Businesses are constantly looking for new techniques and technologies that can improve their operations, reduce costs and stay competitive. And one approach that we’ve seen a lot of companies turning to is the idea of multi-cloud. But what is a multi-cloud strategy, what does it involve, how does it relate to digital transformation, what benefits could it hold for your business, and is it an approach that you should be taking?
Let’s delve a little further into the ideas behind multi-cloud, and even look at the key success factors that you should look out for if you plan to take this approach.
What Is A Multi-Cloud Strategy?
Let’s start off with the basics – what is a multi-cloud strategy? You’ve heard of cloud before, but what does multi-cloud mean, and why should you be thinking about it for your business?
Taking a multi-cloud approach means using multiple cloud environments from different providers at the same time to store data, run apps and access services. This approach can see your business reducing the risks associated with relying on a single cloud provider, and instead turning to experts for each of your cloud services, without being tied into a single, lengthy contract, and without being able to switch or negotiate better pricing.
What Are The Benefits Of A Multi-Cloud Strategy?
There are plenty of reasons that businesses around the world are implementing multi-cloud strategies rather than relying on a single cloud provider for everything that they need. Some of the key benefits of multi-cloud include:
• Agility And Choice
One of the main benefits of taking the multi-cloud approach is agility and choice. There’s no longer a need to rely on a single provider. With the rise of cloud services, so we’ve seen a rise in PaaS businesses that specialise in meeting specific cloud demands. This gives you the flexibility to choose different partners for different services, based on your unique needs and goals. This means that you’ll be able to adapt quickly if and when your needs change, and avoid any vendor lock-ins or contract penalties.
• Use World Class Services
By using different cloud providers, you can also take advantage of world-class services. With each provider specialising in a particular area, you can pick and choose the best services from each one, creating a customised and comprehensive solution that meets your specific needs. You can rest easy knowing that you’re always dealing with specialised experts in that specific cloud area, rather than general providers of everything under the sun.
• Modernisation And Innovation
Harnessing the power of multi-cloud strategies can rapidly accelerate your business’ modernisation efforts. Because you’re able to take advantage of diverse and specialised services from multiple cloud providers, you’ll be able to continually evaluate your current technology stack and adopt more advanced solutions over time. Taking a multi-cloud approach can also make the transition from legacy systems to modern platforms easier, increasing your efficiency and giving you the opportunity to scale your cloud services as your needs evolve. The strategic integration of new technologies can significantly enhance business operations, improve customer experiences, and foster a culture of technological evolution and innovation within your business, paving the way for sustainable growth and success.
• Enhanced Security
Another one of the notable benefits of a multi-cloud strategy is enhanced security. By using taking a multi-cloud approach, you can protect critical and sensitive information more effectively, and decrease the risk of cyberattacks, minimising any potential damage caused by them. For example, sensitive data can be kept on a private cloud where higher levels of security and control can be maintained, which offer a layer of protection against potential breaches, ensuring that confidential information remains secure. Meanwhile, you can store non-sensitive data on public clouds, which often offer larger storage capacities at lower costs. This multi-cloud approach to storing your data not only enhances security measures but also optimises resource allocation, allowing you to maximise the benefits of both private and public clouds.
• Price Negotiations And Risk Reductions
On top of all the benefits we’ve listed already, taking advantage of a multi-cloud strategy gives you the opportunity to negotiate better pricing with different providers. When you’re tied into a single provider, you’re tied into their pricing as well. If you find another cloud service provider that you’d prefer to use, there’s the risk that you’ll be charged a penalty for cancelling your contract, or you may find that your data and apps are formatted to suit a single platform, rather than being being cloud agnostic (easily transferrable to any platform). By using multiple providers from the start, you can leverage your bargaining power and secure more favorable pricing terms.
Why Should You Opt For A Multi-Cloud Strategy?
