Cloud Solutions

The cloud refers to files, data, or software stored in servers that are accessible through the internet, rather than locally on the computer’s hard drive or in a company’s own data center. Cloud technology has been adopted by countless enterprises, and modern cloud solutions are designed to help businesses improve collaboration, enhance employee productivity, increase data security, and support redundancy. While many organizations offer an assortment of cloud-related solutions, CTG’s Cloud Solutions help organizations address common data migration challenges seamlessly, allowing businesses to keep their core processes and operations intact throughout their transition to the cloud.

There are three types of cloud computing services common in the business world. Each business is different, and each of the above cloud computing services addresses different business needs and clients with different levels of expertise.

• Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)
  Infrastructure is managed by a cloud service provider over the internet. This service splits the responsibilities of managing software between the cloud service provider and the client. The actual servers, network, data storage, and virtualization are all managed by the cloud provider, and the client remains responsible for managing the operating system, applications, data, runtime, and middleware. Examples include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
• Platforms-as-a-Service (PaaS)
  An application software-platform and hardware are both managed by the cloud service provider, and applications and data are managed by the client. PaaS greatly simplifies the provisioning and administration of software services such as databases. Some examples of PaaS include Amazon Aurora as a database server and Azure App Service for building web applications.
• Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
  Software is entirely managed by a cloud service provider. The client is still responsible for basic tasks, including software updates, but the operating system servers, storage, and all else is the responsibility of the cloud service provider. Examples include Dropbox, Google Workspace, and GoToMeeting.

In cloud computing, a central server facilitates operations by using software and middleware to connect the server to computers and other devices. Cloud solutions depend on the remote relationship between each device and the central server to enhance networking, processing, and storage capabilities. Determining which cloud solution is the best fit for a business or enterprise depends on the industry, suitability, and goals of a given company, and often improves employee productivity and security.

Cloud products include the various services which fall under the umbrella of cloud solutions. Cloud solutions come in all forms, including CRM solutions, project management, enterprise resource planning, and human resource management. Enterprises use cloud products to improve business processes, reduce costs, and strengthen business scalability.

Evaluating the type of cloud platform needed is integral to sustaining success after moving an enterprise to the cloud. CTG’s Cloud Migration Assessment gives enterprises great insight into where and how cloud-based services can help any business. Once eligibility is determined, the migration strategy is designed, built, and deployed to help enterprises best transition to the cloud. Businesses have three options to choose from:

• Public Cloud
  An off-site cloud infrastructure in which the cloud resources are managed by a third-party cloud service provider. Public cloud platforms are popular with enterprises because they offer low costs, scalability, and little to no maintenance.
• Private Cloud
  An on-site cloud infrastructure in which the business owns the hardware. Private clouds are the most customizable cloud computing platform, and may offer enhanced security and control than public cloud platforms.
• Hybrid Cloud
  A multi-cloud strategy combining a private cloud with a public cloud. Data and applications are able to move freely between either environment, which can improve app performance and reduce latency.