Cloud computing has permanently altered the way businesses operate around the world. It seems as though every company has adopted it in some form, whether they use it as additional storage or to completely transform their workflows. But what is causing this major transition? Why migrate to cloud computing, when your business functions fine as-is? And how can you do it effectively?
What Is the Cloud?
Before explaining the benefits, one must first clarify what exactly the cloud is. In short, this is a network of remote servers that provide computing resources over the internet. Said resources are owned and controlled by a third-party known as a cloud service provider (CSP), who provides them to you for a monthly subscription fee. Using the cloud, you are able to access these resources at any time and from any location, as long as an internet connection exists.
There are three main cloud models:
- Public Cloud: You share the same computing resources with other users.
- Private Cloud: Resources are dedicated to your business only.
- Hybrid Cloud: Combines both public and private models to deliver the best of both worlds.
Why Do Companies Migrate to the Cloud?
There are many reasons why companies migrate to the cloud. Some benefits of this approach include:
Flexibility
The cloud allows businesses to adapt quickly to market changes, significantly improving their agility and providing a strong competitive advantage. This is because of the monthly subscription model, which makes it easy to adjust services at a given moment in time.
Accessible Adoption
Cloud services often provide the latest technologies (for example, generative AI) for a much lower fee than they would otherwise cost. This makes them highly accessible to smaller businesses who normally could not afford them, making it possible for them to keep up with their larger peers.
Scalability
Cloud-based solutions can be easily scaled up or down based on current needs, again due to the subscription model. For businesses in seasonal fields or with highly-variable workloads, this can mean the difference between effective resource management and enormous waste.
Cost Savings
Rather than making large, upfront investments each time additional computing resources are needed, the cloud allows businesses to pay only for what they actually use. The predictable, pay-as-you-go model also means that leadership always knows exactly how much budget is required. These factors enable significantly stronger cost management practices, saving a lot of money in the long run.
Security and Business Continuity
Cloud environments provide backups and additional redundancy, protecting businesses from a variety of mishaps that could cost them data, money, and customer trust. If a natural disaster, equipment failure, or cyber-attack strike, stored data is far less likely to be lost and business continuity is preserved. CSPs also implement strong security measures that lower the company’s risk of experiencing a breach.
Collaboration and Remote Work
Because cloud infrastructure is accessed over the internet, employees can work from anywhere. Remote work is suddenly an option where it otherwise might not have been, improving productivity and morale. Collaboration also becomes easier between departments and office locations, as staff do not physically have to be in the same room.
How Managed Services Help Companies Migrate to the Cloud
Now that you understand why migrating to cloud-based systems is a highly beneficial decision, it is important to discuss how to accomplish it. While you certainly can migrate on your own, this process is often slow, complicated, and fraught with errors. If you have limited expertise available, the best-case scenario is that any issues will take a long time to resolve. The worst-case scenario may involve downtime, data erasure, or even cyber-attacks.
Instead, it is almost always better to use managed cloud services. IT experts will take care of the transition for you, while your business continues to operate as if nothing is happening. They will be able to resolve any problems that appear, often before you even notice them, and ensure that strong data security is maintained during the migration.
The best part is the low costs involved. Much like CSPs, MSPs (managed service providers) also charge using a fixed monthly fee. This keeps expenses low, especially if you continue to utilise these services after the migration is complete.
Why Migrate to the Cloud on Your Own? Leverage Expert Guidance for a Smoother Journey
The reasons why companies are migrating to the cloud are clear. It offers an unprecedented level of efficiency, productivity, agility, and security – all without the costs typically involved. The only potential complication is the actual migration process, which can be easily addressed with outsourcing. If you have been looking for ways to give your business an additional boost, the cloud might be exactly what you need.
The cloud experts at National IT are ready to help you get started on your cloud journey. We understand that you can’t afford to waste days figuring things out, while your staff are caught between old systems and a cloud that isn’t ready yet. That’s why we do it all for you, completing the migration so smoothly that you won’t even notice it. If you’d like to learn more, or need help deciding if the cloud is really right for you, learn how our consultants can help.