Cloud or on-premises? It doesn’t have to be either/or
As businesses become increasingly digital, many CIOs are faced with a crucial choice: Should we go all-in on cloud or keep some of our infrastructure on-premises? According to Mikkel Riis, the answer is rarely black and white:
“Many organizations find that a pure cloud strategy is not possible – either due to compliance, existing investments or business considerations. Hybrid cloud makes it possible to get the flexibility of the cloud while maintaining control over critical systems.”
This balance between flexibility and control is crucial, especially in industries with strict regulations, such as finance and healthcare.
How CIOs can navigate the hybrid cloud landscape
To succeed with a hybrid cloud strategy, Mikkel Riis points to three important factors:
- Business-driven technology – Technology should support business goals, not the other way around. This requires a clear strategy and an understanding of where cloud provides real value.
- Compliance and security – Many companies underestimate the regulatory requirements that come with a hybrid architecture. Getting a handle on data management is crucial.
- Optimising costs – Hybrid cloud can be an expensive solution if not managed correctly. It’s all about leveraging the scalability of the cloud without losing track of costs.
From strategy to practice
A successful hybrid cloud implementation requires more than just technology. It also requires change management and a clear roadmap. According to Mikkel Riis, it’s about:
- Identify business-critical systems and decide where best to place them;
- Ensure integration between on-premises and cloud environments for a seamless experience;
- Continuously evaluate and adjust the strategy to keep up with business development.
Want to know more?
Listen to the full conversation with Mikkel Riis on this page or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
