Switching to the cloud is an investment that requires planning and foresight. Here are ten tips to help you make the most of your new cloud investment.
Like any business investment, the success of your cloud migration is primarily up to you. Business leaders can get the most ROI by understanding cloud capabilities and mapping a strategy that fits their long-term goals. But what else can they do to maximize their investment?
Here are ten ways to make the most of your cloud investments.
1. Identify a Plan
What is moving to the cloud going to achieve for your business? What specific business outcomes do you want to realize? Beginning with the end in mind can help you gain clarity and ensures you choose the best cloud solutions for your business or organization.
Some examples include:
- Hybrid Cloud Strategy
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
- Software as a Service (SaaS)
- Platform as a Service (PaaS)
A managed cloud services provider can help you map your vision to the products and services you sell.
2. Invest in AI
Data analysis is the present (and future) of many industries that lean on cloud technologies. Artificial intelligence tools that offer cloud-based predictive capabilities and machine learning can reduce staff burnout and operational costs and increase efficiency.
At the very least, it’s worth asking about these newer tools for your business. Even if the initial price tag is higher, you could save money in the long term.
3. Limit Wasted Cloud Spending
The cloud is a huge transition requiring a business leader to make several decisions. And like any business decision, you must do all you can to save money. Unfortunately, wasted cloud spending is typical.
Wasted cloud spending typically includes:
- Continuing to pay for obsolete resources no longer being used
- Paying for too much infrastructure upfront
- Redundant or unnecessary subscriptions or legacy fees
Doing good research and avoiding the dreaded cloud vendor lock-in can help stop you from overspending.
4. Don’t Skimp on Security
Business leaders naturally look at areas where they can save or cut to stretch their budget the furthest. However, cloud security is one area where you should avoid making sacrifices if possible.
Paying for cloud security gives you access to the latest and greatest tools to prevent cybercrimes and keep your data safe.
In the same way, you’d install security in a new building for your business to protect assets, think of your security features as a non-negotiable or the foundation on which you’ll build your cloud investment.
5. Consider Remote and WFH Employees
COVID-19 affected every business in America, many of which are now working remotely or in hybrid roles. Whether this is true of your business or not, it’s essential to look at trends and plan accordingly. For example, 62 percent of workers believe their jobs can be completed at home, according to Pew Research.
Make sure the cloud capabilities you’re installing will work for all your employees in the coming years. In addition, those opting for hybrid IT cloud strategies should think about how their business may look five years from now.
6. Demand Transparency
It’s no secret that investing in the cloud is, well, an investment. So look for a managed IT or cloud services company that leads with the heart of a teacher and guarantees transparency, especially when it comes to cost.
Alternatively, take it as a red flag if a business doesn’t take the time to explain why certain aspects of their package are needed for your business.
7. Instill Flexibility Into Your Work
Perhaps the most significant benefit of cloud computing is the flexibility it offers. So be sure you’re using these functions once you make the switch. For example, if your business is run in-person, it might be worth piloting a day per week or month at home to see how your team works together from afar.
8. Limit Mixing and Matching
Some business leaders may attempt to mix and match or use a medley of different cloud solutions to save costs. For example, a partial investment in in-house cloud technology could be combined with external applications or security features run by an off-site third party.
This strategy does save money but shouldn’t be used to the point of confusion. Inefficient systems could drop employee morale or even pose a security risk.
9. Train Your Staff
A lack of education for your staff could wind up shooting you in the foot as you migrate to cloud technologies. Therefore, training and monitoring are essential, especially if your staff is a mix of older and younger workers.
10. Hire Professionals to Make the Jump
If this is your first time navigating the cloud, consider bringing in a professional. Even if you plan to manage your cloud services yourself, a consultant or cloud expert can help you avoid common pitfalls and set you up for long-term success.
Contact us today to learn more about how Zivaro can help you make the most of your cloud services.
