The cloud computing revolution is well underway. Sixty per cent of global corporate data is stored in the cloud. And 81% of all organisations use or plan to adopt multi-cloud computing models – not just large enterprises.

The cloud is beyond big news. It's the norm.

This means that – more than ever – IT has to become a vital component of your business strategy. But while many CTOs understand the advantages of the cloud, many still wonder whether and how to implement a cloud strategy.

While there is no universally correct answer to the cloud conundrum, firms must start thinking about the cloud or risk falling behind the competition.

And the first question to ask is this: "am I cloud-ready?"

Why should you think about becoming cloud-ready?

Cloud computing is inherently scalable and flexible. And because hardware is managed off-site in data centres, moving to the cloud means giving your IT department more time to focus on what really matters.

But the benefits of the cloud go beyond simple time and resource gains. Cloud computing can help firms address many challenges and take advantage of many growth opportunities. Chances are, your organisation is facing one of these roadblocks or opportunities right now.

Here are seven indications that you might be ready to migrate to the cloud.

1. You need more storage capacity

One of the most common motivations for a company's first cloud migration is to increase storage space.

It's not hard to see why. Businesses in today's data-driven economy collect data at a dizzying rate – and efficiently storing all this data on-premises can be challenging.

Buying storage devices may be costly and deploying them in a data centre takes up valuable real estate. When a company's storage needs unexpectedly shift, it may end up with an abundance of unused space that eats away at its IT budget.

On the other side, a growing business may find that its storage needs render a high-priced gadget outdated the moment it arrives.

The cloud can help address these issues. After all, the storage and expansion opportunities provided by public cloud services are almost infinite.

2. You're struggling to support remote workers

There are lots of factors – including COVID-19 and environmental concerns – that have contributed to the fast expansion of remote labour. Companies using a conventional IT infrastructure may have a difficult time supporting their remote employees. If remote access is implemented improperly, it might lead to security risks and decreased output.

However, with an active internet connection, users can access cloud-based information whenever and wherever they like. This makes it easier to accommodate a mobile workforce by providing workers with 24/7/365 access to necessary business data and apps.

3. Your company is flourishing

To expand, companies often need a wide range of IT services and tools. Estimating the pace of expansion for on-premise computer and storage needs may be challenging. Over-provisioning is common as a means of avoiding shortages at the expense of a larger investment.

By enabling companies to quickly and easily acquire and adjust to their precise resource needs, the cloud puts an end to this issue. If growth persists, the cloud infrastructure may be expanded to accommodate it, but savings in both resources and money can be realised if the increased capacity turns out to be unnecessary.

4. Your team is growing

The corporate environment of today is characterised by its emphasis on remote teamwork and cooperation. The ability to collaborate effectively within geographically dispersed teams is crucial. Meeting and working in person reduces productivity and lengthens the time it takes to bring a product to market, which is a costly disadvantage for businesses.

Cloud computing's centralised and always-available resources are ideal for team projects. Whether your team members are down the hall or across the world, moving to the cloud can help you work together more effectively.

5. Your security concerns are rising

Strong IT security is essential for any business that values its data and reputation. And, frankly, this should apply to all businesses.

However, it's challenging for in-house security staff to keep up with the ever-changing strategies of cybercriminals.

Providers of cloud services have whole departments devoted to ensuring the safety of their clients' data and systems. While no solution is completely intrusion-proof, using a trusted provider means harnessing a cutting-edge, homogenised security infrastructure that's equipped for modern-day enterprise threat prevention.

6. You want access to cutting-edge technology

The cutting-edge technology offered by public cloud providers might be out of reach for a business that maintains a traditional, on-premise data centre. Advanced applications sometimes need supplementary infrastructure components that a company either lacks or does not have room for. Ignoring cutting-edge computer system developments might be detrimental to a business's capacity to stay competitive in the market.

By making the switch to the cloud, companies can access cutting-edge computing resources, improving their ability to address challenges and achieve goals. A data-driven company can get the most out of its data with the help of cutting-edge AI and machine-learning software.

7. You have a tight IT budget

The cloud provides businesses with a number of options for stretching their IT budget. By using a cloud service rather than buying equipment for a local server farm, you could instantly save cash.

Thanks to its scalability and adaptability, cloud computing allows businesses to pay for just the services they use. Memory and compute resources can be increased or decreased as needed by the company.

The true cost of the cloud can vary depending on a business's specific needs and use cases, but – generally speaking – increased flexibility translates into cost savings.

Are you ready to migrate to the cloud? Ascend Cloud Solutions has handled more than 400 successful migrations using a proven, five-step process that's tailored to your needs and goals. Speak to a cloud expert to get the ball rolling.