Have you decided to switch to cloud computing?
Congratulations!
There are quite a few reasons why many companies choose to do just that. These can be very reliable storages for your data and other services. At the same time, they’re usually flexible when it comes to payment, and save your time as you don’t need to develop and maintain internal infrastructure to keep your data.
If you’ve decided to join General Electric, eBay, Fitbit, and other companies that enjoy the perks of using cloud computing, you’re just one step away from making the switch.
The question is – which cloud hosting provider should you choose?
This article may help you make a decision.
1. Data Security
The first thing you want to ensure is data security. If you’re using a third-party company to collect, organize, structure, and store your data, you must have a DPA in place to protect you from potential legal issues in case of a data breach.
When choosing a cloud hosting provider, you should ensure that they strictly follow data security standards.
Pay special attention to where the server you pick is located. In case you have particular requirements regarding data storage or processing, server location may be a deal-breaker even if you’re happy with the rest of the conditions.
There are different laws in different parts of the world, so you should make sure you’re aware of any regulations that may apply to the place where the provider will process or store your data.
If encryption of your data is necessary, make sure the chosen cloud hosting provider can offer this service, especially if you handle sensitive data. The same goes for data backup and retention – make sure to discuss it with your potential cloud hosting provider.
If there are any changes on the server that affect your data, you should be informed about it timely. No changes should be made to your data without your approval.
Finally, although any cloud hosting provider should be absolutely transparent about how they operate, it’s still your responsibility to make sure all your requests are met before you sign a contract.
2. Reliable Performance
How can a cloud hosting provider guarantee reliable performance? It’s an important factor when choosing a suitable provider because too much downtime may hurt your business. However, be prepared that you’ll experience some regardless of how good the provider is – it’s necessary to maintain and update the server for it to function well.
The best way to ensure your potential hosting provider offers extraordinary service is to check their documentation and SLAs. If they’re not available publicly, you can ask for them. Any company that does business transparently will have no objections to showing them to you.
Check what happens in case there’s a service issue – ask about the company’s disaster recovery processes. You may never experience it, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.
Some cloud hosting providers also offer additional risk insurance. If you’re working with extra sensitive or important data, you may consider this option, too.
3. Software Integrations and Technologies
Take a look at your processes as a whole. What kind of tools do you use every day? You may be using different marketing automation tools, CRM programs, analytics, etc. Will your potential cloud hosting provider be able to manage your data from all these channels?
In most cases, you’ll benefit from choosing a provider that’s a part of a larger ecosystem so you can upgrade your current service with new ones as your business grows or your needs change.
Another thing to consider when it comes to integrations is how reliable the company’s partners are. You should be safe if they all have the necessary certifications and meet the standards you’ve set for your potential collaboration.
Your chosen cloud hosting provider should also have cloud architectures that match your requirements. Do they offer customization options? You may also need to do some re-coding before you start using their service. Determine if it’s worth it before you make your final decision.
4. Support
Other elements may seem more relevant, but what do you do when you encounter an unexpected issue? You reach out to customer support. And that doesn’t only refer to having customer support reps, but all administration support.
- SLA: Before signing a contract, make sure you consider their Service Level Agreement. Does it fit your needs? Don’t forget that you can negotiate them in case the basic service level doesn’t suit you completely. Make sure you ask for any necessary explanations if you don’t quite understand all the technical jargon that SLAs may contain.
- Accounting: Look for providers who have automated billing. It’s less likely that an unexpected error will happen and that you’ll suffer unpredicted costs. You should be able to monitor your spending and reach out to an accountant in case you need live support.
- Reporting: You’ll want a provider who can create performance reports for you. Your agreement can include monthly or quarterly reports, so you can monitor your data and performance more straightforwardly.
5. Business Health
Having to switch to another provider after a year would be an inconvenience for your business. That’s why business health isn’t something you should neglect when choosing a cloud hosting provider. Usually, you can’t go wrong with a company with no history of legal issues and a stable reputation.
The company you decide to trust with your data needs to be in a healthy position when it comes to finances, as well. Do they have enough capital to operate for years? Find out about the provider’s risk management policies.
If they have these in place, chances are they deserve your trust. Learning about the company’s partnerships can tell you a lot about who they are and what their level of expertise is.
And don’t forget that the provider you choose should also understand how your business works. Ensure they have the necessary tools and knowledge to meet your needs.
Take Your Time
Choosing a cloud service provider is a serious matter and you shouldn’t make such a decision in a hurry. Take your time to consider your options so that you can be sure you’ve made the right choice. Ask the provider any questions that may occur to you so you have all the relevant information and can compare different services and finally pick the best.
If you bear the criteria we’ve described in mind, we’re sure you’ll pick the right cloud hosting provider that’ll help you achieve your business goals.
