With almost 90 percent of companies already using some form of cloud computing, it’s clear that the cloud is here to stay. For most companies, it makes sense to partner with a managed cloud services provider for their cloud computing needs. Here’s a brief overview of how managed clouds work – and five reasons why they’re superior to running your own cloud.
Managed cloud
Cloud computing lets you access various computing services on demand, including storage, software, and databases. The problem is, most companies don’t have the expertise or time to design and configure their own cloud. That’s where managed clouds come in. A managed cloud allows your company to access cloud computing even if you know very little about cloud design and infrastructure. In other words, a managed cloud services provider will:
- Decide on the right cloud for your business
- Handle your configuration, design, and storage needs
- Offer you the support you need, when you need it
So, what can a managed cloud offer your company?
Benefits of managed cloud services
While managed cloud services offer many lasting advantages for your organization, here are the main benefits you should know about.
1: Scalable resources
Most importantly, managed cloud computing is entirely scalable to your needs. This means you can instantly scale up and down depending on business fluctuations. If you opt for a managed cloud, there’s no need to maintain or pay for excess resources you don’t need.
2: Predictable costs
According to a Gartner report, companies spend nearly 19 percent of their IT budget on cloud computing, and this figure is only set to increase. With managed cloud computing, there’s no need to overextend your IT budget – you can pay a fixed monthly service plan, helping you keep your expenditure predictable.
3: Reliable services
By monitoring your servers 24/7, cloud service providers help to reduce your downtime and improve your productivity. Your cloud services are available when you need them most, day or night. And, if there’s a malfunction, you know that experts are on hand to solve the problem.
4: Consistent compliance
Don’t worry about your data protection requirements. Your provider can design a safe cloud environment and draft an effective compliance strategy for whichever industry you operate in, from healthcare to finance.
5: Secure processes
Since managed service providers can monitor your network and cloud continuously, your data stays safe. You will benefit from professional backup strategies, network monitoring, intrusion detection, and disaster planning.
Implementing the cloud
Rolling out managed cloud solutions across your business is simple. Briefly, here’s how it works.
- You decide what you need from cloud computing, taking into consideration your budget and security needs.
- With the support of a managed cloud provider, you pick the right cloud for your business.
- Set up a phased migration plan so everything going over to the cloud moves there in manageable stages.
- Offer training and support to your employees.
Your managed cloud provider can talk you through these stages in detail so you’ll be supported every step of the way.
Managed cloud services
From boosting operational efficiency to reducing your IT costs, a managed cloud provides crucial benefits across your business. For more information on managed cloud services and how to take your company online, contact us today.
