Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) firms are in a unique position in the world of business. They merge artistic creativity with technical proficiency, and their projects touch millions of lives. As such, the IT needs for these firms are unlike any other. Enter IronOrbit GPU-accelerated INFINITY Workspaces – a platform that directly addresses and resolves these specialized requirements.
1. What are IronOrbit INFINITY Workspaces?
IronOrbit INFINITY Workspaces, for those unfamiliar, is a turn-key Managed Desktop as a service (DaaS) solution designed to facilitate seamless collaboration, ensure data security, and enable scalable IT infrastructure. At its core, it offers a platform that centralizes the myriad of software applications, data sources, and collaboration tools that AEC professionals rely on.
2. Scalable Infrastructure
AEC projects can range from small home renovations to grand-scale infrastructures like airports. Accordingly, IT demand can surge or decline rapidly. IronOrbit offers scalability that ensures firms only pay for the resources they use, allowing them to expand or contract based on project needs. This flexibility is essential to keep costs in check while ensuring that the IT infrastructure can handle the demands of large-scale projects.
3. Seamless Collaboration
Collaboration is a cornerstone for AEC projects. Various professionals – architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, and more – need to share their insights and expertise. With INFINITY Workspaces, real-time collaboration is facilitated, whether team members are in the same office or spread across the globe. The shared workspace offers a cohesive environment where 3D models, blueprints, and documents can be viewed and edited collectively, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
4. Data Security and Compliance
Protecting sensitive data is of paramount importance. INFINITY Workspaces provides state-of-the-art encryption and security protocols, ensuring that project data, client information, and proprietary designs remain confidential. Furthermore, for AEC firms that operate internationally, the platform assures compliance with various regional data protection regulations, alleviating potential legal concerns.
5. Streamlined Software Integration
AEC professionals use various graphic-intensive applications, from Revit and AutoCAD software to project management applications. INFINITY Workspaces enable integration of these tools, ensuring that users don’t have to hop between different platforms to get their work done. This integration increases efficiency, reduces the potential for errors, and ensures a more cohesive workflow.
6. Remote Accessibility
Modern AEC firms often operate in a decentralized manner. Whether it’s architects who need to visit sites, engineers who are on the move, or consultants from different regions, remote access to the workspace is crucial. IronOrbit ensures that the digital environment is centralized and accessible from any device, anywhere, at any time. This ensures continuity of work, regardless of physical location.
7. IT Maintenance and Support
One of the most significant challenges faced by AEC firms, especially smaller ones, is the need for regular IT maintenance and support. IronOrbit provides 24/7 support, ensuring that any technical issues are swiftly addressed. We partner with your IT teams to manage your infrastructure and day-to-day operations allowing you to focus on the big picture.
8. Environmental Sustainability
In an era where sustainability is more than just a buzzword, AEC firms are often at the forefront of sustainable design and construction. IronOrbit echoes this sentiment by offering a cloud-based solution. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with maintaining in-house servers and hardware. By choosing Infinity Workspaces, AEC firms can further their commitment to environmental responsibility.
Conclusion:
The AEC industry is in a constant state of evolution, driven by technology, sustainability, and shifting client needs. To stay competitive and effective, firms must ensure their IT solutions are top-notch. IronOrbit INFINITY Workspaces address the unique challenges faced by the AEC sector, offering a solution that is flexible, secure, collaborative, and sustainable. In an industry that builds the future, it’s only fitting that their digital tools are equally futuristic.
Call us now to schedule a free consultation. 714-777-3222
Over a decade ago, companies recognized the tremendous potential cloud computing had to revolutionize IT operations. It was in 2010 when Gartner reported cloud computing as one of the most crucial technology focus areas. Again, more recently, a 2023 Gartner report found that the best time to develop a cloud strategy would have been years ago. The second-best time is now.
Yet many business leaders still wonder how critical moving their IT environment to the cloud is for the future of their company.
One of the main drivers behind the decision to move to the cloud is to benefit from having a modern infrastructure. While digital transformation is a long journey, moving your IT environment is an essential first step. Cloud computing can also be insured against the unexpected.
Lacking IT agility because of lengthy equipment and software installation processes keeps business operations cumbersome when business speed and fluidity are necessary. Products and services have to be delivered quickly and at a minimal cost.
Cloud computing offers real business value by providing immediate access to computational resources. And these resources can be tailored to fit a variety of specific needs.
5 Aspects of Cloud Computing Cloud computing has five characteristics distinguishing it from on-premises servers:
1. On-Demand Self-Service
Allows business units to get computing resources without going through IT for equipment.
2. Broad Network Access
Build, deploy, and access applications that align with using multiple devices and mobility.
3. Resource Pooling
Pull together computer resources to fit a range of use cases and serve multiple consumers simultaneously.
4. Rapid Elasticity
With no downtime or impact on Capital Expenses, cloud environments allow for quick scalability up or down.
5. Flexible Pricing
Align your IT expenses with your business success—no hidden fees or charges based on usage, unlike other cloud providers. Instead, enjoy a predictable monthly fee.
One of the most significant and obvious benefits of having your IT environment on the cloud is its agility, which is no small benefit. Let’s look at real-world examples and highlight the key characteristics of cloud computing and its ability to empower organizations to respond swiftly to disruptive challenges and seize new business opportunities.
MOLAA
Like other non-profit organizations, the Museum of Latin American Art requires business continuity to serve its community. When the COVID-19 pandemic started in March 2020, the executive team at MOLAA immediately started looking at ways for its staff to work and collaborate from home. They needed to move its servers, files, and working documents into a virtual cloud environment where everyone on the team could access them.
Workforce communication isn’t the only area improved by IronOrbit’s cloud services. It substantially enhances data protection on multiple levels. Data stored on the cloud is encrypted, making it safer than other hosting solutions. Furthermore, IronOrbit utilized next-generation antivirus and AI-enabled endpoint detection and response (EDR) coupled with around-the-clock monitoring by security teams. This robust cybersecurity framework gave Macro Z Technology peace of mind and catapulted them ahead of competing contractors.
