Six Common Questions and Answers About the Cloud

Moving your business to the cloud can feel like a major challenge. Before jumping in it’s critical that business leaders and their IT decisions-makers assess their readiness and risks for a migration to the cloud.

Here are six common questions and answers as you lay the groundwork for a move to the cloud:

1. What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computer uses a network of remote, Internet hosted servers to process, store, share and manage data as opposed to hosting it on-site. Basically, cloud computing uses third-party infrastructure and hardware reducing your company’s capital investment while improving the ability to “scale” as business conditions change.

2. How Can I Know if the Cloud is Right for My Business?

Ask yourself these questions to help guide your decision:

• How important are reliability, flexibility, and security for your business?
• Are more employees working from home and does your team need secure remote access?
• Are you happy with the cost and reliability of your current on-premises solution?
• Are you constantly upgrading hardware and can you afford to easily scale up your technology when required?
• Do you have any contractual commitments that might prevent migration?

3. What Do I Need to Do to Prepare for Migration?

Companies often do not take the time necessary to consider what may need to be in place before migrating to the cloud. A Cloud Services provider can make transitioning easier. Also, consider your current bandwidth and future bandwidth needs to be sure you can handle the transition.

4. What Can I Shift to the Cloud?

There are several options for moving applications and processes to the cloud. You can move your entire IT environment or a single task. Most companies use the cloud for data backup, short and long-term application-based work like CRM management or marketing automation.

5. Will I Need Additional IT Staff?

One of the big advantages of working with a Cloud Services provider is that they have the experience and expertise to help with all of your cloud-related needs including a seamless transition. While you won’t need to hire staff, having an experienced IT professional on your team can help.

6. What About Security?

Security today is critical. Cloud providers have enhanced security measures to minimize risks of various attacks to help protect your data and improve operational resiliency. Security includes encryption, identity management, and physical security. Providers will also typically have business continuity plans in place and built-in redundancy.

Are you ready to learn more about the cloud? Contact Atlantic, Tomorrow’s Office to learn about the advantages of the cloud and how it can help you grow your business!