Cloud Migration

A: Migrating is the process of transferring data from one platform to another, such as the cloud. Such data generally consists of databases, IT processes, and applications. This data can be migrated from the local network to the cloud for backup or as part of a new cloud-based operating platform or for the purpose of cloud to cloud backup. Generally, these types of migrations are best handle by Managed IT services or at least by IT consulting services of some kind. Typically, once a company has grown to the point of putting all their applications in the cloud, they have already contracted with IT support, but if not, it may be time. Many decent options can be found by Googling ‘IT Support Los Angeles’.

A:  These services enable and perform the transfer of data to a cloud platform. While there are some companies that specialize in moving businesses to the cloud, the smart money is to have your IT support company do it. Some of the host cloud services such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, Azure, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) offer these tools and services to help their clients migrate into their platforms.

The problem here is that involving either a 3^rd party service or the host to whom the data is migrating handle the transfer puts the client at odds with their current Managed IT services provider. Simply put, most Managed Services Providers or IT support companies have set up the local ‘legacy’ network, and any guarantees they have provided may become null and void once the client starts letting someone else ‘fiddle around’ with the network.

A:  The very first step is to have a Cloud Readiness Assessment performed. Among the crucial points this will shed light on are the ease with which data and applications can be migrated, the time frame involved, aby potential disruption to the client’s operations during and after the data transfer, necessary security requirements, and determine the budget for the new cloud platform. This requires an in-depth analysis of the client’s current IT infrastructure, so it should be performed by a qualified Managed IT Services firm. Typically, it is not recommended to have this done by a dime-a-dozen ‘IT guy’ for hire.

After the assessment has identified any problem areas, logistical planning is required so as to not disrupt company operations. The migration team needs to be chosen, with well-defined roles – again they should be technicians from your Managed Services Provider.

Then, as a good client, step out of the way and let the IT services team do the work.

A:  Data such as email is fairly easy, but apps can be a headache if not prepared. Once you’ve chosen the best cloud vendor and migration partner (your IT support provider), use those resources to determine what needs to be done to integrate your infrastructure with the cloud. Constant testing is required, although with every month the process becomes more ‘push-button’ (NOTE: ‘more’ - NOT ‘completely’).

Presumably, your IT services provider has mapped out everything from Storage I/O requirements to CPU usage for database requirements to backups, business continuity and disaster recovery management. Without having this work already done by a qualified cloud migration expert/IT support and services provider, don’t expect it to run smoothly, because it most likely will not.

A:  It’s the blueprint for the move to the cloud, consisting of steps laid out in the previous Qs & As:

1. Cloud Readiness Assessment
2. Planning & Preparation
3. Ease of Data/Apps Integration to the Cloud
4. Migration & Validation
5. Testing

A:  Once the migration plan is developed, it becomes an actionable project. Think of a motorcycle daredevil planning a jump: everything from bike weight, distance, both ramps elevation, even wind factors are considered. This part is exactly what your migration plan is. But now comes the time that you kick-start the bike and put it in gear, ready to jump.

Bear in mind: Even the most cloud-accomplished Managed Services Provider will find surprises as they implement the plan and begin the project. Many factors involved in these migrations are not ‘cookie-cutter’. Even with the best analysis of how the client data and apps will integrate with the cloud platform, things come up. This is the IT equivalent of a heart transplant.

A: This synonymous with the migration plan. All the hard work of spotting and anticipating potential issues must be addressed through strategy – the overall objective and tactics – the step-by-step procedures to accomplish the goal.

Again, as stated in other of these Qs & As, do not try this yourself. Utilize your IT support and services provider, or better yet, make use of qualified and experienced Managed IT Services. If you are new to IT Support, just Google ‘IT Support Los Angeles’ and start talking to people. You will find the experts you need.