MacroZ Technology
Macro Z Technology, a leading software solutions provider, recognized the necessity of getting ahead of NIST compliance requirements. To ensure their systems remained secure and compliant, they made a strategic move to migrate their entire IT infrastructure to the cloud with the help of IronOrbit. This decision allowed them to surpass NIST compliance and provided a significant competitive advantage through fortified cybersecurity measures. By adopting IronOrbit’s cloud-based infrastructure, Macro Z Technology witnessed remarkable improvements in its cybersecurity posture, safeguarding its intellectual property, customer data, and critical assets through advanced security measures like encryption protocols and round-the-clock monitoring. The success of Macro Z Technology exemplifies the transformative power of embracing cloud computing for a resilient cybersecurity framework, ultimately driving business success in an era where threats loom, and opportunities arise rapidly.
The ever-increasing pace of business and data security needs an IT environment to keep pace. Traditional IT approaches won’t be able to do it. Having your entire IT on-premises will work for a short time. But eventually, you’ll realize how much conventional on-premises IT hobbles your business growth and resiliency sooner or later.
Embracing the cloud empowers businesses to break free from limitations, fostering rapid innovation, enhanced collaboration, and seamless remote work for long-term success in the digital world.
Its advanced security measures, robust encryption, and constant monitoring ensure the safety of critical assets against evolving cyber threats.
Tap into the Power of Cloud Computing
If you’d like more information about how your company can benefit from moving its IT infrastructure to the cloud, don’t hesitate to contact one of our consultants now.
Business leaders are making cloud migration a top priority. They realize there are many benefits to having at least part of the IT infrastructure on the cloud. Those who have already adopted cloud technology are busy working to bring the investments in technology to maturity so they can reap maximum benefits.
As we move into the middle of 2023, the advancements in cloud technology continue to transform the way we live, work, and interact with each other. Companies constantly innovate and improve their offerings with the growing demand for more efficient and secure cloud solutions.
Businesses are rethinking their computing approach and expanding beyond the traditional models of everything from security to how they route and access data. Even during this economic and market uncertainty period, business leaders realize they can’t afford to neglect technology to fortify their positions against disruptions or unforeseen events. They’re under immense pressure to drive business growth while, at the same time, doing more with less. Doing more with less is one of the great promises of digital transformation. Cloud technologies can enable companies to do more with less by providing access to powerful computing resources and services on demand. The excellent news for companies is that they can tap into a growing portfolio of capabilities without investing in and maintaining expensive hardware and infrastructure.
The global cloud computing market predictions call for a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 16.3% through 2026.
In a recent Gartner presentation [Watch Video], distinguished VP Analyst David Groombridge mentions how Cloud computing is nothing new. Still, increasingly businesses want to move the cloud conversation away from technology and focus more on business value by seeking cloud platforms specific to their industry vertical. An industry cloud platform provides services spanning software, medium, and infrastructure-as-a-service. Industry cloud platforms deliver composable modules of the industry-specific capability to deliver against defined vertical use cases.
Business technologists can rapidly use composable components to create differentiated value offerings in their verticals. These things increase innovation and agility and reduce time to market. Our earlier blog about digital transformation looked at how reconfiguring LEGO components to solve problems is like using digital technologies to build new solutions and systems. The design of LEGOs is modular. The individual pieces can be added, removed, and rearranged to create new structures. Similarly, digital technologies are modular. You integrate or replace various software components and services as needed.
An Industrial Metaverse
The Industrial Metaverse project, a collaboration between Siemens and NVIDIA, is a prime example of using digital tech to create something new. The Industrial Metaverse creates a virtual replica of the physical world, using advanced technologies such as AI, 5G, and high-performance computing. This virtual replica allows manufacturers to simulate and optimize entire factories and supply chains, from product design to production and logistics. Similar to building with LEGOs, the Industrial Metaverse project uses digital building blocks to create a virtual world. Innovators explore and optimize this virtual world to pave the way for more efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes. Clients can collaborate on significant engineering projects involving IoT, Digital Twins, and real-time analytics.
Technology Can’t Do it Alone.
Delivering technology alone will not be enough. We must plan for the impact of that technology on our brand, our customers, and society as a whole. And that requires sustainable technology. Some organizations define sustainability as that which is good for the environment. Others consider sustainability is about taking care of the people inside the organization and outside. Still, others believe safeguarding the core of the business is the critical definition behind sustainability.
The resounding message at the Gartner IT Symposium was that sustainable technology offers a two-for-one win delivering both societal and financial benefits. Sustainable technology is ultimately about reducing material and energy use in IT services. To enable enterprise sustainability outcomes through technology such as emission management software and traceability, delivering digital solutions allowing clients to reach their sustainability objectives.
In a recent article in the Harvard Business Reviewby Aamer Baig, Jan Shelly Brown, William Forrest, Vinayak HV, Klemens Hjartar, and Lareina Yee, McKinsey’s technology practice leaders have offered some new year’s tech resolutions for executives in 2023. The leaders suggest that combinatorial trends will become essential to consider. Instead of betting on individual trends, they advise thinking about how different technologies can create new possibilities when used together. They call these technologies combinatorial trends. The article gives examples of these trends, such as electric cars and blood type-based treatments powered by applied AI, machine learning, cloud and edge computing, and immersive reality technologies. When used together, the impact of these technologies is not just additive but multiplicative.
The leaders expect some combinatorial approaches to start scaling in 2023, such as applying the process that led to mRNA vaccines to other diseases. The article also suggests that companies must prepare for tipping-point technologies such as 5G, AI, and cloud, which are hitting mass adoption. Boards need to prioritize the budget for upgrading IT foundations that enable speed, security, resiliency, and reusability, which require investments in automation, data foundations, cleaning up tech debt, and continually renewing the IT architecture. The article also highlights that tech leaders must master the art of doing more with less and free up engineers from admin, bureaucratic, and manual work to focus on development.
Older Technologies That Are Still New
Two technologies are trending in 2023 that have been around for a while. They have only recently started to gain traction and become widely adopted due to technological advancements, changing business needs, and the increasing demand for faster, more efficient, and cost-effective computing solutions.
