Managing the Migration Madness: The Case for Multicloud

It’s impossible to escape the data-hungry technologies shaking up the way we do business. While AI and ML have been on the agenda for years, the rise of GenAI and other compute-intensive technologies means that, for businesses, the data chickens have really come to roost in 2023.

For many, this means needing to embark on a migration journey aimed to create a robust infrastructure that is ready to manage next generation technologies while remaining compliant in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

Given the need for scalable capacity, cloud is a central piece of this puzzle, but this leaves businesses with the question of what will best set them up for success: hybrid, public, or multi?

However, figures show that many businesses have already made up their minds. According to a recent report, 87% of businesses already have some form of multi-cloud strategy in place. This indicates that, while hybrid and all-in on a single cloud supplier are still popular, many businesses are exploring the benefits of a multi-cloud future.

The problem is that this is no easy task, and those who set off on a multi-cloud journey will face several hurdles, from ‘sticky’ cloud vendors to compliance complexities.

So, is it worth it? We look at the benefits of multi-cloud adoption and how businesses can overcome the migration hurdles.

The case for multi-cloud According to 451 Research, cost saving opportunities are at the centre of 40% of organisations’ multi-cloud journeys, but the benefits of multi-cloud can be much broader than a money-saving exercise. By leveraging the strengths of different cloud providers, organisations can experience benefits such as improved flexibility, enhanced redundancy, reduced vendor lock-in, and better performance optimisation.

Each hyperscaler provides enhanced experience in different areas, including machine learning, scalability, and digitalisation. Multi-cloud gives businesses the freedom to mix and match the best-in-industry options for their workloads. By choosing a combination that works to support business objectives, organisations can make the most of their investments.

By taking the time to choose vendors that match the business needs, as well as considering how clouds will all interlock with each other, businesses can make the most of their infrastructure and lessen the challenges normally associated with migration. This includes considering the lack of standardisation between vendors meaning metrics, restrictions and availability will not always be the same.

Breaking the chains of vendor-lock in

While there are many benefits of going all-in with a single cloud vendor, those who look to migrate may experience some resistance when trying to move to a different vendor. Leading you to the ‘sticky’ experience of exiting contracts and shifting workloads. Vendor lock-in has been a concern for businesses for some time, and a multi-cloud approach gives businesses a greater degree of flexibility.

Before they begin the process, businesses would be wise to consider whether the move to multi-cloud is right for them. Beyond economic pressure, a move to multi-cloud must be underpinned by wider business priorities.

If it’s the right time, right place, for the business to change its infrastructure, then bringing in the right partners can be a migration game changer.

The process of migration is challenging, but there are steps businesses can take to ease the pain. By collaborating with specialist independent partners familiar with the large cloud providers and their ‘stickier’ points, businesses can strengthen their position when negotiating out.

These partners can also provide insights into how to get the most from each hyperscaler, including options for using more open and generic services, versus keeping specific applications confined to one provider.

Businesses being faced with the current economic pressures are making decisions based on efficiency and cost. However, any migration journey must be thoroughly considered to ensure it matches the organisation’s objectives and can support business goals, as it might not be the right move for all businesses. Those who approach this migration journey with the right partners, with a business-value driven strategy will be best placed to make the most of the technologies on offer.