If you're working for a large enterprise, chances are you'll already be operating in a multi-cloud or hybrid cloud environment. At the very least, most of your operations will be resting in the cloud.

But you may find that your current provider – or one of your current providers – isn't cutting the mustard anymore. When you find yourself in this situation, you might find yourself looking for a cloud consultant to help you manage the move.

If you're an enterprise dealing with large amounts of data and a range of cloud solutions, you'll be all too aware that it's a complex setup.

The shift from legacy hardware to a cloud solution to multiple cloud solutions is one of increasing cost-effectiveness, scalability and security – but also increasing complexity. In this article, we break down why this is – and offer some best practices for cloud migration of any kind.

Why is cloud migration complex?

1. Resistance to change

Even if your company is committed to cloud-based operations, you may encounter hesitancy when another migration is on the horizon. Resistance to change is especially common when the system in question is complex.

If you map out your cloud computing architecture with pen and paper, is it easy for a non-specialist to understand? No? Then you may have some persuading to do – because very few people want things to get more rather than less complex.

This is why the business case is always key to any cloud migration. A consultant who only considers the technical aspects is leading you up the garden path and then pushing you into a hole marked "overspend".

Like all technologies, cloud solutions are there to serve your business requirements. A key challenge is to align your software and data needs with your business's vision, mission and plan.

2. Money talks

How is cloud migration like buying an expensive pair of boots? In both cases, you might find your eyes watering at the cost. But once you've committed to that initial outlay, you're guaranteed to save money in the long run.

Making your migration cost-effective is a challenge – but it's one that can be overcome through planning.

Thorough preparation means the bare minimum of disruption to your business. If you know exactly what your business requirements are, you're in a good position to deal with any issues that arise.

One way to do this is by drawing on the expertise of a cloud consultant. They can listen to your requirements and create a timetable for migration that works around your diary.

3. Skills gaps

Related to money is a lack of skilled staff. This might not apply to you – but if it does, you'll know only too well how it adds complexity to the migration process.

Everybody knows that cloud technology is highly specialised. It's a living, breathing example of the Law of Accelerating Returns – the way that the rate of change tends to increase exponentially.

Perhaps you have someone on board who's able to manage the migration. Great! Or perhaps you have the resources to train a member of staff. Again, great – there's no one way to skin a banana.

In many cases, though, it can be advisable to call on a cloud consultant. They have the necessary expertise in their back pocket – meaning you're less likely to encounter roadblocks on the way.

On top of this, a high-quality cloud consultant will do your planning for you. They will create a timeline for migration that reflects your priorities and deadlines. And they'll be able to manage the process according to best practices.

What are the best practices of cloud migration for large enterprises?

1. Plan

Planning is more complicated than simply writing "2 PM: Migrate" in your diary. It involves the evaluation of all the applications and data that are going to be moved.

To do this, you have to map out all your workloads and how they interact. Without this crucial – but complex – first step, you're on a hiding to nothing.

2. Migrate in batches

Cloud migration isn't much like catering – but they have one thing in common. If you're cooking for a hundred people, you'll get nowhere if you try to do it all at once.

Similarly, cloud migrations are most effective when done in waves. This is partly to minimise disruption and partly to ensure that all workloads have been optimised for the cloud in good time.

3. Act in line with business goals as well as technical requirements

Cloud services are a vehicle, not an end in themselves. The purpose of migration is to streamline operations and maximise efficiency.

Focusing solely on the technical side is like buying full mountaineering gear when you're heading out for a hill walk. You want a solution that serves your business objectives and reflects your apps, software and data.

4. Test and test again

At every stage of the migration process, you need to be testing, testing and testing some more.

This is often a stumbling block for large enterprises. A little learning is a dangerous thing – so if you try to carry out tests without the necessary experience or expertise, you may find yourself a victim of analysis paralysis.

5. Check you're compliant

Every industry under the sun is subject to compliance regulations – and they're liable to change overnight.

That means you need to be on top of current compliance and be 100% sure that your migration plans are in line with it. If you don't, you could face a penalty.

How can a cloud consultant help with cloud migration for large enterprises?

A reputable cloud consultant will have the experience and knowledge to make a plan that's both business-oriented and technically sound. They'll know how to test and what to learn from the process. And they'll be on top of compliance regulations.

All of this makes for a migration process that's both smooth and cost-effective. In the context of a large enterprise, these qualities are priceless.

Are you a large enterprise looking for cloud migration services? Here at Ascend, we've handled more than 400 successful migrations for businesses large and small. Get in touch today to talk to one of our experts.