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By: Kanika Vishwakarma
- IT Consulting
- October 3, 2023
- Comments 0
Cloud Management Outsourcing, Why Should you Consider?
Cloud computing emerged as a game changer as every business strives for speed and cost savings. However, managing a cloud infrastructure can be complex and resource-intensive, often distracting your team from strategic efforts. This is where cloud management outsourcing steps in as a robust solution.
Did you know that, according to recent surveys, more than 80% of companies have adopted a multi-cloud strategy? However, a large proportion of them deal with the challenges of optimizing their cloud environment.
In this blog, we’ll explore the world of cloud management outsourcing and why it’s an important consideration for businesses of all sizes. We will explore how this strategy not only streamlines operations but also enhances your ability to compete in a changing digital landscape. Let’s dive in and unpack why Cloud Management Outsourcing should be on your radar.
Cloud Computing vs. Cloud Outsourcing Services
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing enables internet-based access to software, services, and resources, eliminating the need for extensive in-house installations. On the other hand, cloud outsourcing refers to the delegation of IT functions to third-party cloud service providers. Cloud outsourcing is a subset of cloud computing, focusing on the management and maintenance aspects of cloud-based services.
- Service Scope: Cloud computing offers a broad range of computing services and resources. It includes cloud-based applications, servers (physical and virtual), data storage, networking, and development tools.
- Data Hosting: The data supporting these services and resources is stored on remote data servers, which are managed by cloud outsourcing providers.
- User Accessibility: Cloud computing enables multiple users, across diverse locations and devices, to access the same data and services simultaneously.
- Real-time Collaboration: Users can collaborate in real time on projects, such as online document editing.
Cloud Outsourcing
- Service Focus: Cloud outsourcing involves deploying specific functions and processes to a cloud outsourcing provider, with the provider responsible for managing and maintaining these services.
- Payment Structure: Customers pay an ongoing subscription fee in exchange for guaranteed availability, security, updates, and technical support.
- Infrastructure Migration: Cloud service providers can migrate portions of the customer’s legacy infrastructure to the cloud without disrupting daily operations.
- Assessment and Strategy: Providers assess the customer’s existing infrastructure and determine cloud strategy goals before executing a secure, cost-effective, and efficient migration.
What are the types of Cloud Outsourcing?
Herein, we shall delve into the various categories of cloud computing. It encompasses three service models often referred to as a cloud computing stack.
- Software as a Service (SaaS) enables users to access and use cloud-based applications. A provider handles the hosting and maintenance (e.g., Microsoft 365)
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) offers on-demand access to fundamental cloud services like computing power and data storage. This cancels the need for physical servers.
- Platform as a Services (PaaS) provides a comprehensive cloud platform, including hardware and software. It allows users to develop and manage applications without on-premises infrastructure (e.g., Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Infrastructure).
What are the Pros and Cons of Cloud-Based Outsourcing Services?
Every aspect of IT services has its pros and cons. Our team of experts at ECF Data work with Microsoft solutions as a transparent cloud-based outsourcing partner. We would like to lay out all the advantages and disadvantages of these services.
Pros
- Infinite Storage Capacity
In a conventional IT setup, expanding storage necessitates additional hardware, installation, and ongoing maintenance. Conversely, the cloud provider prearranges this infrastructure for scalability. You can effortlessly increase storage capacity with a simple click or even automate it in response to specific requirements.
- Robust Security
Security is typically the main reason companies opt to outsource their cloud services. Many companies lag implementing robust security measures. Panda Security reports that 51% of organizations do not employ tokenization or encryption to safeguard sensitive data in the cloud.
A managed cloud hosting service ensures that your data remains protected. Moreover, they possess enhanced resources, bolstering their capability to protect both their assets and yours.
- Preventive Maintenance
Instead of waiting for issues to occur, IT managers have continuous access to monitor server performance round the clock. Moreover, they take proactive measures to ensure uninterrupted and efficient operation of your applications.
Outsourcing firms provide proactive maintenance services aimed at averting downtime and system failures.
- Scalability and Flexibility
Businesses can swiftly expand or reduce their operations using cloud services, eliminating the need for substantial investments in new hardware or software licenses. Cloud providers can rapidly adjust to fluctuations in demand, offering greater flexibility in business management.
- Automated backup and recovery
Cloud service providers provide automated backup and recovery solutions designed to safeguard your data from unforeseen events like hardware failures.
Through automated backup services, data is regularly and automatically backed up. In case of any issues, you can swiftly restore all your files within minutes. This guarantees minimal downtime for your business during such events, as everything is restored swiftly without the need for manual intervention.
- Lower expenses for infrastructure
Third-party providers offer a pay-as-you-go model, enabling your company to easily adjust its scale based on your needs. Your payment is determined by the specific infrastructure you utilize.
In these situations, there’s no requirement for upfront capital expenditure on dedicated hardware or software, leading to substantial reductions in operational expenses.
Cons
- Reliant on Internet Connection
Cloud computing relies on an internet connection, making it susceptible to disruptions in case of internet outages. However, at the provider’s end, this is a rare issue because cloud service providers employ redundant resources and swiftly replace any failed resources.
In the event of an internet outage at a business using cloud services, employees can often maintain connectivity to the services using a cellular data connection.
- Reduced Command and Self-Governance
Collaborating with a cloud outsourcing provider entail relinquishing a degree of control. The provider assumes responsibility for the operation, upkeep, and enhancement of the cloud infrastructure. Consequently, it is crucial to have trust in the excellence of their offerings, services, and technical assistance. To ensure this, invest time in comprehending the precise scope of their services, encompassing their ability to handle unforeseen workloads and respond to security incidents.
- Communication is different from in-house team
Many, if not most, outsourcing companies respond to requests or issues immediately. However, it may be different as compared to an in-house IT team that is within your arms reach.
What to look for in a Cloud Outsourcing Partner?
When in search of a cloud management service, it is essential to conduct thorough research. Dedicate time to investigate various service providers, assess their offerings, advantages, and pricing models, and seek clarification on any undisclosed particulars.
Reputable cloud outsourcing providers typically address inquiries through their website. However, if this is not the case, ensure you pose the following questions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the agreement:
- Are there long-term contracts that bind you, or is it possible to terminate the service at any time?
- How seamless is it to adjust the scale of services based on changing requirements? Is there an additional cost associated with this flexibility?
- What measures does the provider take to adhere to relevant national, global, and industry-specific regulations and standards?
- What is the provider's response time for technical support inquiries? How quickly will I be notified in case?
- What security measures are in place to safeguard sensitive data? Are there specific requirements for password complexity and mandatory multi-factor authentication? of a data breach or digital threat?
- How frequently is data backed up, and does the provider retain previous versions of files?
- What are the cost advantages of selecting an all-in-one cloud provider (covering data storage, computing, and networking) compared to using separate cloud providers for each service?
What are the Advantages of Outsourcing with ECF Data?
There’s no question about the benefits of outsourcing cloud services. Its rising and continuous demand is also a reflection that most companies struggle to keep up.
ECF Data has exclusively operated within the Microsoft ecosystem for over 13 years. This specialization ensures you receive comprehensive support, both before and after service. Despite our small team size, we leverage this as an advantage, fostering meaningful client relationships. Our approach involves providing adaptable services tailored to our clients’ unique needs and objectives.
Ease the mounting workload on your IT team by reaching out to our experts for top-tier level of services.
