Recent data indicates many businesses are confused about the cloud and its benefits, but why? Here's a closer look at three common cloud misconceptions, and how managed service providers can help customers fully leverage cloud solutions.

Dan Kobialka, Contributing writer

January 13, 2016

2 Min Read
3 Common Cloud Misconceptions, and How to Clear Them Up For Customers

Do businesses understand the cloud and its benefits? Recent data indicates confusion and doubt are prevalent among many cloud adoptees. 

A May 2015 survey of 300 IT managers completed by West IP Communications showed that many businesses are divided on the inherent benefits and risks associated with the cloud.

The survey results included:

  • While many IT managers realize the benefits of the cloud, they also fear a security breach could come back to haunt them.

  • 55 percent of respondents said they do not believe communication services providers offer sufficient security checks alongside their cloud telecommunications offerings.

  • 46 percent said they do not believe the return on investment (ROI) would be enough to justify a change to a cloud-based infrastructure.

Managed service providers (MSPs) that offer cloud solutions can clear up common cloud misconceptions for businesses. But how?

Here’s a closer look at three common cloud misconceptions, and how MSPs can clear them up for customers:

  1. Cloud computing requires an entirely new infrastructure or replacing an existing infrastructure. MSPmentor 501 honoree Logicalis pointed out hybrid cloud solutions offer the perfect mix of private and public offerings because they enable users to “provision compute resources in the public cloud with a single click—and then seamlessly move data over from [a] private cloud while still retaining control.”

  2. Cloud computing requires businesses to give up control of their sensitive data. Cloud security is a major concern for many businesses, but a transparent MSP can highlight how it protects customer data that is stored in the cloud and ensures this information is available to customers any time they need it. 

  3. All cloud partners are identical. Unfortunately, not all cloud partners are created equal. But an MSP that works with a business to understand its cloud needs can find the right solutions to fulfill this company’s requests. 

Be prepared to respond to customers’ cloud concerns, and ultimately, an MSP can ensure its customers get the cloud support they need. 

What are your thoughts on the cloud? Share your thoughts about this story in the Comments section below, via Twitter @dkobialka or email me at [email protected].

Read more about:

AgentsMSPsVARs/SIsMSP 501

About the Author(s)

Dan Kobialka

Dan Kobialka

Contributing writer, Penton Technology

Dan Kobialka is a contributing writer for MSPmentor and Talkin' Cloud. In the past, he has produced content for numerous print and online publications, including the Boston Business Journal, Boston Herald and Patch.com. Dan holds a M.A. in Print and Multimedia Journalism from Emerson College and a B.A. in English from Bridgewater State College (now Bridgewater State University). In his free time, Kobialka enjoys jogging, traveling, playing sports, touring breweries and watching football (Go Patriots!).  

See more from Dan Kobialka
Free Newsletters for the Channel
Register for Your Free Newsletter Now
Subscribe

You May Also Like

Galleries
See all
Sep 16 - Sep 19, 2024
Join us for MSP Summit, September 16-19, 2024 in Atlanta, GA. You don't want to miss the industry’s most innovative and inspiring gathering of business leaders focused on growing their managed services businesses. This year’s MSP Summit will help attendees stay ahead of exponentially increasing security threats, expanding their range of services through a merger or acquisition and embrace a wide range of innovative new technologies. Get notified when registration opens.
Sign Up For Special Deal