Enterprise Cloud Migration

Re-Platforming

Replatforming is the second option, enhancing the "lift and shift" strategy to better fit the cloud environment. This process involves optimizing the application during migration, requiring some programming expertise. For instance, you might transition from your own database system to a managed database hosted by a cloud provider. While maintaining similar underlying technology, this approach modifies the business model and leverages the cloud's resilience as a significant advantage.

Repurchasing

Known as "rip and replace," this cloud migration strategy involves completely replacing an existing product. This could entail terminating current licenses or adapting services for new platforms and offerings. For example, applications that are "ripped" might include legacy CRM systems or industry-specific apps that were not originally designed for cloud deployment. This approach is chosen when applications have outdated code or are not easily transferable between providers. When transitioning to a new product or utilizing a proprietary platform, the "repurpose" strategy is employed.

Refactoring

Refactoring, the fourth R in cloud migration, involves redesigning applications or services to enhance their functionality or performance. This approach is driven by a desire to improve application efficiency, address scalability challenges, or ensure better availability and reliability in anticipation of increased traffic demands.

The timing of refactoring is crucial. Although it may be feasible to restructure the application architecture during migration, it is generally advisable to prioritize refactoring later in the project lifecycle, especially if the application is critical to business operations. It's important to note that refactoring requires time and expertise to implement effectively.

Retiring

Our final strategy is service retirement, focusing on identifying assets for removal to streamline operations and prioritize high-value, frequently used services. This approach offers a strategic perspective on managing your application portfolio, turning potential changes into opportunities for optimization and efficiency gains.

Retaining

The fifth strategy is retention, where certain applications deemed too complex to migrate are kept in their current state. Many successful enterprises adopt a hybrid approach for this purpose. Reasons for retaining on-premises deployments may include regulatory compliance, specific operational rules governing business applications, services, or data, or strategic preferences based on localized requirements.