Cloud Integration Services: Eight Criteria for Choosing a Provider

Many organizations are shifting their IT infrastructures to the cloud. To make an efficient move, some organizations may need to hire the services of a cloud integration service provider. You see, moving to the cloud can present companies with plenty of challenges. 

Cloud integration is the process of configuring apps, service-oriented architecture (SOA), and procedures to address and share data in the cloud. Improved functional connectivity is usually the goal. There are various ways to achieve cloud integration. This includes hybrid options that combine on-premises systems with cloud solutions to improve the management of information.  

There are several types of cloud integration: 

1. Cloud-to-cloud integration – It brings together individual cloud systems.
2. Cloud-to-on-premises integration – This integrates on-premises apps through the use of cloud services. 

Does your organization have multiple platforms? If yes, then it might force you to connect several disparate systems to achieve a cohesive and seamless IT system. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cloud Integration Provider

A cloud integration services provider can help your organization with a move to the cloud. But first, you must understand what your business needs. Know what your stakeholders, customers, and staff need. Also, look at your business goals and where you want your organization to be. 

Here are some of the areas you want to review when choosing a provider:

1. Visibility and Control

The provider should include monitoring capabilities that give you control and visibility into the flow of information. If your current software-as-a-service applications lack performance monitoring, then the provider should be able to offer it as well.

2. Security

You need to keep your information safe. Security is always a concern when operating in the cloud. Your cloud integration provider should be able to manage user access. This includes authorization and authentication.

They should also implement encryption and data storage that adhere to your data policies and regulations. The service provider should also provide a secure connection between the cloud and your on-premises enterprise software or app. Do not compromise your firewalls, however. They should also follow government data protection regulations, such as GDPR.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

The integration solution should support a variety of integration methods and types, including comprehensive integration capabilities. It should also allow you to grow, mold, and make changes to the services as your business grows.

4. Open Platform

The integration service should allow you to select and manage IT solutions that best suit your needs. It should be an open platform allowing you to migrate on or off the platform and integrate other apps and data seamlessly. Moreover, it should allow you to create customized, interactive user experiences. This should give you the leeway you need to engage with the ever-changing demands of your customers. The solution should also allow you to make changes to market shifts. This gives you a holistic view of your organization.

Conclusion

When moving to the cloud, you require some planning and cloud expertise. You want a seamless transition to avoid disrupting your business processes and maintain data integrity. Cloud integration services can allow you to start right away.

See how CloudBolt can help you manage your cloud.