Planning Guidelines – Cloud Computing

Key Benefits

• Redundancy – A cloud database can be set up for instant backup of your main database, or can include a primary and a backup copy at a separate cloud location for improved redundancy. Both the primary and backup can be updated and maintained in the cloud without straining your data circuits.
• Disaster Recovery – In the event of a data service/circuit failure, or a power outage or other disasters at your primary location, your database can be accessed remotely from other locations. Users can work remotely for persona access as permitted by the IT department.
• Reduced CapEx – if your database equipment is due to be replaced or upgraded because of system capacity constraints or aging equipment, a cloud solution allows you to negotiate an upgraded improved database solution for a contracted monthly fee rather than incurring CapEx for new equipment.
• Free up your IT staff for more important issues than database maintenance.

Key Considerations – Planning Steps

1. What are your key objectives (see benefits above)?
2. Are you looking to the Cloud for a redundant, secure backup or for the primary database? If primary, do you want the backup also in the Cloud or on premise?
3. Are you looking for the lowest possible cost or the most robust flexible solution?
4. What capacity do you require, now and for the next 3 years projected?
5. What bandwidth do you need for access and updates?
   Moving to the cloud may require an upgrade in your data access services. If possible, updates or backups should be scheduled for off peak hours.
6. Check your data access plans to ensure that you have sufficient capacity to manage the database in the cloud, including the needs of remote users.
7. Prepare an RFQ to get quotes from several different providers. The RFQ should have the providers describe their own data backup and security procedures included with your quote.
8. Check what particular security requirements need to be to conform to your corporate or IT policies. Note: One benefit of cloud computing is that the security requirements can be outsourced to the provider.
9. For the providers on the shortlist for your RFQ, make sure to obtain client references.

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