Now that we’ve answered the question of what is a multi-cloud strategy and have discussed the benefits, let’s explore why it should be used in the first place. Here are some key reasons:
• Modernise Your Operations
A multi-cloud strategy can help modernise and streamline operations within a business. By taking advantage of different services from various providers, you can incorporate cutting-edge technology into their processes and improve efficiency.
• Take Advantage Of Flexibility And Scalability
A multi-cloud strategy also offers businesses flexibility and scalability. Using different cloud services lets you easily scale up or down your operations based on your unique needs, without being tied to a single provider.
• Follow Best Practices
Using a multi-cloud strategy aligns with best practices in the industry. With more businesses adopting this approach, it has become the norm for companies looking to stay competitive and innovative in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
• Comply With Regulations
Certain industries have strict regulations when it comes to data storage and privacy. By using a multi-cloud strategy, you can ensure that you comply with these regulations by storing your data in different locations and adhering to specific security protocols.
How Does A Multi-Cloud Strategy Enable Digital Transformation?
Digital transformation is the process of using technology to improve your operations. A multi-cloud strategy plays a crucial role in this transformation by providing access to world-class services, modernising your technologies, and enhancing security.
You can leverage the latest cloud services from different providers to improve your processes and bring innovation into your operations. By taking advantage of various platforms, you can also improve your agility and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving market.
How Do You Develop A Multi-Cloud Strategy?
Developing a multi-cloud strategy involves careful planning and consideration. It is essential to assess your current IT infrastructure, identify your business needs, and determine which cloud services would best suit your business. It is also crucial to have a clear understanding of your budget and any potential risks associated with using multiple cloud providers – taking a multi-cloud approach can, after all, involve a lot more work and management of vendors, and can add to the risk of Shadow IT, a practice which sees your humans using cloud services that you may not even be aware of. Working with a team of experienced IT professionals can be a great help in not just developing an effective multi-cloud strategy, but managing your vendors, and making sure that you’re putting best practices in place when it comes to managing your cloud providers.
What Are The Key Success Factors For A Multi-Cloud Strategy
Having a clear understanding of the purpose behind using multi-cloud is crucial for its success. Below are some key factors that contribute to a successful multi-cloud strategy.
Know The Why Of Multi-Cloud: You should have clear objectives and reasons for implementing a multi-cloud strategy. This will help in setting realistic goals and measuring success.
Keep An Eye On Costs: Using multiple cloud services can add up to significant costs if not managed properly. It is essential to regularly monitor and optimise costs to ensure your multi-cloud strategy remains affordable for your business.
Plan For Needed Skills: Adopting a multi-cloud approach requires expertise in managing different cloud platforms. It is important to have a team with the necessary skills and training to handle these services effectively. If you don’t already have a team behind you, working with a technology partner like Solid Systems can be one of your greatest assets.
Measure Progress: Regularly tracking and analysing key performance indicators (KPIs) can help you understand the impact of your multi-cloud strategy. This can help in making informed decisions and identifying areas for improvement.
Adopt Modern Thinking: As technology continues to evolve, so should your multi-cloud strategy. It is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies to ensure your strategy remains relevant and effective.
Where Does Solid Systems Come Into The Picture?
At Solid Systems, we are your reliable technology partner, extending our expertise far beyond simply offering cloud services and managing your IT needs. We understand that navigating the multi-cloud process can be complex. That’s why we work with you to understand your unique needs and goals, develop strategies that will see you making the most of available cloud services, and even offer vendor management, taking the headache out of managing multiple cloud providers.
With over 20 years of experience, and a team of dedicated IT pros behind you offering exceptionally human support, we are here to help you effectively coordinate with various cloud service providers, ensuring seamless integration and efficiency. By partnering with Solid Systems, you can rest assured that your multi-cloud strategy is in capable hands, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – driving your business forward.
So why wait? Schedule a free IT consult with us today and let us help you harness the full potential of a multi-cloud strategy for your business’ success.
