terms of the contract long before you sign on the dotted line.
Believing your cloud service will operate at top performance
Out of sight, out of mind. That’s the way many business managers operate once they release their data to a cloud service. However, things may not always be as they were promised. It’s your data; it’s important to monitor it at all times. An organization should periodically evaluate key performance indicators to ensure they stay on track with their goals and they aren’t putting their data at risk.
Believing your current staff can easily make the transition
Just because you have an IT staff on the payroll doesn’t mean they understand or are properly trained in cloud transition. And an ignorant staff can leave your business vulnerable to security catastrophe. The easiest way to avoid this is to ensure you have a well-trained task force working for you. That can mean hiring someone new, or bringing in a consulting company that can ensure your transition runs smoothly from start to stop.
Believing automated scripts work well for your business
With most cloud services, they place a significant amount of automation into their working structure. It’s the nature of the system; you need specific scripts to move from one step to another. And while they function well as placards and can provide the basis for moving around in the system, never assume they are what’s best for your business. Always be aware of every step or transition your data makes as it moves through the system.
Believing they will handle security
As a whole, cloud services ensure all of their data is safe. They put a lot of focus on the security of their systems. But because they are in business to ensure their systems are safe, it doesn’t mean they can get specific for your needs. Every business has different needs and security issues. And even though a cloud service may be safe for their average clients, your needs may differ. There may still be internal weaknesses that allow your data to be insecure, no matter where you place the final content.
For IT Strategy, Cloud Conversion, or Help Desk Services reach out to us at Silver Linings Technology 360-450-4759.
