Hybrid Cloud Solutions

Avoid Dangerous Cloud Migration Mistakes with these 4 Tips

August 28, 2023 | By Ryan Felkel

Unstructured data is the efficiency elephant in the room for most businesses. In fact, 95% of businesses need to manage unstructured data. Until you get a hold of the systems and process behind your data, your business is operating in the dark. A well-organized cloud environment can put your data and your business on a clear, secure footing.

But, you’ll have to migrate that data from point A to point B. Here’s how you can avoid the dangerous cloud migration mistakes that can sidetrack anyone if they’re not careful.

#CloudMigration isn’t an easy thing to do alone. @Opti9Tech says you can use these tips to avoid cloud migration mistakes that can tank your #efficiency: Click To Tweet

Assess Your Options

Before making a big business decision, there’s always a period of research and review. Efficient cloud migration should be handled in a similar process. Over the past few years, cloud migration has become more widely adopted. Now, 95% of businesses need to manage unstructured data. As more companies adopt cloud data storage, the cloud services industry continues to expand with new offerings.

Not all cloud companies are equal.

With subtle differences, each migration provides customized solutions for your unique needs. For those researching cloud migration, there are a few good options to consider. 93% of cloud beginners rely on AWS and Azure to help them achieve their data storage goals. These platforms offer a simple transition into cloud storing and can help to ease some nervous minds on your team. Before you commit to using a service like this, there are a few things you must consider. Ask yourself:

  • What type of cloud environment do you need? (i.e., private, public, or hybrid)
  • What’s the workload?
  • How much space do you need?
  • Do you need IaaS, PaaS, or SaaS?

Keeping these questions in mind while deciding on a provider will ensure that you find the right vendor for your needs.

Do Your Homework

Cloud migrations have many variables that, if left unaccounted for, can derail the endeavor for days, weeks, or even months. A comprehensive strategy can go a long way to keeping your migration on track. This plan requires a two-fold vision:

  1. Your company should understand gaps in its current system
  2. You should be aware of the benefits of moving to the cloud

Use this research process as an opportunity to take an objective look at the operations of your company. A move to the cloud will permeate every aspect of your company’s relationship with data. Before you start, make sure you thoroughly assess your systems and refine your processes. Doing so will streamline your migration process, creating a productive and efficient transition.

The good news? You don’t have to do it alone! An advanced consulting partner can help serve as an experienced guide throughout the whole process. The right qualified partner will make sure the process is smooth and secure, while also allowing your team to stay focused on day-to-day responsibilities.

The right consulting partner can make the difference between a smooth #migration and one full of stops and starts. Here’s how @Opti9Tech can help you keep your #CloudMigration on track: Click To Tweet

Take Your Time

Many cloud migration mistakes arise when you bite off more than you can chew. The cloud migration process is just that, a process. You shouldn’t move everything all at once.  Take your time and prioritize what needs to be in the cloud, and when.

One way to start is by moving your non-essential data first, as a test. This gives you the space to slowly move towards your bigger and more challenging projects. Many organizations have seen success with this method, since it enables you to move forward without risking your more essential business practices. By taking the time to test your data migration, you can move forward without encountering large roadblocks.

Continue to Monitor Your Progress

The job doesn’t stop once your data is moved. One big mistake organizations make is thinking that the cloud migration is over once they’ve input all their data. When it comes to cloud migration, it is not a one-and-done case. You’ve got to constantly monitor the cloud environment along with your cloud provider to make sure the relationship continues to be mutually beneficial..

Once all your data is moved over, we can take care of cloud management and optimization! After that, it’s important to train your staff on how to use the cloud. If you’ve done a good job communicating with them on the overall migration strategy, it’s likely they’ll be on board with learning cloud services. Having your staff buy-in on your cloud migration strategy will help to create an efficient process for your whole business. When your team understands the need for enhanced security and protective measures it leads to a  more secure cloud across the board with your employees understanding the need for secure passwords and other necessary protective measures.

When it comes to cloud migration, understanding cloud migration mistakes to avoid can make the difference between your data being at risk in the wild or your business moving into a secure, efficient, and forward-thinking cloud space.

Partnering up with an experienced cloud-consulting partner can remove the stress from migration and allow you to remain focused on your day-to-day tasks. Opti9’s cloud GamePlan can serve as the perfect guide to your migration process. Schedule a free consultation, and take the first step towards more efficient data.