3 Tips for Moving to the Public Cloud

With the widespread use of cloud computing, many IT professionals are wondering how much to move to a public cloud. By steering away from a solely CAPEX model to a more balanced hybrid OPEX model, companies can save money and take advantage of fledging new technologies.

While it can be beneficial to purchase your own infrastructure through a traditional CAPEX model, it can be extremely costly, especially for startup companies, and does not allow for much flexibility. Users of this traditional model may benefit from moving to a more advanced, hybrid OPEX model.

If you’re considering moving to the public cloud, here are three tips to ease the transition.

3 Tips for Moving Your Business to the Cloud

1. Determine how your business will use the Cloud. There are countless uses for cloud computing technology, and moving to the cloud is a great way to take advantage of them. Before making the switch, determine which services on the cloud you’ll be using which can include email, data storage, scheduling, software and more. This can help you decide which services you’ll be using and plan for the costs of each.
2. Adapt for Cloud pricing. Although your company saves money from having to buy expensive hardware, the pay as you go model of cloud computing may accrue unexpectedly high costs. Before you make the change of moving to the cloud, be sure to price all of your services and remember costs are usually charged monthly. Create a budget that will help you be prepared for the change.
3. Consider security risks. One common concern with moving to the cloud are the security risks involved. While cloud computing is generally safe and secure, there are always exceptions. Be sure to read all literature provided by the company and ask as many questions as necessary.

Another best practice is to ask your public cloud service provider what happens to your data should you cease their services; does your information come with you, or do they own the rights to it?

Determining your use of the cloud, adapting for a different pricing model and considering security risks are all things to think about when making the switch to cloud computing.

If you’re considering moving to the cloud, check out the infographic, How to get the most out of the Cloud for more info on cloud types, cost models and use cases.