Cloud computing has become the standard in cost-effective IT management. However, many organizations in Western New York continue to maintain their on-premise systems and are not giving up infrastructure control to a third party.
If you head a business adamant about keeping all IT resources in-house in the Buffalo Niagara region, you should reconsider. Review the value of cloud versus on-prem IT systems to take your enterprise to the next level.
The Hefty Price of Having an On-Premise System
Proponents of on-premise IT systems argue that cloud solutions negatively affect cash flow because of their recurring fees. The truth is that the cloud isn’t cost-prohibitive. Conversely, budgeting for in-house infrastructure is more challenging because of these expenses:
Hardware: An on-premise system is capital-intensive and has limited capacity, requiring costly upgrades when you need more resources. On-premise equipment also has a short shelf life — you must replace it to ensure high performance and maintain a solid cybersecurity posture.
Training: A competent IT team is behind every operational and secure on-premise system. However, upskilling your staff regularly to stay current with trends and adapt to changing times can be expensive.
Security: On-premise systems can be more susceptible to cyberattacks than cloud-based ones. Overburdened IT teams are less equipped to neutralize threats because they have to handle overwhelming cybersecurity duties.
Electricity: IT systems consume electricity nonstop to operate. If you own the hardware, you shoulder 100% of energy costs.
Downtime: On-premise hardware is more likely to go offline for lengthier periods due to natural disasters, maintenance, cyberattacks, human error, theft and vandalism.
Financial Prudence — Cloud Infrastructure Savings
Adopting cloud solutions translates to cost-effective IT management. You never have to worry about the cost of buying, securing, maintaining and upgrading servers. Seamlessly moving your software licenses to your cloud provider also translates into savings. Since your staff has fewer responsibilities, you can spend less on training and continuous education.
Operational Efficiency With the Cloud
Although enterprise resource planning software programs hosted on-site are accessible from anywhere with a corporate virtual private network, cloud systems inherently support mobile accessibility. Cloud users only need an internet connection to access company resources quickly using any device, with company-mandated updates going out automatically.
Moreover, cloud vendors offer scalable IT solutions. You can rent only the resources you need, allowing you to upgrade or downgrade your plan as your business requirements change.
Cloud Security and Compliance
Cloud service providers share the burden of cybersecurity with clients. These vendors own data centers or lease colocation facilities with tight physical and cybersecurity measures. They employ experienced IT professionals dedicated to hunting vulnerabilities and combating threats.
Local service providers are familiar with regulations businesses in various industries across Western New York must follow to avoid breaking laws. For example, a reputable cloud solutions provider can help you comply with the General Data Protection Regulation when handling sensitive information of European Union residents.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cloud Service Provider
Cloud vendors aren’t equal. Consider these factors to determine which one best suits your unique business needs.
Solutions
Cloud service providers can choose to cater to organizations that need software only, require a platform to deploy and manage apps, or demand complete infrastructure. They invest in computing resources — such as servers, storage, networking and virtualization — based on their target clients.
Determine your computing needs, identify your pain points and learn about the services your prospective vendors offer to see whether they’re a good fit.
Price Structure
On-demand or pay-as-you-go is the dominant pricing model in the cloud industry because most clients want to pay only for what they use. Still, you may encounter auction-based schemes and volume discounts.
Support
Migration support is a standard service when transitioning from on-premise to cloud. However, a credible vendor is a dependable long-term partner. Study how a service provider extends technical assistance to feel confident about dealing with future challenges.
Track Record
Cloud solutions providers publicize their performance data or provide it by request. Review your prospective vendors’ recent figures against their service level agreements to know how reliable they are over time.
Headquarters
Domestic vendors can be an ideal choice because they’ll have an understanding of local regulations and likely operate in your time zone for convenient communication. Using a Buffalo cloud solutions provider with a proven track record can give you peace of mind.
Embrace Cloud Solutions to Take Your Business in Buffalo to New Heights
Cloud solutions unlock cost-effective IT management, reducing expenses and boosting productivity. Partner with PremCom — an Amherst, New York-based vendor with more than 30 years of industry excellence — to ensure your cloud migration goes as smoothly as possible.
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