Our external consultants have suggested that a hybrid solution may be useful to those who are not entirely sure about an off site or on site solution. Many businesses have apparently found that having all their data in the cloud may not be the best option. Its all very well using a cloud based software package but what happens when the wrong cable gets cut. Is it always realistic for the entire office team to down tools and rush off to the nearest wi-fi enabled café?
Different systems are not always happy in the cloud, is the band width sufficient etc. So
What does a hybrid solution offer?
We are told that due to cyber-security concerns, many firms are migrating applications and data away from the public cloud in favour of a mix of on-premises and private cloud environments.
Hybrid cloud technology is therefore becoming a more popular solution. A hybrid cloud is a combination of on-premises and off-premises (or cloud-based) IT infrastructure platforms. The hybrid solution allows a business to run applications on multiple platforms. This increases efficiency and allows more flexibility as some software may only be available as a cloud based product.
In addition to allowing firms to choose the right platform for the right systems, a hybrid cloud platform can also create cost savings as well as improved IT performance. These days employees or even your customers may require a cloud based IT solution, however you may want to keep your company financials and client data on-premises, rather than in the cloud, in order to reduce cyber-risks.
Cloud based solutions should enable your team to be more productive.
It can be hard to access systems and files when out on the road. A hybrid cloud solution can allow your mobile team members to access the data they need when they are out and about – essential in today’s “always online” business environment.
Are two systems more costly?
In some ways, the shift to a hybrid cloud solution is a no-brainer. However, it does have its challenges. For example, your business may be used to working with a single, on-premises IT solution which is serviced by a single IT support company that looks after your network, your hardware and your various software systems.
Moving to a hybrid cloud solution may mean that your business needs to work with multiple external IT companies in order to support, manage and protect your on-premises and cloud-based systems. This adds complexity and needs to be carefully managed in order to make it work.
However, if you manage the implementation properly, your firm will benefit from having a more flexible IT infrastructure. As your business grows, you can use your cloud-based technology to scale up without the expense of buying in additional on-premises servers. This can also help you to keep your operational costs in check.
The question remains – On site, off site or a mixture?
We would be interested to hear what works for you. As a practice we are offsite but some of the packages we use do test our band width and at times think on site could be better.
At the next Accelerator Club meeting we will be looking at all aspects of keeping data, whether on or offsite and what are the key points we need to bear in mind when managing our business data.
Why not join us 8.00am 11 July. Booking details available here.