Cloud migration is a process that can’t be completed overnight. There are plenty of challenges involved that could significantly affect your operations such as costs, user resistance, and skill shortage. If done haphazardly, the migration can bring even more issues than benefits.
That’s why it’s ideal for businesses to seek the help of a managed IT services provider (MSP) to handle this complicated process for them. All MSPs will promise a seamless migration to the cloud. However, not all MSPs are the same, so you have to carefully examine which one is the best fit for your needs. How do you know which one to go for? Here are some questions you should ask when vetting a cloud provider:
#1. What cloud services do they offer?
There are various cloud solutions that a provider should offer. For software, a particular MSP may use Dropbox for document storage, Salesforce for customer relationship management (CRM), and Intuit for online accounting.
There are enterprises that provide an array of cloud computing solutions for general purposes such as IT infrastructures combined with on-demand access to software, applications, and virtual servers. Popular cloud solutions include Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, and IBM SmartCloud Enterprise. Take time to research which solution fits your cloud computing needs.
Talk to the provider about your company’s biggest problems and what solutions you require. Doing so allows the MSP to understand your needs and provide a cloud migration strategy that meets them instead of a generic solution.
#2. How do they protect your data?
Data security is non-negotiable when it comes to cloud migrations. MSPs should be constantly updated on the latest cyberthreats and preventive security measures. For peace of mind, ensure that the provider has a good security track record by checking if the MSP has ever experienced a security breach. Check reviews on Google, Facebook, and visit their website for client testimonials.
The ideal provider must also have comprehensive security measures such as antivirus programs, firewalls, routine security audits, data encryption, and multifactor authentication (MFA). Finally, inquire about who will gain access to your cloud data so you can easily identify the source of the security breach.
#3. How much do their services cost?
Pricing will always be a deciding factor when choosing a cloud provider, and businesses should only pay for what they use. Beware of MSPs that promise benefits early but demand gigantic upfront charges, as these are not typical of trustworthy cloud providers.
The optimal pricing model for small- and medium-sized businesses is usually pay-as-you-go, with the ability to scale up and include extra services if needed. Depending on the provider, the costs are typically charged on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual basis.
#4. What is their downtime history?
Downtime is when a cloud service becomes inaccessible to users. While the answer to this question should be “never,” this isn’t realistic. Even the largest cloud vendors experience downtime every now and then.
Opt for a vendor with the fewest instances of cloud outages. It’s also vital for the provider to be transparent when incidents happen. Look for providers that publish their downtime history logs on their websites. It’s always ideal to err on the side of caution when it comes to your business, as extended periods of downtime will not only cost you money, but also customer trust.
If you’re looking for a reliable and trustworthy cloud services provider, look no further than Binatech. We provide all the benefits of a secure and expertly managed data center without the high costs of running your own equipment. Drop us a line today to know more!
