In this guide we consider the qualities to look for in a managed cloud services provider, and questions to ask before engaging them to handle cloud-based operations.
A managed cloud services provider acts as a partner in the maintenance and improvement of cloud-based environments. Important tasks are handled by experienced engineers via ad hoc emergency support or ongoing management of parts of the estate.
Benefits of working in this way can be huge, especially for organisations that have recently moved to the cloud or those undergoing largescale migration.
Managed cloud services engineers know exactly what’s needed to maximise uptime, compliance, security and cost control. They make it easier to work effectively in the cloud, as well as avoiding potential problems and quickly rectifying emerging issues.
Engaging a managed cloud services provider will:
A good managed cloud services company will feel more like a partner than a provider. They’ll collaborate with your in-house team, and you’ll most likely have a single point of contact as well as a dedicated squad.
Because they are well-versed in modern, digital-native principles, managed cloud services engineers react quickly to emerging issues. They work proactively to drive continuous improvement. And they share new learnings and insights that could benefit your organisation.
This is a world away from traditional managed services providers that were renowned for operating at arm’s length and taking a long time to respond to requests.
Offloading the burden of cloud management and maintenance is an attractive prospect. However, you need to be sure that the managed cloud services provider you’re working with will deliver.
Expect to see recent testimonials and case studies
Look for evidence of industry-accreditations and certifications
Find out how they collaborate, for instance, will they join your sprint planning and retros?
Closed Loop Medicine needed cast-iron security and reliability for an AWS cloud-hosted application involved in a remote clinical trial during the Covid-19 pandemic. As operations partner, DevOpsGroup set up advanced monitoring to instantly trigger remedial action if performance problems arose.
Read Closed Loop Medicine's storyAsk direct questions about the provider’s experience, standards, day to day practices and costs to ensure your expectations are aligned with what the service will deliver.
A managed cloud services provider should feel like part of the team, caring for your cloud environment as if it were their own. They should feel energised and inspired by the rapidly evolving world of cloud computing. If your provider of choice ticks these two boxes as well as offering practical skills, knowledge and experience, you’re on to a winner.
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What’s managed cloud services and how can it help my organisation? Read this guide to discover what’s involved, how it works and the benefits it brings.