- Cloud computing adoption will continue rising
Even before the pandemic, there was a surging adoption of cloud computing. However, it was pretty gradual. Between 20% and 30% of work was being done through the cloud. Then, companies had plans to adopt cloud step-by-step, and the percentage would have been around 80% in about ten years. After the emergence of coronavirus, things went faster than anticipated as companies quickly learned that the only way they can survive is by taking most of their operations online. This would allow staff to work from home, cut the cost of operations, and enhance efficiency. The 80% target might be reached in just three years.
- Data security is still a challenge.
Although the world has come of age in things to do with the cloud, security is still a major concern that every CEO must know. Many organizations are now putting their sensitive data into the cloud, making it a target for attacks by hackers. With these issues, the best solution would be to adopt a hybrid model that allows organizations to keep their private data off the cloud while maintaining control over sensitive personal information. Organizations need to ensure that the cloud services they use are secure and must be attentive to detail. While securing data is a great move, it is not enough. Organizations need to protect applications that use data and servers.
Most CEOs still have concerns over cloud computing and what it can or cannot do for their organization. According to HBR, only 37% of the organization believes that the cloud has helped them achieve what they need. On the other hand, three in ten reported that they have confidence in total migration to the cloud because it delivers value.
- Understand the skills of the workforce
Workforce and expertise is a critical aspect in the cloud adoption. Before making any move towards such a project, ask yourself as a CEO if you have the right skills needed to take advantage of the cloud. Lack of adequate skills to steer the cloud initiatives is one thing keeping CEOs worried. This issue is a barrier to success, and HBR notes that three in every ten CEOs are concerned about the inadequacy of skilled people in their organizations. The only way out of this is to tap into the skilled personnel available in the market if you are to build a competitive cloud environment to handle your business needs.
Without a doubt, cloud computing is the new and timely revolution that CEOs must follow or risk being left behind. While this new technology has the potential to help your business thrive, you must be prepared so that you do not adopt it for the sake but with full knowledge of how your business will benefit. Find out what cloud will assist you in and become involved in the entire journey if you are to attain the success you need.