Choosing a managed cloud service provider is a strategic decision for businesses, especially when it involves critical business applications like SAP or others.
Cloud Services for Critical Applications
Companies migrating their systems to the cloud often seek to improve agility, reduce operational costs, and increase scalability. However, they also face challenges such as data security, legacy system integration, and cost optimization in the new environment. An experienced cloud services partner can help navigate these challenges by offering tailored solutions that meet each business’s needs.
Choosing the right cloud service provider, whether on AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure, can be a complex task. At Novis, we have helped numerous organizations navigate this process, and in this article, we provide some key recommendations based on our experience.
Why is it important to choose the right provider?
Choosing a managed cloud service provider is not a decision to be taken lightly. Whether you’re looking for an AWS partner, a Google Cloud partner, or an Azure partner, the right choice can significantly impact the success of your migration and cloud operations.
A wrong strategic partner can lead to hidden costs, security issues, and a suboptimal user experience. By selecting a provider, you are trusting them to manage valuable and business-critical data. Moreover, you must sign contracts for periods of 12 months or more, which is a risk if the choice is incorrect.
- Define your needs: Before starting the search, clearly define your needs and requirements.
- Create a list of potential providers: Research and create a list of AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud partners that meet your criteria, considering their specific experience with critical cloud applications, such as SAP cloud or others. Using independent studies can be a good starting point (see here for results from ENTI, the Technology Studies Center at Universidad Católica (Ceti UC)).
- Request proposals: Ask each provider for detailed proposals and compare the offers.
- Conduct a proof of concept: If possible, conduct a proof of concept to assess the provider’s performance.
- Check references: Contact the provider’s current clients for feedback. Other companies’ experiences can provide valuable insights into aspects to include in the selection process, service quality, and the long-term relationship with the provider.
10 Key Considerations When Choosing a Cloud Service Provider
Evaluate the Provider’s Experience and Certifications
A reliable cloud service provider should have solid industry experience. Research their track record, how long they’ve been in the market, and their success stories with clients in your industry. At Novis, for example, we back our services with decades of experience providing technological solutions to companies in various sectors.
Additionally, consider certifications, which are indicators of capability and technical specialization. This ensures that the partner has processes that do not rely solely on individuals.
Clearly Define Service Requirements
It’s essential that companies define their specific needs, focusing on expected outcomes rather than processes. This allows the provider to propose optimized solutions that align with business objectives.
Management Based on SLAs and KPIs
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) should be clear and ensure levels of availability, performance, and response times that align with your business needs.
Flexibility and Adaptability
A good provider should offer flexibility to adapt to your business’s changing needs over time, including the ability to scale services and adjust to new technological and market challenges. The ability to adjust resources according to demand is crucial for cost and efficiency optimization.
Integration and Compatibility
Ensure that the cloud solutions offered are compatible with your existing systems and can be seamlessly integrated. A good provider should be able to offer customized solutions that fit your current infrastructure.
Cost Transparency
Cloud pricing models can be complex. Look for a provider that offers a clear and transparent cost structure without hidden charges. For example, understanding the cost of Google Cloud, Azure, or AWS in detail can help you predict and control your expenses easily.
Economic and Contractual Considerations
It is crucial to evaluate not only the direct cost of services but also the long-term cost structure, such as the possibility of converting Capex into Opex, which can offer tax advantages and greater financial predictability.
Technical Support and Customer Service
Efficient and accessible technical support can make a difference in critical moments. Evaluate the availability of support, guaranteed response times, and communication channels offered. The availability of 24/7 support and the presence of a multilingual team can be key differentiators. Technical support should be accessible and competent, with the ability to respond promptly to issues or queries.
Innovation and Constant Updates
The world of technology evolves rapidly. Your provider should be at the forefront, offering access to the latest technologies and best practices. Ask them about their development plans and how they keep their solutions up to date.
Migration and onboarding process
Transitioning to the cloud (or between clouds) can be complex. Evaluate the migration plan proposed by the provider and ensure they offer a comprehensive onboarding process to minimize disruptions to your business.
Conclusion
By considering these factors in your evaluation, you will be better positioned to select a cloud service provider that is a true strategic partner for your business. Remember, the right choice can drive innovation, improve operational efficiency, and provide a competitive edge in today’s market, whether you are considering cloud services for critical solutions on AWS, Azure, or GCP.
At Novis, we understand that every company is unique and requires solutions tailored to their specific needs. Our approach is based on a deep understanding of our clients’ challenges and the provision of cloud solutions that not only meet their current needs but also prepare them for the future.
We are experts in helping companies migrate to the cloud and optimize their operations. We have extensive experience in implementing customized cloud solutions and offer top-notch technical support.
We specialize in offering customized and efficient solutions to optimize cloud operation and management, thus ensuring the best cost-benefit ratio and quality for our clients.
If you are looking for a reliable partner for your digital transformation, we invite you to contact us.
Article by Gilda Valderrama, Editor of Novis Newsletter.
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