We have already discussed the specifics of moving from local document storage to a cloud-based solution. These essentials, however, do not apply to a more specific situation that involves cloud to cloud migration.
The process of cloud to cloud migration (C2C) entails moving documents and software from one cloud-based platform to another.
Such migration is required whenever a company comes across a more affordable solution or cloud-based document storage that’s more in line with the needs of the specific organization.
If you’re considering a C2C switch, there are a couple of preparatory steps to engage in. Let’s examine some of the biggest essentials for the successful completion of the process.
Understand the Common Challenges
A successful cloud to cloud migration will involve several phases, depending on your work processes and the types of data or solutions you intend to move.
To prepare for a successful migration, you’ll need to have some idea about the challenges that may eventually be experienced.
Obviously, the first and the biggest essential to think of is the downtime linked to the migration. Some internal applications may go down and data may be inaccessible while the migration is taking place. Having some back up for such instances will enable you to manage the regular workload without having to handle serious pauses.
Workload migration issues and migration timing are also to be accounted for. Transferring documents to a new cloud is one thing. Having to deal with apps and workflows is something completely different that your staff may be unprepared for. Hence, the right timing will be of vital importance to minimize disruptions as much as possible.
Determine Exactly What You’re Going to Move
Whether you’re making the switch to new cloud-based document management and storage or you’re migrating apps and other solutions, you’ll have to determine what goes and what stays.
The complexity of a C2C migration will depend on the amount of data you need to relocate.
It’s generally a good idea to move documents and applications that you intend to use in the long run. Anything that you are uncertain of or that’s approaching the end of its retention schedule should be excluded from the move and stored locally.
You may think that moving everything is the easiest way to go but this isn’t the case. Spend at least a few weeks prior to the cloud to cloud migration occurring to examine your database and network. Chances are that you can purge a lot to simplify the process.
Determine if a Tool Can Be Used for the Cloud to Cloud Migration
Focusing on the specifics of the migration itself, check the availability of tools for the management and the easier execution of the move. The market features dozens such solutions and some are better suited to your needs than others.
If you’re working with professionals on your data digitization and management, they could have some solid recommendations for your migration.
They will also help you determine if the use of data migration tools is actually a necessity. Very often, the complexity of archives and databases isn’t high enough to invest in the acquisition of such a solution (that will probably be utilized a couple of times at best).
In case you already have such a tool due to the fact that you’ve done a cloud migration in the past, make sure you’re utilizing the latest version for a smooth completion of the task.
Check the Available Documentation
The new cloud solution or database you’ve chosen should provide sufficient documentation to cover all aspects of the move.
Make sure that the platform you have chosen has a manual and a guide/wizard for a C2C migration.
These documents aim to outline all steps, the sequences you have to follow and the potential difficulties you may have to troubleshoot.
Getting in touch with the customer support team is another good idea, especially if you don’t have enough qualified tech staff as a part of the team. Very often, customer service professionals will provide help and assistance during the migration to speed it up as much as possible.
Acquaint Staff Members with the New Cloud Environment
This final step is as important as all other parts of the migration.
Cloud environments can vary significantly from each other. If you’ve been reliant on one platform for a certain period of time, there will be a learning curve and a certain amount of time needed for employees to get comfortable with the new solution.
Getting introduced to the new cloud environment needs to commence before the actual C2C migration. Often, there are demo versions and tutorials you can count on to introduce staff members to the changes and develop the right work protocols.
Don’t underestimate the importance of these steps and if needed, come up with additional rules to follow. A comprehensive strategy will make your move much easier, faster and much more cost-efficient than originally anticipated.