The evolution of data storage has been a long and winding road – from floppy disks, to 3.5 diskettes. CD-ROMS, CDs, DVDs, short-lived blu-rays, and now the cloud.
Managed cloud enterprise services have allowed people and organizations to store and access even more data. One never need purchase DVDs again. Above that, everyone has access to a much bigger library than a whole room full of DVDs could provide.
But cloud migration is a marathon, not a sprint, that requires attention to detail and dedicated effort. A journey if you must, that takes about a year or longer, and that needs constant maintenance afterward. Before embarking on this journey, you must first understand the factors that drive the decision.
Benefits of Using Managed Cloud
The benefits of using the cloud are countless: from reduced costs to secure storage. If you are a business that has not yet moved to managed cloud services, maintaining a library of disks or setting up our own enterprise data center will cost a pretty penny considering the initial cost of the hardware, software, and the employment of professionals to manage the center. Also, there is the cost of time.
If you do decide to migrate to the cloud, be aware that it is not a one-off process that you can be done with in one step. It is an ongoing process that requires time, energy and resources that involves regular and periodic maintenance, as well as upgrading, scaling, expanding the hardware and software every few years, and constantly keeping up with changes in technology. But in the end, it is very much worth all the investments. In summary, here are the advantages of partnering with a managed cloud service provider:
Passing the buck. A managed cloud service eliminates significant costs from your business because the service provider owns the hardware, software, and employs the cloud experts.
Keeping up with the cloud. The managed service puts upon the provider’s shoulders the responsibility of staying updated with the technology evolution.
Scaling the heights. Inevitably, your data volume expands as your business grows, but you need not worry about adding servers and hiring more people to manage the data. Managed cloud solutions firms will enable you to expand your storage while bearing the responsibility of managing it.
Better secure than sorry. With managed cloud services, you have little or no risk of losing your enterprise data since service providers plan for solid, armor-clad business continuity in whatever situation. This ensures that your data is always available and that your services and business will continue no matter what the circumstance. Service providers have the infrastructure to ensure the security of your data.
Speed is of the essence. For a more effective cloud migration and efficient cloud-based operations in your company, your enterprise internet speed and that of your managed cloud provide must be of high quality. Choose a managed cloud service provider that offers high-speed internet connections to serve your better.
Cloud Migration is a Process, not a Race
Regardless of all the factors involved, one thing applies: migrating to the cloud cannot be rushed nor staggered. There is no one-click, easy solution that can get you there in a short period. It is therefore best left to service providers with the solid track record, decades of experience, and seasoned, skilled professionals.