Cloud integration is an essential element for a smart data management strategy. It offers flexibility, scalability, efficiency, and an impressive ROI. Learn how to synchronize your business’ process, data, and applications with these tips.
What is cloud integration?
Cloud integration refers to bringing multiple cloud-based systems, applications, and processes together into a single cloud-based platform. Cloud integration provides administrators full access to data across the enterprise and helps facilitate the management of information, applications, cloud-based services, and on-premises software.
What are a database, data warehouse, and data center?
Databases, data warehouses, and data centers are different types of data storage systems that serve vastly different functions.
Databases store specific records for one part of your business. By managing a single set of data, databases offer the ability to store a large volume of information while allowing quick and easy queries for specific records.
Data warehouses integrate multiple data sources and databases under one system. Data warehouses enable you to sort and view different types of corporate information in a wide range of different ways. With a holistic view of your business’ data, you can consolidate, analyze, and report on a multitude of data sets.
Data centers are also commonly referred to as server farms. Data centers are a physical facility used to house a group of computer servers and components, including routers, firewalls, switches, and other network infrastructure devices.
Pulling it all together: data (e.g., unit of sale) goes into a database (e.g., unit sales volume), which feeds into a cloud data warehouse used to inform all aspects of the business. The servers and hardware running all of this are secure at the data center.
How do I get started with cloud integration?
The first step in getting started with cloud integration is to examine your existing applications and systems to evaluate whether they are a fit for cloud computing. Next, we recommend working with a trusted IT strategy provider to test cloud applications in a development environment to ensure that the new systems work for your business needs, goals, and objectives. Your IT strategy partner will also be an essential resource for you to plan and execute a smooth migration.
What is cloud to cloud application integration?
Cloud to cloud application integration, also known as cloud to cloud integration (C2I), refers to the ability for organizations to connect different cloud computing application platforms—improving functional connectivity across the enterprise.
Can I integrate cloud and on-premise data centers?
Yes, integrating public clouds with on-premise data centers is referred to as a Hybrid IT infrastructure. This emerging trend in data management poses several challenges across both on-premise and cloud apps and is more complicated than running an all cloud system. However, with smart strategy and the right applications, these new complexities can be successfully overcome.
What is the cloud to cloud integration process?
There is a range of different approaches to the cloud to cloud integration process. Gartner, a leading IT research and advisory company, outlines five of the most common methods for midsize and large organizations. View the article here.
The best option for your corporation will depend mainly on a combination of your business needs and the IT systems and process currently in place. As Gartner puts it:
“The key to success is to find the approach that maximizes the value delivered by each integration rather than trying to maximize the value of your investments in integration tools.”
To fully understand what a cloud data warehouse provider is, you may first need to understand the
What is the cloud to on-premise integration process?
The cloud to on-premise integration process is fundamentally the same as cloud to cloud integration. First, evaluate what’s currently in place. In the case of legacy on-premise applications, this is an excellent time to assess whether or not there is an opportunity to optimize costs and increase efficiency by retiring legacy systems and replacing them with cloud applications. Then, working closely with your IT strategy provider, budget plenty of time to test and optimize your new cloud to on-premise integration process.
The business upsides of having a data warehouse infrastructure are often countered by the downsides of h
How does security get integrated in cloud computing?
Cloud service providers will typically use secure encryption at the server level. However, there are additional steps you can take to add extra security to your cloud computing. The easiest is to implement best practices in password management company-wide. Routinely audit authorized access for employees and block unauthorized access with two-step authentication. You can also add encryption and firewalls on your side to protect against malware and other types of network attacks.
What is a cloud integration framework?
A cloud integration framework is a proven model for how cloud software applications interact and communicate over a network. Frameworks are essential for defining communication protocols when building a cloud to cloud or hybrid IT infrastructure.
Where are the top cloud integration tools?
There are several categories of cloud integrations tools, including:
- Big Data Integration
- Cloud Migration
- E-Commerce Data Integration
- Enterprise Service Bus (ESB) Software
- Cloud software provider G2 offers a comprehensive list of the top cloud integration tools for 2020, here.
Do I need a cloud integration service or specialist?
If you are moving to the cloud, you may benefit from a cloud integration service or specialist. A trusted cloud consultant will help evaluate your existing systems and applications and provide insights for an optimal transition to the cloud. Cloud integration services and specialists will also be able to test and optimize your cloud system, advise on security and encryption, and assist in training your system administrators and employees.
Do I need a cloud integration service or specialist near me?
Working with a trusted cloud integration service or specialist in your area has many benefits. While many cloud service providers offer phone, text, and video support, having a cloud integration consultant on-site will expedite a smooth transition to the cloud. At NextPhase.ai, we recommend working in person with our clients. However, when that’s not possible, we have an established virtual workflow, offering clear communication and a proven step-by-step process for efficient cloud integration.