Choosing a Cloud Service Provider

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing, in its most basic form, is the provision of computing services such as those involving servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence over the Internet (“the cloud”) in order to provide quicker innovation, more flexible resources, and economies of scale. To better manage expenses, increase efficiency in infrastructure management, and adapt to shifting business requirements, you normally only pay for the cloud services you really use.

What are Cloud Providers?

Cloud providers allow you the ability to design, manage, and deliver small as well as large-scale applications for the web and mobile platforms. When you sign up for virtual server hosting, the company will supply you with a variety of resources over the internet to facilitate streamlined software development. These resources may include big data analytics, internet of things, computation, and others.

Cloud resources often come with plug-and-play functionality, which enables users to make use of only the resources they require at the precise moment they require them.

Working with a cloud provider partner is often necessary to get a tailored experience and ensure that your needs are being met.

How to Choose a Cloud Service Provider

When choosing a cloud provider, you can get overwhelmed by the amount of information and the number of platforms. From AWS to Microsoft Azure and everyone in between, there is a lot to consider. Our goal with this article is to lay out what to look for when choosing a cloud provider in the simplest terms possible.

• Personal Needs

The first step in selecting the right cloud provider is understanding your unique needs. This involves evaluating your organization’s specific requirements and objectives. Are you looking for scalability, robust security, or cost efficiency? 

• Security

We believe the security of the platform you’re considering using should be your number one concern. If the provider you choose has a reputation for poor security, it’s not even worth considering. You should have a list of questions regarding security for your potential provider that pertains to your particular use cases and industry.

When it comes to security, you generally get what you pay for. So, while it may not be ideal for your budget to purchase a top-of-the-line service, consider the risk you take when going ‘cheap.’ Picking a cloud provider with a solid reputation can negate many issues, bringing me to my next point. 

• Credentials and Standards

If ensuring data safety is a top concern, you should seek vendors that have been approved by organizations such as ISO 27001 or the government-run Cyber Essentials Scheme.

Providers who adhere to industry best practices and standards have demonstrated compliance with recognized quality standards and frameworks. Even if the requirements themselves do not determine the service provider you choose, they can be very useful in narrowing down the pool of candidates for that role.

• Expertise

This goes hand-in-hand with the previous point, but before choosing a partner to lead your cloud journey, ensure they know how to meet your needs. Your organization may invite them to carry out a crucial project if they have the necessary knowledge and you have faith in them to make your idea a reality.

Many of these cloud services recognize progress with badges of honor. Verifying their previous successes should be an early priority. To determine if they are up to par with your requirements, you might request to see relevant credentials or ask them some questions. However, implementing a few checks and balances during the evaluation process can easily separate the rotten apples from the good ones.

• Data Management

Relating to security is data management. Depending on your organization’s needs and the policies in place regarding data residency, you may already have a data classification plan in place. You should at least be familiar with the regulations and data privacy laws that apply to sensitive personal information.

Evaluate encryption of data transfer to and within the cloud, if applicable, to ensure data safety at rest. Sensitive volumes should be encrypted at rest to prevent unauthorized administrators from accessing data. Keeping this in mind, local regulations to which your data is subject may play a significant role in your decision. Search for service providers who give you some say over where your data is stored, processed, and managed if you have jurisdiction-specific needs and obligations.

• Multi-Vendor Relationships

Having a partner who has relationships with multiple vendors will enable you to take advantage of a variety of cloud services. You do not need to be satisfied with the services provided by a single vendor because you can specify the option that best meets your unique requirements and then select it.

• Cost Efficiency

While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest solution, it’s critical to consider the long-term costs associated with a cloud provider. Sometimes, paying more upfront can save you from costly security breaches or data loss incidents in the future. Evaluate the total cost of ownership, including any hidden fees, to make an informed decision.

• Future Proofing

Lastly, consider the future growth and scalability of the cloud provider. Are they innovating and updating their services to keep up with technological advancements? A provider that is committed to continuous improvement and scalability will be better equipped to meet your growing needs.

Conclusion

Include both objective and subjective criteria in your evaluation of potential service providers. You should acknowledge and verify the certifications and standards they comply with and what their clients say about them in case studies and testimonials.

To avoid being locked in, you need to think long-term. Avoiding proprietary technology and having a well-defined exit strategy will save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

Invest some time and effort into drafting service level agreements (SLAs) and contractual conditions that are feasible since these will serve as the primary source of assurance that the terms of the agreement will provide the services.