2. Do I need real-time or near real-time access to your data?
Some businesses require that data be available instantly, or in real time, from their applications or from processes that create the data. For example, if you own a catering business thats dependent on knowing the number of orders that have been placed for your services before you place your food order, you may need that information in real or near real time. You cant afford to not have that data available to you in aggregate form. You need a list of all orders broken down by items required to fulfill on the menus and you may need it at a certain time each day or each hour depending on your business volume.
Because most cloud applications are only as fast as the networks that serve them, this can be an important consideration when deciding how fast you need access to your information. Remember, too, that some network providers charge for faster access so this can become a consideration for expense as well.
3. Am I using data for operations, reporting or analytics? All? Or any combination of the above?
Deciding upfront what data you need from your cloud provider is important. Do you just need a dump of the raw data from the application each day or week so you can develop your own reports for operations or will you be dependent on the reports provided by the cloud application vendor? Will you have a requirement to delve deeper into the data based on the reports that are provided? Does the vendor allow for this additional data analysis? How will you handle the data analysis environment? Will you need to create your own data warehouse on premises or can the cloud vendor provide this capability?
If youre only storing data with a cloud vendor, what tools can you use to access the data? Will you need additional training or expertise?
Cloud computing is valuable to businesses because it provides flexibility and increased computing power at a reduced cost. But remember, your data is an important part of the overall cloud architecture and deserves careful consideration.
Other articles by Theresa:
Ready for the New Era of Data?
The Price of Privacy
Big Data
Hidden Gold