Database Development Decisions: Switching to Cloud Database Services

**Cloud Database** have become a necessity at most businesses. If you’re reading this article, you probably already know that [cloud services](https://www.imaginovation.net/blog/cloud-basics-gcp-azure-and-aws/) offer easy, reliable access to your database in a secure system. Public cloud storage and cloud collaboration transformed the way we do business.

Cloud applications offer businesses a wide variety of tools. A few years back, companies were wary of the cloud, worried that it would present a security risk that could compromise sensitive data. Most of those fears have been put to rest at this point, but security does continue to be a factor.

Reasons for Switching to Cloud Database Services

Though sticking with your current cloud service can be comfortable and easy, there are some compelling reasons to explore other options.

Here are four areas to investigate with regard to your cloud services that just might convince you that you’re with the wrong cloud service.

Cost

• If you’ve been with your cloud service for 2-5 years, the chances are that the market has changed. There might be competitors out there who can offer you a better deal. Of course, you’re going to have to consider the features and stability that you’re getting – bargain basement is rarely the best choice, but large and stable cloud service providers offer a great deal of support and options.
• Cloud pricing varies dramatically depending on how much you purchase and whether you pay upfront. The savings can be significant. It’s worth evaluating your resources to decide if you’ll be better served to switch.

Flexibility

• There are so many options when it comes to cloud computing. If you’ve got a growing business, it’s wise to look at the flexibility that your cloud database services offers. Often businesses find that they have to work around rigid structures within cloud service providers. Are you wasting resources because your current cloud provider has requirements that are holding you back?

Security

• Depending on what you’re using your cloud services for, the level of security that you require can vary. Taking a critical look at encryption level and firewalls can make the difference in your decision to switch to a different model. Many cloud services offer SSL certificates and assessment services as part of their security packages. These are considerations that might well be beneficial to the information that you’re trusting them with.

Features

• This is the biggest area that warrants the most conscientious consideration. Businesses can easily outgrow the services that their cloud services offer. Cloud service companies are consistently rolling out new opportunities for businesses to take advantage of, from streaming services to AI to mobile app development services.
• There are a plethora of cloud services that will allow you to bring everything under one roof – from email to product management and more. That umbrella can make life a lot easier, because you no longer have to juggle different management options from varied companies. Switching cloud computing services might well be the best decision you’ve made for bringing in new opportunities and avenues of development to your business.
• Take a hard look and compare the features of various cloud services before you decide to stick with what you’ve got or to jump ship to a new service. At the same time, be open to what new features might do for your business.

Challenges when switching cloud services

If you’re already entrenched in a cloud service provider, you’re going to find that switching to a different provider brings some challenges. Before you embark on a new cloud service, be certain that you know what it’s going to take for your business to get moved over. Depending on how much you’ve got going in business cloud services, you might have a great deal of work and resources ahead of you to make the switch. That doesn’t mean it’s not worthwhile, just that you should be aware of what you’re getting into.

Providers don’t make it easy

• Though your new cloud service provider is certainly going to make it as easy as possible to move in, the old cloud service provider is not going to make it so easy for you to move out. That’s because cloud services are built to last.

New cloud service means new training

• You’re going to have to change the way you do things as you move to a different provider. That’s rather the point, but it still takes adjustment and training for your employees. Expect a learning curve as everyone learns the ropes of the new system. It’s no walk in the park to change over, particularly because people tend to get set in their ways. It’s human nature.

Multiple platforms are a factor

• It’s important to consider how different platforms are handled by different cloud services providers. Compatibility matters, especially if you’ve got a workforce that doesn’t use the same platform. Don’t be caught off guard by compatibility issues -be ready before you move.

Pulling back makes it easier

• A major way to avoid headache is to pull back from your current platform leading up to the switch. The more reliant you are on your current platform, the more challenging the switch will be.

Consider the amount of data you’re moving

• You might want an interim hard storage device between cloud services. This could be as simple as flash drives or as complex as external hard drives. An interim storage solution can give you peace of mind and allow you to have a smoother transition.

The bottom line on switching to cloud database services

With so many companies moving to a virtual workforce, cloud computing continues to open up opportunities for increased productivity and by extension increased profits. Choosing the right cloud service is no easy task, but it’s well worth looking into whether the clouds are fluffier on the other side. Having an experienced database development firm on your side can be helpful should you decide to move into the cloud or simply switch cloud services.