That cloud computing offers huge benefits to small and large enterprises is beyond doubt but still companies express dissatisfaction. The problem is not with the cloud computing services but with decision makers in business who have made decisions based on lack of knowledge. Every business and its managers in charge of information must have some key cloud computing skills in order to make the right choices.
- Knowledge of cloud technologies: This is an absolute must before any business owner or managers decide to shift to the cloud. Moving to the cloud means placing greater reliance on broadband internet connection. A decision to shift starts with considering a company’s internet connection capabilities and whether it will be able to cope with the large amounts of data movement.
- Contract negotiation: Cloud services come in a variety of flavors and each service provider has his own terms. A manager must know about the technologies involved, security features and services available in order to negotiate contracts as well as service level agreements. Once a service is moved to the cloud the business owner cannot afford downtimes, compromised data security, difficulty in access or any glitches.
- Mobile access: A business manager or those in charge of IT must know about mobile app development either in house or by the cloud service provider since the staff will be using mobile devices to carry out functions.
- Knowledge of cloud and big data: Big data plays a crucial role in providing predictive reports that can help managers take decisions ahead of market developments. Knowledge of big data and cloud integration will help them leverage this technology to their advantage.
- Greater coordination between business managers and IT personnel: If and when a decision is taken to move to the cloud it does not make IT personnel redundant. Such IT personnel would need to acquire knowledge of cloud computing, cloud infrastructure and app development for clouds that, in turn, would help them make better use of the move to the cloud.
- Evaluating the entire process: Managers must know that shifting to the cloud is not just about moving data. There are factors such as data security, regulatory compliances, software and data access and control. Knowledge about public, private and hybrid clouds comes in useful. Managers must also know how to evaluate vendors based on downtime history, pricing structure, security and data accessibility.
- Changing the mindset: For many people cloud technology means storage of data. The cloud has more to offer by way of services and software. Changing the mindset is important if companies are to get full benefits. This involves research and acquisition of knowledge or appointing suitable consultants who can help guide them to make the right decisions. If and when a decision is made to shift to the cloud, people must know what they hope to achieve and the time frame in which their objectives must be met. Just shifting to the cloud without appropriate internal changes to workflow will also not give full benefits, something managers need to consider.