Edge Computing
Edge computing dates back to the 1990s when the first content delivery network would make some content, like images and video clips, closer to the end users via geographically closer data collecting nodes. Technological advancements such as 5G networks, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have made edge computing more practical and accessible. Edge computing is gaining momentum in 2023. The technology involves processing data closer to where it is generated instead of transmitting it to a central data center or cloud for processing. By bringing computation and storage closer to the point of data generation, edge computing offers several benefits, including reduced latency, improved data security, and real-time decision-making capabilities.
Businesses can leverage edge computing in a variety of applications. In the manufacturing industry, for example, edge computing can collect data from sensors on the factory floor and analyze it in real-time, optimizing production processes and improving product quality. Similarly, in the retail sector, edge computing can power smart shelves that monitor inventory levels and track customer behavior, providing valuable insights that can help retailers improve sales and customer satisfaction. In the healthcare industry, edge computing can collect and analyze data from medical devices and wearables, allowing healthcare providers to monitor patient health in real time and provide more personalized care. Using edge computing can help organizations become more efficient, reduce costs, and provide better customer service.
The trend toward edge computing will revolutionize how businesses operate in the cloud. By leveraging the power of edge computing, organizations can benefit from improved performance, enhanced security, and real-time decision-making capabilities. As more businesses adopt edge computing in 2023 and beyond, it will become increasingly important for companies to keep up with the latest trends and innovations in cloud technology.
Serverless architecture
A cloud computing model that allows developers to build and run applications without server management is called a Serverless Architecture. Although this technology has been around for years, this type of architecture is gaining popularity because of its numerous benefits for businesses, including reduced costs, increased scalability, improved agility, and faster time to market. Kubeless and Fission are open-source computer programs allowing you to run small code without worrying about the underlying infrastructure. They work with a tool called Kubernetes which makes it easy to manage large groups of computers.
Google App Engine, introduced in 2008, was the first tool that could let you write code without worrying about the computers it ran on. With App Engine, you could write code that runs when someone visits a website, and you could store data that your code uses. There were limits on how long the code could run and how long it could take to get data from the storage system. One of the key business benefits of serverless architecture is cost reduction. With serverless computing, businesses only pay for the exact amount of computing resources they use instead of maintaining and paying for a fixed server infrastructure, eliminating costly hardware investments, maintenance, and upgrades, resulting in significant cost savings over time.
Serverless architecture also offers increased scalability, as the infrastructure automatically scales up or down based on the workload, ensuring optimal performance at all times. Auto-scaling is significant for businesses that experience fluctuations in traffic and demand, as it eliminates the need to over-provision resources and allows the application to handle sudden spikes in traffic without downtime or performance issues. Another advantage of serverless architecture is improved agility. Developers can quickly deploy and update applications, no longer having to manage the underlying infrastructure. Being freed from existing infrastructure reduces the time and effort required to launch new features or make changes, allowing businesses to respond faster to changing market conditions and customer needs.
Finally, the serverless architecture enables faster time to market. Developers can focus on building and improving the application instead of worrying about the underlying infrastructure. Not having to worry about having the infrastructure to support development reduces the time and resources required to bring a product to market, allowing businesses to innovate and iterate quickly in response to customer feedback.
Companies Should Focus on Building Strong Cloud Foundations
The technology side of digital transformation is fundamentally changing how businesses approach cybersecurity, and moving to the cloud is an essential building block in this process. Companies need to focus on building strong cloud foundations to fully leverage the benefits of the cloud, such as scaling applications and automatically adding capacity to meet surges in demand. This foundation involves developing application patterns suitable for multiple use cases and implementing robust cloud economics capabilities, or FinOps.
FinOps capabilities enable companies to monitor and track cloud spending, determine the unit economics for different cloud usage scenarios, and optimize cloud offerings and pricing arrangements to meet the business’ consumption needs. However, many companies tend not to focus on cloud costs until they reach the $100 million mark (McKinsey Research), which is a waste and a missed opportunity to generate value.
The potential power you’ll gain through moving to the cloud will drive business innovation in the years ahead. By embracing the cloud as an initial core component of their digital transformation strategy, companies can achieve significant cost savings and operational efficiencies while enhancing their cybersecurity posture. But more importantly, having a solid cloud foundation is vital to unlocking access to new and emerging tech.
IN CONCLUSION
The technology trends emerging his year are awe-inspiring. The implications of how impactful they’ll be on shaping our work and our life are compelling. The biggest challenge to business leaders is what to make of these technological advancements and how they will create new possibilities when combined with the right strategy.
Every business is different. There are different needs and different goals. Maybe your main objective is to save costs. Perhaps it is to widen the profit margin or be ready to pivot the business model immediately. Insofar as technology priorities go, the usual suspects for IT leaders are optimization, increased scalability, and support for any pioneering efforts. And it all has to be achieved through responsible investments in technology. Be ready to invest in technology with an eye toward the company’s future development, not just addressing immediate challenges.
The Cloud, AI, and 5G are major C-change technological shifts because they are becoming prevalent. A McKinsey study shows that companies will have 60 percent of their environment in the cloud by 2025. Another survey reports that half the companies have adopted AI in at least one business area. CIOs and CTOs must prioritize spending to upgrade IT foundations for speed, security, and resiliency. Budgets may become tighter over the last few years. Organizations can no longer afford to have IT priorities shaped by individual business units. Tech spending will benefit from a more holistic approach involving top leadership.
Migrating your organization’s Microsoft 365 environment can be a daunting task. Proper preparation and understanding make the process smoother. Whether moving from an on-premises environment to the cloud or from one cloud provider to another, consider your current situation, where you want to go, and how you want to get there.
Here are some key things to remember when migrating your Microsoft 365:
Plan Your Migration Strategy
Before you start the migration process, you must have a clear strategy. Your plan will include the following:
a timeline
a list of tasks and milestones
a schedule for testing
validating the migration
Your strategy should also consider potential risks like downtime, data loss, or compatibility issues. Working with a trusted provider with experience in Microsoft 365 migrations is essential to minimize these risks.
Understand Your Current Environment
Before starting the migration process, you must clearly understand your current environment. Understanding means the Microsoft 365 applications you’re using and any third-party integrations or customizations.
You should also identify any data that may need to be migrated, such as emails, documents, and contacts. This determination will help you determine the best migration approach and identify potential challenges.
