Back

Are You Choosing the Right Type of Cloud Implementation?

Cloud computing is on nearly every companys mind Reduced infrastructure costs and the ability toconnect critical business systems make this technol...

3 min read
Published on Dec 15, 2016
Are You Choosing the Right Type of Cloud Implementation?

Cloud computing is on nearly every company’s mind. Reduced infrastructure costs and the ability to connect critical business systems make this technology an attractive choice — and may tempt you away from on-premises infrastructure. But not all cloud implementations are created equal. Simply migrating to the cloud won’t instantly unlock the capabilities you might expect. Before investing in a cloud implementation, you should know what to look for.

Types of Cloud Implementation

The phrase “cloud implementation” refers to the ways you can incorporate this technology into your business operations. Each company has its own preferences for its cloud strategy, and the first step is understanding the difference between the two primary implementation categories.

Basic Cloud Implementation

Basic cloud implementation involves migrating your file servers and applications to the cloud. You can use cloud-based storage to handle document management and a service such as Azure or Amazon Web Services to handle your applications. Parts of your infrastructure heavily rely on the cloud, but they aren’t tied tightly together.

Holistic Cloud Implementation

A holistic implementation takes a step beyond basic by pulling everything into the cloud. Everything from your file storage to your critical systems integrates together, and cloud technology provides more accurate data visualization and facilitates smarter decision-making.

The Benefits of a Holistic Cloud Implementation Approach

A simple system migration to the cloud is not the same as a complete cloud implementation. A holistic approach focuses on getting all the parts of your infrastructure to work together to create a more efficient whole. When you share data with every relevant system, you gain the following benefits:

  • Reduced duplicate data
  • Storage cost savings
  • Data insights for better decision-making

How to Complete a Holistic Cloud Implementation

A holistic cloud implementation is an extensive process to complete. The first step is to evaluate your infrastructure for its cloud-readiness. Are your applications coded for cloud-based usage? Are they already set up for integration? Older systems can require a lot of work to get cloud-ready.

You need to research and choose the right vendors to support your business needs. Everything from your budget to their equipment capabilities must be evaluated before you begin the implementation. The plan for moving your operations from on-premises systems into a fully integrated cloud must be handled with care. If you switch too quickly or fail to set up data access correctly, you could end up with hours or days of downtime. A lack of in-house expertise is often the culprit for failed holistic cloud implementations.

Partnering With Cloud Computing Experts

You probably don’t have a bunch of spare cloud computing experts around, especially if this is your first implementation process. Trying to hire an in-house team while you’re in the middle of the process is a recipe for disaster, even if you ignore the scarcity of candidates available with this skill set.

A partnership with an expert cloud computing service fixes all of these problems. They have the experience and knowledge required to handle your cloud computing strategy and execute a holistic cloud implementation. They learn the ins and outs of how your company operates and design a custom cloud implementation plan that equips the entire organization with reliable insights.

You don’t have to stretch your in-house IT resources to the limit and deal with the aftermath of a failed cloud project. Leverage the expertise of a quality cloud computing strategy expert to get the results you want from your infrastructure. Learn more about Agile IT’s cloud implementation services, or if you have any questions, contact us today.

This post has matured and its content may no longer be relevant beyond historical reference. To see the most current information on a given topic, click on the associated category or tag.

Related Posts

Common Questions About Azure Migration Answered

Common Questions About Azure Migration Answered

Get answers to the most common Azure migration questions. Learn about costs, best practices, security, compliance, and troubleshooting cloud migration challenges.

Apr 29, 2025
3 min read
AVD vs W365 in GCC high reducing your CMMC scope

AVD vs W365 in GCC High Reducing Your CMMC Scope and Simplifying Compliance

Comparing AVD vs W365 for GCC High? Learn how each can reduce your CMMC assessment scope and simplify security and compliance management in government environments.

Apr 28, 2025
7 min read
Office 365 License Comparison: Business Plans Vs. E5, E3 and E1

Implementing Cybersecurity Policies for CMMC Compliance and Managing CUI

CMMC compliance requires well-documented cybersecurity policies. Learn how to implement security controls, create an SSP and POA&M, and manage Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Apr 25, 2025
7 min read
CMMC compliance for DoD contractors

CMMC Compliance Requirements for DoD Contractors and Subcontractors in the Defense Industry

CMMC compliance is mandatory for DoD contractors and subcontractors. Learn about certification levels, requirements, and the consequences of failing to meet compliance.

Apr 24, 2025
6 min read
How to prepare for a CMMC compliance audit

CMMC Compliance Audit Preparation: A Complete Checklist for Small Businesses

Preparing for a CMMC compliance audit is critical for DoD contractors. Use this checklist to perform a gap analysis, assess CMMC readiness, and prepare for a Level 2 assessment.

Apr 23, 2025
8 min read
FAR CUI vs CMMC Understanding

FAR CUI vs CMMC Understanding the Differences and Overlaps

FAR CUI and CMMC both focus on protecting sensitive federal data, but they have key differences. Learn how they work together and whether FAR CUI compliance aligns with CMMC.

Apr 15, 2025
10 min read

Ready to Secure and Defend Your Data
So Your Business Can Thrive?

Fill out the form to see how we can protect your data and help your business grow.

Loading...
Secure. Defend. Thrive.

Let's start a conversation

Discover more about Agile IT's range of services by reaching out.

Don't want to wait for us to get back to you?

Schedule a Free Consultation

Location

Agile IT Headquarters
4660 La Jolla Village Drive #100
San Diego, CA 92122

Secure. Defend. Thrive.

Don't want to wait for us to get back to you?

Discover more about Agile IT's range of services by reaching out

Schedule a Free Consultation