EVOLVE Business and Professional Magazine November 2016 | Page 24

Data Security. One of the biggest concerns we hear from to your systems and data, so you should be comfortable with their cloud-based data. In many cases, cloud computing is a whether (1) they use a resident help desk staff or outsource to businesses migrating to the cloud is the risk of others accessing MORE secure way of accessing and storing data than using your own IT systems. Smaller businesses often can’t afford to secure their networks the way a cloud provider can, or they don’t properly maintain their in-house networks with security updates, who they are and where they are located. Find out beforehand a third party and (2) the help desk is U.S.-based or located in another country. An in-house help desk staffed by friendly and helpful employees is one of the most important aspects of your cloud service provider’s customer service. The benefits of cloud computing are far reaching, from reduced costs and low maintenance to increased performance and security. By performing the necessary research and taking an honest look at your needs, you can determine whether it’s right for you and get off to a good start. For virtually all businesses, working with an IT expert is the best way to help you evaluate alternative scenarios and develop a comprehensive plan to optimize your migration. If you don’t have an in-house IT expert, it’s important to do your homework before hiring an outside IT consultant or firm for your migration. Anyone can claim to be a “cloud expert,” however, even with honest intentions an inexperienced software patches, and up-to-date antivirus software. Reputable consultant can cost you a lot in reduced network speed or tools in place. They have teams of security experts constantly firm with proper credentials and a good track record. Find a firm cloud providers have robust firewalls and other data security monitoring their networks for signs of attack or breach, and they respond immediately to any signs of trouble. Documentation. Your cloud service provider should provide you with both paper and electronic versions of the documentation detailing your software licenses, critical passwords, user information, hardware inventory, etc. at no additional cost. They should also regularly update this information and provide it to your organization’s key people. As a side note, NEVER allow a provider to have exclusive control over your company’s IT infrastructure. If you suspect that your current IT provider is “keeping the keys to the kingdom” as a means of job security, get rid of them. Such practices are unethical and dangerous to your organization. Multiple Technicians. A good cloud se rvice provider will have multiple technicians on staff that are familiar with your network in case your regular technician is unavailable. Your cloud performance and lost or corrupt data files. Be sure to look for a ” that can handle your needs from the planning stage, through your cloud transition, and beyond. The benefits of cloud computing are far reaching, from reduced costs and low maintenance to increased performance and security. service provider should keep detailed network documentation (basically a blueprint of your computer network) and updates on your account so that any of their technicians can pick up where another left off. Where is the Help? It is inevitable that you will need technical assistance at some point. You probably have criteria of your own about responsiveness and accessibility of help. But remember, too, that your cloud provider’s help desk staff will have access | 24 | EVOLVE BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL MAGAZINE Curtis McCallister is the Manager of Technology Solutions for James Moore and Company, P.L. He has 25 years of experience providing information systems consulting to commercial businesses, governments, and nonprofits. www.jmco.com, 800-455-5676, [email protected].