Choose the Right Migration Approach
There are several approaches to migrating your Microsoft 365 environment, each with benefits and drawbacks. The most common strategies include the following:
Cutover migration: This involves migrating all your data and users at once. This approach works best for smaller organizations with basic IT environments.
Staged migration involves migrating your data and users in stages. Ideal for larger organizations with more complex IT environments.
Hybrid migration: This involves running your on-premises and cloud environments in parallel. It is a good choice for organizations that want to maintain control over their IT environment.
Base your migration approach on your organization’s specific needs and goals.
Validate Your Migration
Before you go live with your migrated Microsoft 365 environment, check that everything works as expected. This evaluation includes testing your applications, integrations, and customizations, as well as ensuring that your data has been successfully migrated. You should also have the plan to address any issues that may arise during the validation process.
In Conclusion
Choosing the right provider for your Microsoft 365 migration will weigh heavily on the smoothness of the experience and the quality of the result. Finding the right provider is crucial. This decision will impact the smoothness of the experience and the quality of the result. We at IronOrbit offer experienced and comprehensive support for Microsoft 365 migration, ensuring you receive the guidance you need throughout the process and beyond.
When selecting a provider for your migration, there are factors to consider, such as pricing, service level agreements, and customer support. At IronOrbit, we understand the importance of these factors and strive to offer competitive pricing, top-notch service level agreements, and unparalleled customer support.
Don’t let the complexity of Microsoft 365 migration overwhelm you. With proper planning and support, you can ensure a seamless transition to the cloud. Choose the right migration approach, understand your current environment, validate your migration, and most importantly, choose the right provider – IronOrbit.
Contact us today to get started on your migration journey!
You read about how cloud computing revolutionizes businesses’ operations everywhere you look. As overused as the expression might be, it happens to be true. Moving to the cloud does revolutionize how you do things. It also opens your business to more and more possibilities as your cloud strategy matures.
A January 6, 2023 Harvard Business Review (HBR)article, points out that:“Last year, many CEOs changed their outlook on cloud computing, essentially going from I’ll do it because that’ what my CIO recommends’ to ‘I want to be all in.’ Companies should focus on building out strong cloud foundations that allow them to take advantage of the most important benefits that cloud provides.”
That’s why Gartner predicts public cloud spending to reach $600 billion this year.
But is a public cloud environment the best way to go for your company?
What is cloud computing? It’s important to remember that not all cloud computing is created equal. In this article, we will explore the different types of cloud computing environments and their benefits to help businesses determine which one best suits their needs, but first, let’s review.
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing delivers computing services, including servers, storage, databases, software, and other resources over the internet. Instead of owning and maintaining physical hardware and software, users can access these resources remotely through a network of servers.
One of the most significant advantages of the cloud is that it allows small businesses to leverage the latest computing technology at a much lower cost. Cloud computing enables users to access services on-demand, scale up or down as needed, and pay only for what they use without costly hardware and maintenance. Cloud computing has become an increasingly popular technology among businesses of all sizes thanks to its flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. However, not all cloud computing is created equal. There are different types of cloud environments. Exploring the different types of cloud computing and their benefits will help you determine which one is best suited to your business needs.
On-Demand Computing
The cloud is a collection of web-connected servers and software that can be accessed and used over the internet. This means that you don’t need to host or manage your own hardware and software. Furthermore, you can access these systems from anywhere with internet access. Cloud computing is all around us, from checking our Gmail inbox to watching our favorite shows on Netflix. The emails, video files, and other information we access are located on a server somewhere in the world. Still, we can access them quickly, easily, and inexpensively thanks to modern cloud computing technology.
Public, Private, and Hybrid Cloud
The type of cloud you should deploy for your business depends on several factors, such as the purpose of your cloud environment, regulations governing data storage and transmission, and other considerations. There are three primary deployment models for the cloud: public, private, and hybrid. All three models provide users with any time, anywhere access to files and applications that drive their businesses, but they do so in different ways.
Public Cloud
The public cloud is a service offered by third-party providers that use shared infrastructure to provide services such as storage, applications, and computing power. Public clouds are the most cost-effective and flexible option for businesses that require scalable solutions, as they are charged on a pay-per-use basis. Additionally, public clouds offer ease of use, as there is no need for maintenance or upkeep of the infrastructure, and updates are automatically applied.
Private Cloud
A private cloud is an infrastructure owned and operated by a single company or organization. Private clouds provide more control and security over data, as they are not shared with other users. Private clouds are often used by businesses that require a higher level of protection, such as financial institutions or government agencies.
Hybrid Cloud
Hybrid clouds allow businesses to store sensitive data in a private cloud while taking advantage of the cost-effectiveness and scalability of public clouds for less-sensitive data. A hybrid cloud combines elements of both public and private clouds, allowing businesses to take advantage of both benefits. This model is ideal for companies that require scalability and flexibility but also need to maintain high security and control over their data.
Which type of Cloud is Best for Your Company?
Now that we’ve explored different cloud infrastructures and their unique features, it’s crucial to determine which type of cloud is the best fit for your business. Each business has special needs and considerations, such as budget, security, compliance requirements, and resource constraints.
Take time to evaluate your business needs and choose the type of cloud infrastructure that best aligns with your mid and long-term goals and objectives. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, selecting the correct type of cloud can save you many headaches and sleepless nights. The right cloud helps you streamline your operations, boost efficiency, and stay competitive in an ever-changing business landscape.
Small to Mid-Sized Businesses (SME)
A public cloud is typically the most suitable cloud computing environment for small to mid-sized businesses. Huge third-party cloud service providers operate public clouds and offer services to multiple organizations or individuals over the internet. It resembles an apartment building owner renting out rooms to individual tenants.
Public clouds are cost-effective, as they operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, with no upfront costs or long-term commitments. They are also scalable, meaning businesses can quickly expand their computing resources as their needs grow.
Public clouds also offer a range of services, including infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS), allowing businesses to choose. For example, with these three different types of service, a PaaS solution provides a platform for developers to build, test, and deploy applications without having to worry about underlying infrastructure.
Whereas IaaS provides users with virtualized computing resources such as virtual desktop, storage, and networking, allowing them to build and manage their software applications and systems.
