Cloud migration has fast become a consideration that business leaders can no longer ignore. With more user-friendly tools and intuitive platforms than ever before, like Microsoft Azure, businesses that harness the cloud for their operations have a growing advantage over their competitors. Cloud computing is no longer exclusive to larger enterprises or tech-savvy companies. It is accessible to any business and can streamline operations, adapt to changing demands and enhance communication between workers. Ultimately, businesses that utilise the cloud become more productive, efficient and collaborative, no matter their size.
Despite the competitive edge it provides, there are still many businesses that are reluctant to migrate to the cloud. According to research, there are perceptions that the cloud migration process may be too costly, too risky and low value compared to the investment. Other business leaders believe, due to the use of terms like ‘artificial intelligence’, that using the cloud will remove human decision-making power*.
Other common cloud myths include:
These myths are easily dispelled with the right cloud platform and migration process. Microsoft Azure, for example, provides a user-friendly process designed to help businesses achieve a return on their investment, with thousands of applications that can help operations become more efficient and effective.
Here are the truths behind these common cloud myths.
Microsoft has worked hard to ensure Azure is one of the most secure cloud platforms in the world. With around $1 billion invested every year in cyber security and a team of more than 3,500 global cybersecurity experts, Microsoft Azure is fully supported 24/7 to keep your business safe and operational.
It also provides built-in disaster recovery and backup capabilities that reduce the impact and likelihood of potential downtime and data loss. It is why it boasts 99.95% availability for its users, with continual health monitoring facilitated by a network of data centres in more than 60 regions around the world.
While some familiarisation time is required for any new technology, you won’t need advanced IT knowledge to become comfortable with the cloud. Microsoft Azure, for example, is designed to be user-friendly and allow any business to flourish.
Users can also leverage ongoing support; there are online resources available if you want to access a how-to guide for your specific needs. Spirit also provides subsidised Azure technical training through Microsoft Learning and accredited partners, and Microsoft Azure engineers are available to contact for their expertise.
Any downtime experienced during the migration process with Azure is minimal and will not impact your business’ outcomes. That is because Azure’s migration process includes a comprehensive assessment to determine strategies, workloads, costs and capacity. This crucial step helps inform a migration roadmap that charts a path for your business to join the cloud without significantly disrupting your day-to-day operations.
Microsoft Azure’s cloud assessment provides information in the form of a comprehensive report which Spirit helps organise and deliver within 72 hours of the assessment.
The report informs whether your business is cloud-ready or has a lot to process. It may reveal that migrating to Microsoft Azure will be a short experience, or that you might benefit from a phased approach over time to minimise disruption. Either way, the assessment will give you the information you need to ensure the migration process suits your business.
Modern technology requires more storage and processing power than ever. As businesses deal with more data, legacy systems that weren’t built for new requirements can struggle to keep up. On-premises infrastructure can also incur significant expenses for regular maintenance and upgrades. Microsoft Azure, however, operates on a subscription-based model where maintenance and software updates are taken care of. This not only reduces your financial burden but also ensures that you can access the latest features and security patches without the need for extensive in-house IT resources.
Microsoft Azure provides tools that help you monitor, manage and reduce your operational costs. These tools can maximise your investment in the cloud setting spending thresholds, streamlining business processes and optimising workloads. By using Azure’s cost management tool, you can monitor and change your spending, potentially saving up to 34% in your first year.
Now that we’ve highlighted the truth about common cloud migration myths, this is your chance to bring your business into the future. You can register for a Cloud Assessment with Spirit to begin a hassle-free migration to Microsoft Azure.
From there, our dedicated team will take you through the migration process and facilitate a seamless, secure transition for all systems, data and applications. Discover how Microsoft Azure can drive your business toward greater success with powerful cloud services, greater innovation, enhanced collaboration and more.
Don’t miss out. Request your Cloud Assessment today and start moving your business to new heights. Talk to us today.
Whether you're just starting your journey to the cloud, looking to optimise your existing infrastructure or improve your cyber security posture, we're here to help.
