Cloud migration and modernisation

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Cloud migration and cloud modernisation are essential strategies for New Zealand-based businesses embracing digital transformation. Cloud migration focuses on the migration process of moving systems, applications, and data from on-premises infrastructure to a cloud environment. This process can be cost-effective and quick, enabling organisations to reduce reliance on physical infrastructure while enhancing scalability and accessibility. On the other hand, cloud modernisation involves updating legacy systems to fully utilise cloud-native architectures, improving performance, security, and adaptability to meet evolving business needs.

Choosing between these approaches depends on a company’s specific goals, resources, and timeline. A cloud migration strategy is often ideal for businesses seeking rapid transitions to the cloud to achieve cost savings and operational efficiency. Meanwhile, a modernisation strategy suits organisations aiming for long-term innovation, optimised application performance, and enhanced compliance.

Canon Business Services specialises in providing cloud modernisation services and tailored support for the cloud journey, ensuring successful, secure, and scalable transformations.

Security and scalability are at the core of Canon’s approach. Modernisation services focus on optimising applications for the cloud, integrating advanced features such as microservices architecture and serverless computing. These upgrades not only improve performance but also strengthen security and compliance frameworks, making systems more resilient to evolving threats and regulations.

What is cloud migration?

Cloud migration refers to the process of moving digital assets, such as applications, data, and workloads, from on-premises infrastructure to a cloud environment. This migration process offers businesses significant benefits, including cost savings through the elimination of physical infrastructure, improved scalability to handle fluctuating demands, and streamlined operations. By leveraging cloud infrastructure, organisations can enhance accessibility and collaboration across teams. Adopting a well-planned cloud migration strategy is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and maximising the advantages of cloud services.

Types of cloud migration

The migration process involves multiple approaches, each tailored to meet specific business needs and goals. Rehosting, often referred to as "lift and shift," involves moving systems to the cloud with minimal changes, offering a quick solution but without fully utilising cloud-native architecture. Re-platforming modifies certain application components to better leverage cloud infrastructure, providing enhanced performance without extensive redevelopment. Refactoring goes further by rewriting applications to align with cloud-native features, such as microservices architecture, enabling improved scalability, efficiency, and adaptability. Each migration process offers unique advantages depending on the complexity and objectives of the cloud strategy.

Key benefits of cloud migration

Cloud migration offers several key benefits that drive operational efficiency and flexibility for businesses. Cost savings are achieved by reducing dependency on physical infrastructure, significantly lowering maintenance and operational expenses. By shifting to cloud infrastructure, organisations eliminate costly on-premises systems while benefiting from predictable pricing models. Scalability is another critical advantage, as cloud services automatically adjust resources to meet fluctuating demands, enabling seamless growth and adaptability. Additionally, improved accessibility ensures employees can access applications, data, and workloads from any location, fostering enhanced collaboration, remote work capabilities, and streamlined operations. These benefits position businesses for sustained efficiency and innovation.

What is cloud modernisation?

Cloud modernisation involves updating legacy systems to align with cloud-native architectures. This modernisation strategy optimises application performance, security, and adaptability, preparing businesses for future innovations.

Levels of modernisation

Rehosting: Transferring applications to the cloud without altering their core architecture.
Re-platforming: Introducing minor changes to utilise cloud-based services effectively.
Refactoring: Redeveloping applications for a cloud-native architecture, enabling maximum efficiency and adaptability.

Key benefits of cloud modernisation

Enhanced performance: Modernised systems operate more efficiently within cloud environments, reducing downtime and latency.
Improved security: Cloud-native applications benefit from advanced security features, ensuring data protection.
Adaptability for innovation: Modernisation positions businesses to embrace emerging technologies like AI and machine learning.

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When to choose cloud migration

Cloud migration is the optimal choice for businesses aiming for a swift transition to the cloud to address immediate operational needs. This approach is particularly beneficial for organisations looking to cut costs by reducing reliance on on-premises infrastructure and minimising maintenance expenses. Additionally, cloud migration enhances resource accessibility, allowing employees to securely access applications and data from any location. For businesses prioritising agility, cost savings, and operational efficiency, cloud migration provides a practical and effective solution.

When to choose cloud modernisation

Cloud modernisation is best suited for organisations aiming to optimise legacy systems to meet modern business demands. This approach enhances application performance by leveraging cloud-native features, improves security with advanced protective measures, and increases adaptability to support innovation. By modernising their infrastructure, businesses can future-proof their operations, enabling seamless integration of emerging technologies like AI and machine learning. Modernisation ensures long-term efficiency and positions organisations for sustained growth and competitive advantage.

Benefits of cloud migration and modernisation for businesses

Benefits of cloud migration

Cost savings: Eliminating on-prem infrastructure reduces operational costs.
Increased agility: Businesses can quickly adapt to market demands with scalable cloud services.
Global accessibility: Employees can work seamlessly from anywhere, boosting productivity.

Benefits of cloud modernisation

Future-proofing legacy systems: Modernised applications are easier to maintain and adapt to changing needs.
Enhanced security and compliance: Cloud-native applications benefit from cutting-edge security measures.
Improved performance and efficiency: Faster, more reliable systems enhance the user experience and drive innovation.

Key considerations for deciding between cloud migration and modernisation

Business goals: Align your cloud strategy with your organisation's priorities, such as cost reduction or innovation.
Budget and resources: Migration offers short-term savings, while modernisation requires higher initial investment for long-term gains.
Compliance and security: Both strategies enhance security, but modernisation provides advanced features for sensitive data.
Timeframe: Migration is faster; modernisation delivers deeper, more sustainable benefits over time.

Trends in cloud migration and modernisation

Cloud migration and modernisation are evolving rapidly, with emerging trends shaping the way organisations leverage cloud environments. One significant trend is the integration of AI and machine learning, which is transforming modernised cloud solutions. Businesses are adopting these technologies for predictive analytics, enabling smarter decision-making, and automation to streamline workflows. This integration not only improves operational efficiency but also allows organisations to unlock valuable insights from their data, driving innovation and competitive advantage.

Another growing trend is the adoption of hybrid and multi-cloud strategies, where businesses utilise a mix of public, private, and on-premises cloud environments to optimise performance and ensure redundancy. Additionally, the rise of serverless and microservices architecture is revolutionising cloud solutions by offering cost-effective, scalable, and flexible alternatives to traditional monolithic application designs. These approaches allow businesses to build applications that adapt seamlessly to fluctuating demands while reducing operational complexities and overall costs.

How canon business services supports cloud migration and modernisation

Canon Business Services guides businesses through every stage of their cloud journey. From developing a cloud migration strategy to implementing a robust modernisation approach, Canon ensures seamless transitions and optimal results. With a focus on compliance, security, and scalability, Canon provides tailored cloud services to meet unique organisational needs.

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Frequently asked questions

What is modernisation in cloud computing?

Modernisation in cloud computing involves updating legacy systems to utilise cloud-native architectures, improving performance, security, and adaptability.

What are the 4R’s of cloud migration?

The 4 R’s of cloud migration are rehosting, re-platforming, refactoring, and replacing. These strategies define the migration process depending on business goals and resources.

What is Azure migration and modernisation program?

The Azure Migration and Modernisation Program helps organisations transition to Microsoft Azure by providing tools, resources, and guidance for effective cloud migration and modernisation.

What is an example of application modernisation?

An example of application modernisation is refactoring a monolithic application into a microservices architecture, allowing it to fully utilise cloud infrastructure and scale efficiently.