We recently wrote a blog on the top reasons to move to the cloud, and in it listed simplified application hosting as one of those reasons.
Why? Because moving applications to the cloud simplifies internal IT by making it so that servers, storage and operating system software don't need to be installed locally. The cloud also doesn’t require the maintenance and upgrades that on-premise applications need.
Moving Applications to the Cloud
Instead, cloud applications only require a strong internet connection and can be accessed from anywhere, saving time and money by cutting client software installation on individual PCs and avoiding hours of deployment, upgrades and troubleshooting.
Asking your IT department to assist in moving an application to the cloud is definitely a best practice. To prepare you for what to expect when moving applications to the cloud, here are the points you need to consider:
1. Permission
Do you have authority to move your application and data outside your organization? Make sure you have covered all your bases and everyone is on board.
2. Access
Be sure you only provide access to those that should see it. Nobody wants their data at risk.
3. Backup
Most people assume that cloud providers include backing up your data as part of the service, but that is often false. Double-check to make sure backup is included with the app.
4. Licensing
Does your cloud provider include the proper software licensing – or do you need to do it yourself?
5. Testing
Have multiple people test the application prior to widespread use to avoid disappointment, frustration and lost productivity – or even worse, chaos!
6. Pricing
Understand the pricing model of the hosting provider to avoid surprises. Bandwidth usage fees may or may not be included and are very difficult to predict.
If you are unsure, contact an expert. It will be money well spent.
Read More: Moving to the Cloud: Which Cloud Provider Should You Choose?
