Speed Bumps of Cloud Migration

Heading into a new year brings resolutions and evolution for most businesses. In the CloudCheckr world, that means looking at how organizations are strategically leveraging the cloud to grow and innovate faster. It’s interesting to note where the sticking points remain, from security concerns to organizational challenges of scale. In a recent report from industry analyst firm 451 Research, key issues surrounding cloud migration speed bumps are explored in depth.

Security in the public cloud

With AWS and Azure offering nearly the same (if not better) security and functionality for platforms in the public cloud as through enterprise-built solutions, organizations must take note of the shared security models in place—and be prepared to do their part. “Organizations that are operating in this environment will require comprehensive, proactive and adaptive threat protection embedded into the fabric of the businesses,” the report notes. This also means taking note of the different cloud governance solutions that can address a business’ unique industry, vertical, and organizational legacy needs.

Automated DevOps is a must

As businesses migrate more applications to the cloud, visibility and insights to enable continuous improvements will be more important than ever to operationalize efficiencies. As 451 reports, “Advisory and planning tools will be required to help answer the questions about which apps should move to the cloud, which cloud to use and what the cost will be… This is why consumption planning, optimization, measurement and chargeback – providing multi-level cost visibility across all projects and providers – is becoming a precondition for launching a cloud initiative.”

Unified CMPs will win

Cloud management platforms that enable integrations with existing tools to allow maximum flexibility and visibility will be critical for easing migration pains. Modular approaches, especially, can offer maximum functionality to address unique business needs. “A CMP enables users to make data-driven decisions in the selection of cloud applications and services. This includes (but is not limited to) cost, compliance, utility, governance and auditability.”