Organizations adopt cloud migration for more effective execution of business objectives by resolving issues that may be interfering with flow of information. It also enables enterprises to acquire better availability of services for a superior performance with access to use of the latest technologies as well as architectures.
Understanding cloud migration
Cloud migration is a major phenomenon that is influenced by some highly technical aspects such as automation. Although, cloud computing is reckoned for multiple benefits, the process of migrating existing applications can be daunting and full of challenges. Cloud migration requires organizations to have outstanding technical talent pool that is able to face diverse challenges and a total transformation of approach in terms of data management and business.
Unless an organization has effectively prepared itself for migration of existing software and legacy applications to the cloud, it cannot succeed in the process of migration. In order to access all benefits of cloud computing there has to be a robust plan in place for an in-depth assessment of current internal IT assets.
Migration involves shift or transfer of applications on the basis of ‘as is’ while using the process of migration as an opportunity upgrading or ensuring optimum use of new versions of the application technology stack.
One needs to accommodate the deployment architecture for improved resilience, and performance of applications while extending the existing functionalities of applications for implementation of business objectives as well as need fulfillment.
There is every chance that the existing applications have become obsolete and such applications are not required to be transferred to cloud. One can also plan replacement of current software with a different implementation as an alternative or execute redevelopment of the existing application.
Different steps involved in cloud migration process
In order to understand the overall process of cloud migration it can be divided in three vital aspects from an organization’s point of view including readiness, actual migration, and final switchover.
The process of cloud migration involves implementation of the most recent software and data in the cloud platform. This should follow thorough verification to make sure that systems are seamlessly operating in the new cloud environment.
During the initial stages, it is necessary to build an experienced and responsible project management team. This team is supposed to prepare a road map and timetable for achieving cloud migration objectives. The cloud migration process should be designed by confirming that the current system is fit to be migrated to cloud platform.
The team needs to attach great importance to security and integrity of data while planning for combating possible vulnerabilities of a multi tenant environment of public cloud. It is essential to have a backup of all data as well as applications in their most recent state. This can also include preparation of appropriate protection plans and to ensure seamless compliance with regulatory obligations.
Leveraging cloud migration to enhance IT operations
While implementing cloud migration, organizations must appreciate significance of keeping track of the past as well as existing condition of IT functionalities and gravity of need to upgrade IT operations. It must be bone in mind by IT managers that obsolete tools and outdated processes would never yield desired results. In order to gain proper insights about processes that need upgrade, one must be able to have a 360 degree view of organization’s IT capabilities and assets.
Cloud data migration process cannot be kicked off without in depth knowledge of company’s baseline. You should be armed with detailed information of the IT assets and the processes that are being accomplished by using these. This is essential for seamless execution of migration process and proper understanding of the budget that would be required for its execution.
In-depth understanding of technical aspects
It is observed that majority of IT professionals tend to neglect minor aspects of cloud computing that could have profound significance. You need to analyze compatibility of the different components of cloud with ongoing technological processes of the organization. It is vital to rule out possibility of new processes impacting older versions by ensuring upgrades wherever these are necessary.
Optimum utilization of budgetary provisions
Keeping check on budgets is an important aspect of managing IT costs. IT executives must be able to reduce number of overheads while planning for long term objectives. IT managers are required to possess sound financial knowledge to mitigate unwanted expenses that could lead to wastage of company funds.
Knowledge of current technology trends
With the rapidly changing technology paradigms, it is necessary for IT managers to keep close watch on changing patterns of cloud computing technology. IT managers must be able to have a practical approach for minimizing chances of data breach or data loss in addition to multiple risk factors. They should be prepared to implement an easy and robust exit plan in case of switching any of the vendors due to service issues.
Takeaway
Process of cloud migration requires an in-depth understanding of all technical aspects of cloud computing in addition to proficiency of financial management and comprehensive understanding of ever changing market trends. IT managers must confirm compatibility of organization’s current technologies with cloud components.