SaaS delivers ready-to-use software apps over the internet. Users don’t have to install and maintain their apps. They just log on and begin working.
Limitations of Public Cloud Computing for Small to Mid-Sized Businesses
Public cloud providers usually have a wide range of security measures to protect against cyber-attacks, which is critical for businesses that must keep their data and systems secure.
Overall, a public cloud can be attractive for small to mid-sized businesses. At least at first glance. But once you look under the hood, there may be a few things to give you pause. For one thing, there is little room for you to control your environment. There is little wiggle room for customizing any aspect of the infrastructure to meet specific needs.
For another, if you expect a speedy resolution to problems, you’ll probably be disappointed. Support and troubleshooting problems can become disruptive if they take a long time to resolve. When submitting trouble tickets to public cloud providers, the response time and support quality vary widely, making it difficult to predict how quickly they can help you resolve issues.
A third and final consideration has to do with compliance. SMEs must often comply with strict regulatory standards, particularly if they work with government contracts. Meeting HIPAA or NIST requirements can be challenging in a public cloud environment.
Large & Enterprise Level Companies
The most suitable cloud computing environment for large and enterprise-level companies is typically a private or hybrid cloud. Single organizations operate private clouds. These cloud service providers host on-premises or in a data center owned and operated by a third-party provider. In the case of IronOrbit, we own and control our data centers.
Private clouds offer greater control over computing resources, allowing organizations to customize their environment to meet their needs. Private cloud providers also can provide better cybersecurity and privacy layers, keeping data within the organization’s system. Hybrid clouds combine public and private cloud environments, allowing organizations to take advantage of the best of both worlds. For example, a private cloud can keep more sensitive data. The public cloud can be the place to store less sensitive data. Hybrid clouds provide the flexibility to scale up or down as needed and offer cost savings by utilizing public cloud resources for non-sensitive data.
Large and enterprise-level companies typically have complex computing needs that require significant resources and high levels of customization. Private and hybrid clouds offer the flexibility, control, and security to meet these needs. However, it is essential to note that private and hybrid clouds require significant infrastructure, expertise, and maintenance investments. Organizations must also have robust security measures to protect against cyber attacks.
Overall, private and hybrid clouds are the most suitable cloud computing environments for large and enterprise-level companies requiring high-level customization, control, and security.
No matter what type of cloud infrastructure a business chooses, moving to the cloud presents an opportunity to reimagine how they do business and the value they bring to their customers. Cloud technology enables firms to be more agile, flexible, and responsive to changing market demands. By leveraging the scalability and flexibility of the cloud, businesses can streamline their operations, improve their customer service, and gain a competitive advantage.
With the cloud, businesses can access new technologies and tools that were once out of reach, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics. This can help businesses better understand their customers, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions. Ultimately, the cloud helps business leaders change their perspective. Some may even have a paradigm shift that dramatically impacts long-term vision and direction.
In a March 10, 2021 article for the Harvard Business Review, Bhaskar Ghosh and Karthik Narain present two clear examples of how moving to the cloud began a paradigm shift in business strategy.
They wrote that Japan’s largest pharmaceutical company, Takeda uses “edge” technologyto help hemophiliacs monitor their enzymes at home. Edge
computing complements cloud computing by enabling data processing and analysis closer to the data source, dramatically reducing latency. This level of real-time mission-critical application would not be possible without cloud technology.
The article also introduces us to ENGIE, a French energy company that uses cloud technology to transform itself into a renewable and low-carbon energy provider across 70 countries. By creating a single, unified view of each customer using a PaaS tool, ENGIE can make customer insights accessible across all 24 business units. Here’s a case where a cloud computing platform enables ENGIE to quickly deliver tailor-made solutions for customers, such as its partnership with the University of Iowa to help the school become coal-free by 2025.
“Cloud is too important to a business’s fundamental competitiveness to be treated as an IT program. It’s about creating a platform for the efficiency, innovation, and growth that will determine the future success of your business.” Bhaskar Ghosh and Karthik Narain,
What CEOs Need to Know About the Cloud in 2021
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of cloud and their benefits can help you determine which cloud deployment model is best suited for your business. Whether you choose public, private, or hybrid cloud, cloud computing can help your business reduce IT headaches, boost productivity, and enhance security, all while leveraging the latest computing technology at a lower cost because you’re not having to re-outfit your IT infrastructure.
But the bottom line is cloud computing, not matter which type of environment you start with, will make all the difference in the sustainability of your company. Companies should develop cloud-first strategies and look towards building cloud economic capabilities, called FinOps. The longer companies delay, the more opportunity they waste to generate value. As the HBR article mentions, “FinOps capabilities can monitor and track spend, determine the unit economics for various cloud usage scenarios, and translate the business’ consumption needs into optimal cloud offerings and pricing arrangements.”
Moving to the cloud is a gateway opportunity for businesses to continually build on technology and nurture the possibilities of creating new digital value propositions for their customers. Beyond the surface-level benefits of increases in scalability and agility, cloud computing provides free-flowing access to new technologies, tools, and resources that help companies innovate and differentiate themselves in their respective markets, which is essential for staying ahead and driving growth. In this way, cloud migration is a foundational step to digital transformation.
Digital Transformation
Uses digital technology to fundamentally change how a business operates and delivers new value propositions to its customers. Digital transformation involves the integration of digital technologies into all areas of a business. The changes can be so significant that they are no less than a revolutionary to the business model.
A recent Gartner study indicates 89% of Board Directors say digital is part of all business growth strategies. 35% of them have already achieved, or are on track to achieve, digital transformation goals.
The long journey to becoming a digital company is a tricky business. Success depends on many factors, including reasonable objectives that are clear and measurable. There needs to be organization-wide involvement. Sufficient investment in building capabilities needs to be allocated to sustain the change and use the right technology. That technology fits where the company is now and aligns with intermediate and long-term goals.
What to Look for in the “Right” Technologies
One of the critical factors in successful digital transformation is the use of the right technology. Your team has to use the new technology; therefore, it must be easy to use so employees can start using it quickly and see the benefits. Choosing the right technology to support a digital transformation strategy can make all the difference between your workforce adopting it or not.
