Why Partner with an Integrator for Cloud Migrations?
62% of Customers choose to partner with a cloud migrations consultant or integrator when migrating mission critical applications to the cloud.
It seems ironic that independent solutions providers & integrators are proliferating in the era of “as-a-service” cloud solutions. If the as-a-service provider is doing the provisioning, delivering the solution and supporting the customer directly, what role does the independent integrator provide? Cloud solutions providers, just like telecom carriers and technology hardware vendors (Cisco and others), partner with independent solutions integrators for many reasons: Expand sales reach, move into new markets, deepen customer relationships, etc. But what’s in it for the customer?
Independent solutions providers (integrators) can add the sort of services that enable successful cloud migrations. Before delving into the reasons behind that statement, It’s important to point out that many, if not all, of the services provided by cloud specialists are free, when the solution is sourced through that company. This is a win for everyone involved.
One of the first services we offer customers interested in a cloud migration, is the Audit. Our audit is both technical and financial. From a technical standpoint, we document the current solution and architecture, and understand the business objectives behind the decision to move to the cloud, what other applications and tie-ins, and the overall needs of the business. On the financial side, we evaluate all areas in the tech spend that can offer opportunities for savings that can potentially offset the cost of the migration, from connectivity, to overall solution architecture.
Solution selection seems easy, but with the proliferation of service providers, the choices can be overwhelming. This is where some inside information us useful. We vet providers continually and advise customers as to which are executing well, innovating, and which are strongest in the areas most important to the customer.
When it’s time to execute, we advise the negotiation process. With 20 years’ experience negotiating contracts on behalf of customers, we’re in a good position to secure industry competitive rates and favorable terms.
Relationships are important when trouble surfaces. We believe it’s vital to maintain relationships with solutions vendors that are based on honesty and trust. We’re in the trenches with the customer and provider whenever there’s trouble, which is when relationships are tested and forged. For this reason, we sponsor customer relationships with provider executives.
After the solution is implemented, our customers receive direct support from the cloud provider. In the case that an outside factors are affecting the solution, or if response times are not satisfactory, we are here to diagnose and escalate on the customer’s behalf. And if the solution needs to be fine-tuned, we’re available.