Intelligent SME.tech Issue 18 | Page 17

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// TECH TRENDS // fee is too small , this could be a sign that the MSP is relying on the basic Azure backup feature alone .

Additionally , the move to the cloud can be a great opportunity to improve an organisation ’ s overall security posture by implementing secure identity management and multi-factor authentication across all applications – so it ’ s important to discuss security with the migration partner , too , and ask how well the new infrastructure is protected against cyberattacks .
When it comes to making the most of the advantages the cloud offers post migration , businesses should expect more agility and this can be immediate : being able to expand licences and workloads as needed , for example when moving into new regions , opening new offices or onboarding new employees . Often , applications that were constrained by old on-premises hardware will perform better , bringing added business value . But it doesn ’ t end there .
Once the cloud infrastructure is running , mature and stable , organisations should also have an open discussion with their MSP about optimising their operating costs in the cloud . Is there a way to optimise workloads and save costs without compromising performance and quality ?
Finally , it ’ s worth looking at quality of services reports and using analytics to make sure the cloud continues to deliver value in the medium and long term . Evaluate the cost of the cloud services used versus their business benefits , and demand that your MSP demonstrates value during quarterly business reviews .
If appropriate , have a roadmap for how to develop your business further , with templates for geographic expansion that exploit the elastic nature of the cloud . Make an ongoing effort to protect the assets you have in the cloud so you can survive future outages and cyberattacks . And above all , know what you want to achieve for your business – remember the cloud is only a vehicle to help you reach your goals , not a goal in itself . �

CLOUD SERVICES CAN EXPERIENCE MAJOR OUTAGES THAT DUE TO THEIR ‘ BLAST RADIUS ’ HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON VERY LARGE NUMBERS OF CUSTOMERS .
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