Organization-wide engagement and discussion are vital in understanding the business’s specific needs and what challenges will be solved by the new technology. Ask yourself, what are the specific goals that need to be achieved? Once these questions have been answered, only then will it be possible to start looking at the available technologies and identify the best fit to meet the specific needs of your operation. Therefore, it’s essential to involve everyone in the discussion. C-level executives must talk with the IT department, and IT should be familiar with the challenges and goals of other aspects of the business.
Scalability is another essential quality to consider. As your business grows and evolves, your technology must grow and evolve with it. Choose technologies that are easily scalable and adaptable to the changing needs of your business. Finally, when choosing the “right” technology, be sure it’s secure and reliable. Businesses rely on its technology to operate. Security and reliability must be part of the design.
The Cloud as a Building Block to Transformation
As businesses evolve in the digital age, many realize the importance of moving to the cloud as a foundational building block to digital transformation. Cloud technology is becoming increasingly essential for companies that want to stay competitive and adapt to the changing business landscape.
One of the key benefits of moving to the cloud is its flexibility. By utilizing cloud-based solutions, companies can quickly and easily scale their operations to meet changing business needs. Scalability is particularly valuable in today’s fast-paced business environment, where companies must respond to unexpected changes and opportunities.
Another significant benefit of cloud technology is the ability to access data anywhere on demand. Remote access allows for more efficient collaboration and decision-making, which is crucial for any business looking to stay ahead in the digital age. With cloud-based solutions, companies can share information with stakeholders without worrying about information infiltration.
As data breaches continue to be a significant concern, companies must ensure that they have the proper security measures to protect sensitive information. By moving to the cloud, companies can take advantage of the latest security technologies and best practices to keep their data safe and secure. In addition, the cloud enables companies to implement advanced and secure system infrastructures.
Cloud Computing is Foundational
Moving to the cloud is a foundational transition for businesses to undertake. 2023 marks a time when companies have already migrated to some type of cloud (public, private, or hybrid) or are about to start the process.
Cloud computing forms two core components of a company’s transformational journey.
The Operational Backbone
First, cloud computing configures processes to support stable operations and helps prepare the infrastructure for further digitalization. Doing what you’ve always done, only better.
The Digital Platform
Second, cloud computing configures processes and enables additional technologies to configure new digital value propositions. Doing things you’ve never been able to do before.
Cloud implementation is the enabler we need to reach digital goals and facilitate digital transformation. And it is easy to see why. Moving to the cloud creates the flexibility company needs to respond to the unexpected. Moving to the cloud is the first step. Businesses with a strategy will ultimately reach digital maturity and be able to reap the rewards that the digital transformation journey promises. Building a plan will help you navigate from where you start today to where you want the business to be at various points in the future.
2023: The Year of Cloud-Driven Technology
As we move deeper into 2023, it’s clear that moving to the cloud is a crucial transition for businesses. Cloud implementation is vital for reaching digital goals and facilitating digital transformation. It creates the flexibility needed to respond to unexpected changes and is the first step toward digital maturity.
Companies are increasing their competitiveness by embracing digital technologies such as cloud computing, AI, IoT, virtual and augmented reality, blockchain, and 5G. The Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, has disrupted nearly every sector and aspect of our lives, forcing industries to change how they do business.
Retail
Physical stores are shifting towards online shopping carts.
Healthcare
Telehealth offers more efficient access to the best medical care available.
Manufacturing
Industry 4.0 promises a smart warehouse where connected equipment tracks inventory and sends alerts when it’s time for maintenance.
Publishing
Digital editions are increasingly the preference over more traditional forms of publishing, such as books, magazines, and newspapers.
Connectivity and being constantly on and available are essential for industries to stay relevant.
An important thing to remember about digital technologies is that they are interconnected. More and more, the boundaries between them are blurring. Cloud-based solutions for hybrid and remote working and automation combine in ways that enable them to enhance each other.
Digital transformation is no longer an option for businesses that want to remain relevant. Thanks to the pandemic, the world is digital, and there is no going back.
Many project investments in digital transformation to reach $2.3 trillion by 2023, and industries as diverse as manufacturing, agriculture, health, energy, and mobility will be a part of this transformation.
Even the best in-house IT departments are too busy to stay on top of the new ways technologies can help businesses grow and work more efficiently. But there are fundamental steps every company must take to be on a level playing field with their competitors. One is having at least part of their environment on the cloud. Another is identifying essential business objectives that could only be achieved through leveraging digital technology. There is a crucial difference between those companies that follow trends to jump on the bandwagon and those that envision how technology can help them achieve far-reaching business objectives.
Have a Vision
Sometimes creativity and innovation kick in when our backs are against the wall. Best Buy is an excellent example of using technology to turn a crisis into an opportunity. For years, Best Buy has been confronted with visitors checking out products in their physical store and ordering them at a discount through Amazon. It’s a practice called “showrooming,” It has been a thorn in the side of many retail companies, not just Best Buy. Target, Walmart, and Macy’s have all been struggling with “showrooming” to one degree or another.
By reconfiguring its supply chain and leveraging its retail footprint, Best Buy began offering order online and curbside pickup options to its customers. Best Buy started doing that over 12 years ago. When the pandemic hit, they quickly transformed each physical store into a hub for customer pickup.
Halfway through 2020, Best Buy made the most of the situation to experiment with different value propositions, including opening new stores for one-on-one in-store consultation. The company knows that its customers still crave a shopping experience. They like the convenience of going into a store, looking around, checking out products, and being able to ask questions about it. They’re trying different things based on this assumption, which seems to be working for them.
Best Buy just opened a couple of experimental concept stores. One is a small foot boutique in North Carolina. The store is a showroom where customers use their phones to scan what they want, and an employee brings the item out for purchase. The other “experiment” is a larger “virtual store” inside an existing warehouse. Customers get the same excellent Best Buy service through live video product demonstrations.
The aim of digital business design is to make companies agile enough to create a steady stream of innovative and evolving portfolios of digitally born offerings. One benefit of becoming a digital company is the ability to experiment with different value propositions. Leadership can respond rapidly to changing technologies and consumer behavior.
