Cloud transformation is steadily growing in popularity among companies. The process involves the digital innovation of company applications, business data, IT infrastructure, and other dependent programs. It is not simply a transfer or migration of information–rather, it aims to optimize the efficiency of storage, interpretation, and security of data within the company.
Given the chief information officer’s role in ensuring software systems run smoothly across departments, company leaders turn to these executives for their expertise. When cloud transformation is properly helmed and rolled out, this technology can boost company performance and increase the potential for innovation. In fact, Infosys research finds that up to $414 billion in net profits can be made across global enterprises. As a result, it is no surprise that more and more companies are adopting cloud transformation. However, transitioning to the cloud is understandably daunting since it demands quite a big change. Here are a few ways to help ease your company into using the cloud:
Develop a data migration strategy
It is important to consider the volume of information to be transformed and integrated into a cloud system. With this in mind, a company should develop a data migration strategy to ensure that the system will not be overwhelmed and become prone to disruption. A good start for any migration strategy is to transform company data in phases to keep a close eye on the migration process to ensure everything is running smoothly. Internally, you can appoint a project manager to oversee this. Since a project manager’s job description includes being well-versed in documentation, organization, and goal-setting, your company will be able to more effectively implement a cloud transformation strategy across departments. Remember, data migration is not an easy process, so it’s good for your company to have an effective and sustainable project management-led approach. In this way, you can set goals and systems that work with the information you intend to transfer.
Optimize cost management
Implementing changes to the company usually comes at a cost. Though this is ideally recouped as the advantages of cloud transformation start to materialize, it’s still important for a business to be strategic with cost optimization and management to make better budgeting decisions. Such carefulness will be especially vital for cloud transformation. Even though the process helps lower IT costs, regularly monitoring cloud usage is vital to avoid incurring unexpected expenses. Using cost management strategies such as auto-scaling can help since it monitors applications and automatically adjusts capacity to handle the traffic demands within a company’s capabilities.
Upskill the workforce through training
Another facet of a company’s cloud transformation is ensuring its employees can navigate the cloud system it’s adopting. To address this issue, your company can benefit from investing in training programs where someone is able to effectively aid in improving team knowledge of the cloud environment. The responsibilities of computer support specialists address most of these IT-related challenges, and they can also provide technical help for employees during a training program. Having specialists onboard for training programs can help guarantee that your company is on the right track to achieving cloud transformation. With an empowered team who have upskilled to be more cloud-savvy, your company transformation can be better maximized at every employee level.
Regularly evaluate performance
Cloud transformation is a continuous process of development and optimization. It aims to prioritize IT innovations rather than routine infrastructure maintenance. As such, regularly evaluating the company’s cloud environment and performance is a significant part of cloud transformation. Staying updated with the latest developments in cloud technology can help inform any further changes you decide to implement to benefit the company. This can range from improving cost optimization strategies and implementing new training programs to knowing what else can be transformed for the company’s cloud management. In this way, you are consistently adapting and fine-tuning your company’s cloud use.
The possibilities seem endless with the innovation of cloud transformation, which can seem a little overwhelming at times. Though it may be challenging to implement, you can follow these steps to help you more easily reap the benefits of cloud technology.
Article contributed by Rachel Jesten
Exclusively for ETTE
