Perspective from those early to “Cloud Computing”
In the ever-evolving landscape of the technology industry, often referred to as a “revolution,” it’s important to glean insights and experiences from corporations that have embraced early adoption of “cloud computing.” In previous discussions on the topic, we defined cloud computing, explored its implications, and highlighted the opportunities it presents for businesses. Now, let’s delve into the specific impacts of the cloud computing environment across various areas: downtime, security, client interactions, compliance, cost management, and IT resourcing.
In the journey toward cloud computing, larger corporations have opted to shift their IT infrastructure to third-party providers, aligning with their strategy to outsource non-core functions. This transition has not only opened up opportunities for small to medium enterprises globally but has also ushered in transformative changes for larger corporations, including:
- Provisioning Speed: The time required to access new servers and software has drastically reduced, from weeks to mere minutes.
- Cost Efficiency: Significant reductions have been seen in hardware, software, and support costs, contributing to improved financial management.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Cloud adoption has facilitated seamless collaboration among corporations, particularly in areas like product development. This, in turn, has elevated innovation, responsiveness, and overall competitiveness.
For small to medium enterprises, embracing cloud computing has enabled them to shed the capital expenditures associated with establishing in-house storage and data management capabilities, involving local servers and infrastructure. This shift has eliminated upfront investments, transitioning these enterprises to variable costs that can scale with growth.
This strategic direction empowers businesses within this sector to concentrate on their core offerings and channel investments into areas that pave the way for future expansion and success. With these developments in mind, let’s delve into the key takeaways and lessons learned from the cloud computing journey thus far.
What about downtime?
Real-world experience has highlighted a significant reduction in downtime within a “cloud” environment. The inherent flexibility of acquiring additional space in the cloud is achieved swiftly and efficiently. This capability bypasses the time-consuming process of procuring new hardware, software, and undergoing the integration process, which often necessitates planned business disruptions. When engaging with your chosen Cloud Computing Provider, it’s crucial to gain a clear understanding of their approach to downtime management and mitigation. This will ensure a seamless and uninterrupted experience for your business operations.
What about security?
Contrary to common belief, the assumption that “Cloud Computing Providers” will fully manage the security of your environment is not always accurate. It’s essential to ascertain the extent of security provisions they offer and to identify your own responsibilities in this domain for your business. This serves as a vital discussion topic when engaging with your Cloud Computing Provider and reviewing the terms outlined in their Service Level Agreement (SLA). Clarifying the division of security responsibilities ensures that you have a comprehensive understanding of your role in upholding the security of your cloud environment.
Your client your compliance
Gaining a thorough understanding of your business’s regulatory landscape and your clients’ expectations holds significant importance in this context. It’s crucial to verify the geographical locations of the data centers utilized by your potential “Cloud Computing Providers.” This step helps determine whether there are regulatory obligations, industry norms, or client demands pertaining to the specific locations for storing, accessing, and updating data. Adhering to these considerations ensures that your business maintains compliance and meets the expectations of your clients in terms of data handling and storage practices.
How about managing costs?
Embracing cloud technology presents a dual nature for your business. The advantage lies in the swift mobilization facilitated by the cloud—scaling server capacity, adjusting user seats, and upgrading software seamlessly. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to be aware that cost savings can dwindle as bandwidth usage rises. Therefore, it’s imperative to seek clarity from your potential “Cloud Computing Provider” regarding their pricing, measurement, and monitoring mechanisms for bandwidth. This understanding ensures you can effectively manage costs and make informed decisions as your business navigates the cloud environment.
IT Resourcing
As hardware and software upgrades are eliminated, the focus of IT Resources tends to shift towards technological advancements that enhance client retention, boost productivity, and elevate employee job satisfaction. This transition positions IT Resources to adopt a more strategic approach rather than being purely tactical in meeting your business’s requirements. By aligning with these changes, IT Resources are better equipped to support your organization’s evolving needs in a manner that drives business growth, enhances client relationships, and empowers your staff to excel in their roles.