Conclusion
The digitization of nearly every sector is leading us into uncharted territory. With new technologies come new opportunities and challenges for businesses across all industries. To stay competitive in this rapidly changing landscape, companies must embrace digital transformation or risk being left behind.
Undergoing digital transformation is not easy; it requires a fundamental change to the way businesses operate on every level. But for companies that can successfully make the transition, the rewards are numerous and significant. From improving customer experiences to generating new revenue streams, there are many reasons why businesses should embark on the journey toward digital transformation.
When done correctly, digital transformation can majorly impact businesses by driving growth, improving efficiency, and creating competitive advantages. However, it’s important to remember that successful digital transformation requires careful planning and execution. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Digital business design aims to make companies agile enough to create a steady stream of innovative and evolving portfolios of digitally born offerings. Embracing digital technologies and aligning them with business goals will be crucial for companies to stay competitive in the 21st century.
Cloud computing allows for easy collaboration and the sharing of data and resources among team members, clients, and vendors. That’s why overall growth in cloud spending continues to be strong. But collaboration and sharing merely scratch the surface of what cloud computing offers. The cloud democratizes computing technology. Cloud computing helps organizations reduce IT headaches, boosts productivity and strengthens security. Small and mid-sized businesses can give enterprise companies a run for their money.
Moving all or part of your IT infrastructure to the cloud enables companies to benefit from new technologies in various ways. Here are examples of some of them:
Scalability: with cloud computing, companies can quickly scale their computing resources up or down as needed. Increased scalability allows you to quickly and easily take advantage of new technologies without investing in expensive hardware.
Flexibility: use cloud services to run applications and store, or process large amounts of data. Test and experiment with technologies and see how they work in your environment.
Cost-Effectiveness:cloud computing can be more cost-effective than traditional on-premises solutions because you’re not making significant upfront investments in hardware. Pay for only the resources you need.
Speed: set up, configure and start using new workstations in minutes. Speed helps companies prototype new ideas, test new technologies, and get the latest products and services to market more quickly.
Access to Leading-Edge Technologies: many cloud providers offer access to cutting-edge technologies, such as AI, machine learning, and big data analytics, as part of their services. Companies can test out technologies without building and maintaining the infrastructure themselves.
Data Security and Compliance: Companies can leverage IronOrbit’s security and compliance features to keep data secure and comply with regulations.
Company-maintained data centers require personnel and hardware. They’re expensive to set up, operate, and maintain. IronOrbit helps you reduce your physical IT footprint and eliminates the tedious, intensive work of managing servers and data centers. Moving to the cloud eliminates costly IT infrastructure. Less infrastructure means your IT staff is not spending time patching servers, updating software, or doing tedious maintenance. Instead, they can work more strategically with stakeholders on high-value business objectives.
IronOrbit’s pay-as-you-go model provides tremendous agility to your business. You can now deploy technology solutions that were once too expensive or complicated to handle. With IronOrbit, you can scale your environment based on your need without paying extra for what you don’t need. Since IronOrbit builds and maintains its environment, we can offer you a cloud solution that makes the most sense for your situation. The IronOrbit cloud provides the kind of control you’d expect from having on-premises servers. Only your environment is safer, more robust, and more resilient in our cloud environment.
For example, let’s say you operate an accounting firm. When tax season rolls around, traffic to your website surges dramatically. Suddenly, you need equipment that can handle the traffic increases. That means you’re paying extra for the power you’ll need for a fraction of the time. The resources to support the site automatically kick in to accommodate the surge if you’re on the cloud. Companies that are quick in adopting cloud computing will have the upper hand in innovation and scaling their business. Those companies that don’t move at least some of their resources to the cloud may have difficulty keeping up and staying competitive.
In Conclusion
Moving to the cloud provides companies of all sizes with a gateway opportunity for growth. Scalability, flexibility, and the speed of cloud computing mobilize companies to create new growth engines and business models. Cloud computing can also enable companies to improve their data security, comply with regulations, and collaborate more effectively with partners and customers. Accessing cutting-edge technologies and services gives companies a competitive edge in the market.
While there are some trade-offs and challenges to consider, the benefits of cloud computing greatly outweigh the costs and risks, providing a solid foundation for growth and success. So, companies should consider moving to the cloud as a part of their long-term growth strategy. Stay competitive and adapt to the ever-changing technology landscape. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation. Start your journey today.
IronOrbit Team Members are highly motivated, highly intelligent individuals who are passionate about what they do. It’s only logical to provide the same in benefits.
Digitization and climate change are both hot topics. The two subjects are also getting used together in the same sentence more frequently. For example, did you know digitization is good for reducing carbon emissions? According to the World Economic Forum, Digital technologies have the potential to reduce global emissions by 15%.
Since the pandemic lockdown, people have been working from home. The workforce has been slow in returning to the corporate office setting. An IFS survey conducted last year reports that almost three-quarters of respondents plan to increase spending on digital transformation. The climate control benefits include a reduction of CO2 emissions due to less commuting and travel to in-person meetings. Technologies like Microsoft Teams have made multi-site team meetings easy and readily available.
Cloud migration is the price of admission to competing in the digital world.
Moving your IT environment to the cloud reduces the need for additional hardware, but more importantly, to your bottom line and the environment, cloud migration modernizes your operations. While being on the cloud, and using robust cloud-enabled services like IronOrbit’s INFINITY Workspaces, won’t make your business carbon neutral, it is a significant first step on that journey.
DEMATERIALIZATION
How You Can Reduce the Environmental Impact on Doing Business
Hardware casings, cords, adaptors, and other electrical products are called E-waste. E-waste is a growing problem. Significant environmental damage happens because nature cannot absorb these products. E-Waste is a significant contributor to the haphazard disposal of old electronics: they’re inert. All E-Waste products contain hazardous materials of one kind or another. The toxic materials are predominantly lead and mercury.
By switching to IronOrbit’s cloud, you can reduce the amount of hardware because you no longer need to invest in so many on-site computer stations. There’s no need to pay for its maintenance or replace machinery when it becomes obsolete. Instead, you only pay for the exact services you need. Over time, this saves you money. Cloud computing can help your company become sustainable while making it more profitable and productive.
