Statistics show that a surprising 89% of businesses have shifted to cloud platforms to manage their storage and workloads. A cloud service provider (CSP) is a company that offers a range of cloud-based solutions and services for businesses and individuals. Cloud service providers allow organizations to access computing power, storage, software applications, and other related services without exclusively relying on on-site infrastructure. However, choosing exactly which provider works best for your company can be a daunting task. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing a cloud service provider.
1 – Only Considering Cost
An affordable cloud service provider could be exactly what a small to medium-sized business (SMB) is looking for while operating with a limited budget. While the overall cost is a crucial factor in your decision-making, there are other considerations that should be made when choosing a provider. As with most things in life, if something seems too good to be true, it likely is. A cheap cloud service provider might skimp on essential aspects of their platform, such as reliability, performance, and support, leading to a less-than-stellar experience. Make sure to discuss all aspects of a cloud service provider’s offering, in addition to the cost, when deciding which solution works best for your business. By taking a holistic approach and considering the broader spectrum of services, aside from cost alone, businesses can ensure that their chosen cloud solution aligns seamlessly with their operational requirements.
2 – Not Doing Your Homework
One benefit (or drawback, depending on your perspective) to our digital world is constant access to others’ experiences. You can also query industry peers or talk with existing clients to gather more information about the provider’s reputation. Reading reviews, conducting interviews, or even viewing Glassdoor submissions on the CSP in question should all be a part of your company’s process of vetting a cloud service provider. Look for a provider that offers a wide array of services and solutions, covering endpoint protection, secure cloud storage, data encryption, and more. There are also specific certifications that a provider might possess, like SOC compliance, which provides a regular, independent attestation of the controls that a company has implemented to mitigate information-related risk. Each business is unique, with specific needs. Seek a provider that can tailor its offerings and experiences to fit your requirements.
3 – Ignoring Geographical Location
A good CSP offers low latency and high-speed performance as part of their product. However, it should be noted that geographical distance can have an impact on performance, and thus your overall experience. Some businesses may simply be unaware of the impact that geography has on load times. Failure to consider this aspect can lead you to the wrong choice, resulting in slower response times that reduce productivity, and increase frustration. By factoring in this consideration, organizations can make informed decisions when selecting a CSP, ensuring that the chosen provider aligns seamlessly with their operational needs and geographical constraints.
4 – Underestimating Compliance
When a company complies with the law and quality standards, customers are more likely to trust its brand and services. For businesses operating in regulated industries, compliance with industry-specific standards is non-negotiable. Ensure that your chosen provider possesses the necessary knowledge of the regulatory landscape in order to match your specific business requirements. By complying with federal and provincial regulations, companies can protect themselves from legal action and demonstrate that they’ve been operating according to the law.
Contact SWK Today
Choosing the right cloud service provider is a strategic decision that can profoundly affect your business’s daily operations. By carefully considering these common mistakes and conducting thorough research, you can ensure that your choice aligns with your specific needs. For more information on cloud service providers, contact SWK today to talk with our team of industry experts.