3 Paths to Cloud Computing

Migrating to the cloud is more complex because there is cost and risk associated with moving. Sunken costs on legacy systems may also result in a client uttering those two deal-killing words ‘good enough’ in reference to their existing kit. Arrow distributes software tools that automate the lift and shift process but it’s the job of the MSP to demonstrate the benefits to the client. Migrations usually involve IaaS and PaaS offerings for newer applications and managed or hosted offerings for older systems. Especially when a client has done in-house development on a particular platform and the cost to modernize far outweigh the benefits, which brings us to developing on the cloud.

Cloud Development

Developing on the cloud is the most complex investment for clients from a ease-of-use standpoint but can also generate the highest ROI. Platforms like IBM’s Bluemix offer cloud services and APIs that make developing and deploying easier than ever. The decision to buy vs build is a big one but clients that see differentiation or a competitive advantage are likely to invest. The opportunity for providers here is huge because of the drag on services and the resulting consumption at scale.

Now back to our example. Over time, the company with the three-year mandate can deploy all new workloads to the cloud easily and wait for others to have major upgrade events. IaaS, Paas, and SaaS offerings will streamline the effort. Certain existing workloads will be easier to migrate than others and there are tools and assessment services available to ensure success. DevOps in the cloud requires choosing the right platform and having the ability to execute in the long run – preferably with the right provider as a partner.

At the end of the day, there is no ‘cloud’, just a different server in a different location wrapped with new types of software and services. Our job is to make our client’s goals a reality and the faster we can make it happen the sooner we can all buy yachts.

About the Author

James Morrison is a veteran of the IT industry with more than a decade of experience in marketing, business development, and brand management. He is currently responsible for Arrow’s go-to-market strategy around cloud and managed services. James frequently speaks at trade events about the channel model of the future in which VARs and MSPs can grow in the new IT economy.