Cloud-based software solutions are the buzz of the present moment. The number of organizations using hybrid cloud solutions has significantly increased from 19% in 2016 to 57% in 2017. This still means around half of the companies haven’t joined the cloud yet. Many enterprises are still struggling to overcome roadblocks along the path to application and service migration.
The discussion today about cloud hosted platforms is not whether to go for it, but instead, it is about how to get there. Most enterprises have already made the leap to Software as a Service (SaaS), which can be called the gateway to the cloud. But moving a data-rich system and applications entirely on the cloud can prove to be a challenge. Despite the convenience and affordability, the actual migration process presents a number of difficulties. These challenges arise partially due to the design of traditional applications.
Here is a list of obstacles that companies are known to face, and how to overcome them.
1.Training of IT Personnel
Organization’s technical staff may not be trained in the skills necessary to make a smooth transition. If the company has had its own servers for a long time, migration to the cloud can be complicated. This is where leveraging consultants from the cloud service provider can help to make the transition an easier process and train the IT team.
2. Integration Strategy
Deployment and integration strategy are some of the key challenges that companies struggle with. To take full advantage of the technology being installed, the business needs to be restructured with a proper strategy which is a lot more than just implementing the software. Once everything is up and running, it is just the adoption throughout the enterprise which might take time.
3. Gaps in Skill
One of the biggest challenges that companies come across is the lack of skills required to operate cloud system efficiently. Modern software architecture, security concept in cloud, tools, and techniques are areas that many organizations struggle with. A way to deal with these would be to hire competent staff or train existing staff to cope with the new environment. Also, cloud providers offer round the clock technical support if the need arises.
4. Bandwidth and Speed
Internet connection becomes of critical importance once all services are in the cloud. A reliable internet service is a concern as well as proper bandwidth. Sending large amount of data over a local network is easier, but when everyone is working on a single network to a cloud server, one needs to be sure the internet connection is secure. It is advised to have internet service from more than one provider to be on the safer side in case one has an issue.
5. Security and Maintenance
One of the major components of cloud-based software is security. It is often easy to forget to comply with stored and migrated data regulations, however, it is paramount to make sure protocols are being followed in the midst of migration and post-migration. The complete endeavor should be carefully managed.
6. Clear goals
Before moving to the cloud, one should be clear with their plan and the benefits they want to receive from the migration. Without clear goals, organizations can end up with cost overruns or security issues and more. Moving to the cloud is not a lift and shift operation, it needs proper planning with the staff and cloud service provider.
7. Performance Issues
Many web services are built with an assumption about the close proximity of application and its database servers. This means low network latency for users. If these servers are moved to the cloud one by one, it may create a performance issue. To overcome this, consider migration of users in batches and running the cloud infrastructure simultaneously.
8. Missing Advantages of the Cloud
If only the traditional software is being moved to the cloud, benefits may not be used. To truly take proper advantage of cloud technology, one must consider cloud entities as spendable. Create, customize, use new features, do not hesitate to experiment. Backup is created and stored automatically so there is no threat of data loss.
9. Encryption and Backup
Some organizations might be skeptical to shift their sensitive data to a third party host. While some fears might be exaggerated, but it is not easy to trust anyone with data. Create backups and encrypt files everywhere for peace of mind.
10. Changes throughout the Enterprise
It is natural that the digital transformation that cloud migration brings will change the way people access information, the finances, technical operations, etc. addressing to these changes and adopting them at every department is crucial for the migration to succeed.
Migration to the cloud is a one-way trip which should be made with utmost care. We at SageNext Infotech provide cloud hosting for leading accounting and tax software like QuickBooks, Sage, Drake, and Lacerte. Our solutions are available at an affordable price range and a dedicated technical team is available for round the clock support if the need arises.