Reducing Needless Travel Reduces Carbon Emissions
INFINITY Workspaces is our brand of DaaS, robust technology that enables employees to work remotely with ease. There are different INFINITY packages to fit specific use cases. Even designers and engineers can access the most demanding modern applications on their mobile devices. INFINITY Workspaces empowers Geographically dispersed teams to do their best work. The technology inspires productivity while eliminating the need for lengthy commutes. It also eliminates the carbon emissions associated with daily commutes.
Adopting a work-from-home environment or even a hybrid workplace is an excellent way to reduce your business’s carbon footprint. You could also save some money in the process.
Shared Data Centers Reduce Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
On-premises servers and data centers use substantial amounts of energy both for running and cooling. The manufacturing, packaging, and shipping of the hardware and peripheral products also add to GHG emissions. Companies can reduce emissions considerably by moving to a cloud computing environment. Once a company moves to the cloud, they use shared data centers. Like the ones operated by IronOrbit, shared data centers run far more efficiently than individual facilities or on-premises servers. There is no longer a need for personal equipment.
A recent forecast by the International Data Corporation (IDC) reports that cloud computing will prevent the emission of more than one billion metric tons of CO2 between 2021 and 2024. Moving away from legacy software and hardware and towards cloud adoption is a logical next step for companies. Insofar as business continuity and investment in the future, cloud migration is a necessity.
Cloud computing and all the digital benefits of having your IT infrastructure on the cloud are valuable for IT departments. IT departments can work more closely with business leaders to develop new sustainability goals. It is favorable for companies, and of course, it contributes to a healthier environment.
Contact us for a no-obligation proof of concept. We’re here to help.
At a recent design and manufacturing conference, a question came up. “Is the industry ready to make use of new technologies?” The answer came back, a resounding no. Most companies have skipped the step of digitizing their existing processes, so they’re not ready for new digital inputs. Perhaps an excellent intermediary step would be to reimagine business as usual by partnering with a managed service provider (MSP).
Shifting to a managed services environment is a critical step for many businesses. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with wondering about your next best business decision, then you’re not alone.
Many companies haven’t figured out how to change themselves enough to grapple with legacy challenges, let alone how to solve new, more complex puzzles like digitizing operations. By having an MSP like IronOrbit, companies can take their time becoming more comfortable with the idea of digitizing. When companies are ready to digitize, they won’t need to do major surgery on their IT infrastructure or data architecture before they begin. Instead, they’ll have a reliable partner who can focus on providing the right technology at the right time.
The Growing Skills Gap
In January 2021, a McKinsey study found that 87% of companies worldwideare aware of a skills gap. Gaps in IT departments will become increasingly conspicuous as emerging technologies continue to get a foothold. In the digital age, companies need to move fast. Ongoing IT education is prohibitive for many organizations. Even if the financial resources are available, the process is too slow. There is a genuine need for businesses to move faster than before. Whatever they can do to enable their operations to be more transformative and innovative with their use of technology, the better off they’ll be for whatever happens next.
As soon as an IT, enterprise resource planning (ERP), or e-commerce business solution is down; an organization instantly loses profits. Efficiency and expertise are necessary for getting these solutions back up and running. Bracing for the storm of increasing demand and decreasing labor power, business leaders may feel stuck when making their next move. If this is the case, managed services could be a solution. Here are the factors to consider.
Bridge the Skills Gap
A recent Prudential survey reports that businesses that focus on continuously expanding employee skills have a tremendous advantage over those companies that don’t. When critical business technology goes down, companies can’t wait for internal IT teams to figure it out. Having a managed services partner like IronOrbit can efficiently solve the issue; moreover, a predictive analysis might prevent such disruptions in the first place.
Your Perfect IT Partner: Five Things
When considering a managed services partner to fit your business, there are five key characteristics to consider:
Cost Savings – With IronOrbit’s managed services expertise and ability to efficiently solve IT challenges, you’ll notice significant cost savings by filling the skills gap and preventing extended downtime, lag issues, and recurring IT problems.
An Increase in Productivity & Efficiency– Supporting your business and employees is IronOrbit’s reason for being. IronOrbit’s Managed Services free your internal IT, so they can focus on other priorities and increase your business’s efficiency.
Quick Response Times – IronOrbit’s support staff is available when you need them so you can increase efficiency. IOCentral’s self-help automation tools make it fast and easy to open support tickets and check status around the clock, three hundred and twenty-five days a year. IronOrbit guarantees a consistent and reliable communication line to address urgent issues efficiently. Access to IronOrbit Resources and Specialized Expertise. IronOrbit service providers are certified professionals who have the expertise your business needs.
An Extension of Your IT Department – With IronOrbit’s Managed Services, you’re not just getting a solid and secure IT infrastructure; you’re getting a partner who can liaise between your IT department and your ERP and e-commerce providers for the most effective solutions. Your team will have more time to spend on furthering business-critical activities than solving IT problems.
Finding What Works for Your Business – IronOrbit has the expertise and innovative technology to best support you and your team regardless of the business needs. IronOrbit’s Smart Managed Services enables you and your teams to step away from any IT needs to focus on critical strategies for sustainable business growth. You’ll have more bandwidth to experiment and figure things out. Plus, you’ll have a technology partner ready to provide options for any challenge that may appear on the horizon. Companies face innumerable disruptive threats and risks. IronOrbit’s Smart Managed Services ensure smooth sailing for your IT environment now and in the future. We’ll be there whenever you’re ready to do more of anything, including digitize operations.
Please call us now at 888-753-5060 for a free no-obligation consultation.
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Hardware casings, cords, adaptors, and other electrical products are called E-waste. E-waste is a growing problem. Significant environmental damage happens because nature cannot absorb these products. E-Waste is a significant contributor to the haphazard disposal of old electronics: they’re inert. All E-Waste products contain hazardous materials of one kind or another. The toxic materials are predominantly lead and mercury.
On-premises servers and data centers use substantial amounts of energy both for running and cooling. The manufacturing, packaging, and shipping of the hardware and peripheral products also add to GHG emissions. Companies can reduce emissions considerably by moving to a cloud computing environment. Once a company moves to the cloud, they use shared data centers. Like the ones operated by IronOrbit, shared data centers run far more efficiently than individual facilities or on-premises servers. There is no longer a need for personal equipment.