Cloud migrations can quickly become challenging. Whether companies move files from a local file server or need to move files from one cloud solution to another there are some dangers you need to consider.
1. Dedicate time to plan the cloud migration
Blindly jumping into the cloud or a new cloud solution without a solid strategy is dangerous and can cost time and resources down the line.
There are various factors that can influence how smooth the migration will be. From choosing the right cloud provider for your needs to employee training and cost analysis, it’s important to establish which steps should be taken and when will they take place.
You should spend time searching for the provider that can match your needs. Identify what should be prioritized when working in the cloud and discuss with various cloud providers how you should plan your migration.
2. Ask the right questions to your cloud provider
At vBoxx we interact with companies from many industries, some more prepared than others in regards to what they want. If you know what you need, you can ask the right questions to better determine if a cloud provider is a right fit for you.
Naturally, it is very helpful to find a cloud provider that makes the whole cloud migration process easier. There will be questions that your cloud provider might ask to help you along the way. If you are not sure about the right approach, consider any recommendations your provider can give.
3. Help your employees work in the cloud
Whenever there is a change in the working process especially when you introduce a new tool it’s important to make sure everyone knows how to use it. Don’t assume that your employees will be able to understand the new cloud solution on their own.
Reserve some time to get your employees up-to-date with the new solution, or make sure the cloud provider can offer training sessions to your staff. This will prevent a lot of problems in the future. The last thing you want is your employees using free cloud solutions to share company files, or worse, using USB sticks.
4. Have the right security processes in place
Even if you spend time training your staff you might still run into risky situations.
Deleting files by mistake, editing the wrong file, are only a few examples that can be easily prevented. Choose a cloud solution that helps set up security policies to minimize, as much as possible, potential mistakes.
5. Avoid yearly contracts
Most business cloud providers tie companies to yearly contracts. In the middle of the cloud migration process, you might find yourself wondering if you have made the right choice. You might be entering an agreement you wish you haven’t made.
When choosing your cloud provider consider your goals and which provider can help you achieve them while maintaining flexibility. Review service level agreements and ask about “what if” situations to learn how your cloud provider can help you. Ideally, choose a cloud provider that gives you a flexible contract.