How To Integrate Your Business In The Cloud

More and more attention is paid to cloud computing services these days. Cisco predicts that the share of cloud computing power worldwide will grow to 94% by 2021, and there is a reason for this huge expected market share.

The point is that cloud services are a cutting edge alternative to traditional data centers. Here are the main aspects that make them a reliable option:

Availability. Once your files are in the cloud, they will be available on different devices. You can get them anywhere whenever you need;
Cloud security. Identity management, physical and personal security, data encryption - all these levels of security ensure the integrity and confidentiality of your data;
Scalability. Most cloud service providers offer flexible cloud solutions. As businesses grow, they can expand their cloud computing capabilities without migration and server management. It's comfortable;
Profitability. Businesses pay for the cloud capabilities they consume. Small and midsize businesses benefit greatly from this billing model because they often consume far less computing power than traditional data centers provide.

As you can see, moving your software product to the cloud can be a profitable solution. Let's explore the intricacies of cloud computing and find out how to most effectively integrate your software into the cloud.

Cloud Technology: How it works

Cloud software computing and storage is a generalized term that describes all the layers and processes in cloud computing. Let's dive in and understand how this technology works.

Cloud Application: Synergy of On-Premises and Cloud Components

The main idea behind the cloud-based approach is to move all sensitive data and files related to the server to dedicated cloud storage and request client-side data from there. This ensures consistent, 24/7 application availability and lower maintenance costs.

From the user's point of view, software products stored in the cloud and on-premises data center look the same. However, the user will notice a significant difference in performance in the long run. Cloud solutions are generally more reliable and secure. Moreover, they provide the best uptime, which is an undeniable advantage for performance-dependent applications.

In all fairness, cloud computing can fit into just about every segment of software development. You can deploy these solutions anywhere because of their flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Cloud Infrastructure: Service Delivery Model

Cloud service providers deliver their products using cloud infrastructure, which is a system of hardware and software components that creates an environment for the customer to use. In a nutshell, service providers offer customized virtual machines with pre-installed extensions ready to go.

Cloud infrastructure is the main reason why cloud solutions are extremely convenient. You don't need to worry about configuration.

Cloud Orchestration: Become a Cloud Maestro

There are times when a cloud user needs to split their software product into several separate applications and store them in the cloud. We all know how difficult it is to organize a complex software product split into several modules that work independently.

Users solve this problem with Orchestrators, cloud-based firmware from a service provider. Whether it's IBM Orchestrator or Cloudify, orchestration software makes management much easier.

Cloud Migration: What to Keep in Mind

Cloud migration is the final stage of cloud technology integration. It is the process of collecting all business-related items and bringing them to the cloud. This includes all data, business software, and other solution components that are essential to the operation of the business.
Now, while the process seems elementary, pay special attention to the following migration pitfalls:

Data integrity issues. Different platforms support different types of data and schemas. Be prepared to make small changes to your data model;
Stored procedures for migration. SPs are a common database approach for traditional data servers. However, they are not widely supported by cloud environments;
Security issues. You may find it difficult to maintain a high level of security during the migration process. More importantly, you won't get as much control as you are used to in your dedicated data center. You should explore the security capabilities of your chosen cloud provider and make the most of them.

Just make sure you consider these aspects and stick to your migration plan.

Cloud Integration: Migration Roadmap and Tips

Now that you know how cloud computing affects the business ecosystem, let's take a look at a migration plan that won't last forever and figure out how to make the migration as cost-effective as possible.

1. Collect Your Business Information

The very first step of cloud integration is collecting requirements. Here are the first questions you should get answers to:

Sensitivity to downtime. You need to understand the significance of your application by understanding how long it is ready for downtime;
Current production level. Find out if your solution is in development, testing, preparation, or working. This determines how flexible your software is at the moment.

2. Select a Cloud Provider

Select the most suitable service provider based on the results of the first step. You may need a specific operating system and data structure, or strict adherence to budget constraints.

Fortunately, major cloud providers offer TCO calculators to make budgeting easier, whether it's AWS, Azure, or Google.

3. Package Your Solution

Okay, we have collected all the necessary data and chose a service provider. Now it's time for the real migration process. Make sure you follow the integration guidelines of your chosen cloud provider. Back up all your data and files and let the process begin.

Cloud computing is a progressive way of storing and implementing your software product these days. The wide range of services on the market allows you to create a flexible and cost-effective solution for your business.

Conclusion

iTexico, now part of Improving Enterprises, specializes in cloud migration. We’re dedicated to ensuring your shift to the cloud is done as smoothly and efficiently as possible. If you’re interested in learning more about our cloud development and migration services, please contact us so we can get started on helping you.

About the Author

Melisa Marzett is a freelance writer who writes essays, articles, etc. She works for custom essay writing help services custom writer online paper assistance and does a lot of traveling. She loves sports and fashion but she is not a bigot. She is an introvert but loves communication at times. She does not like empty talk and more of a listener. She likes being asked for advice and give a helping hand.