Cloud Computing: Navigating Office 365 Migrations

Grazed from ChannelProSMB. Author: Samuel Greengard.

During the last few years, cloud computing has drifted into the mainstream of business. It’s no secret that the technology is changing the way organizations approach IT—and the way people interact and work. But along with all the potential gains come some noticeable pains—especially when data migrations are part of the picture. And nowhere is this more apparent than in the current shift toward Microsoft Office 365.

Although cloud-based email can present significant advantages versus the traditional client/server approach, migrating to a cloud platform can prove difficult and frustrating. “IT projects have been around for decades, but the cloud and the rapid pace of change are placing enormous pressure on SMBs,” says Todd Schwartz, co-founder and co-CEO of Seattle-based migration software provider SkyKick. “Moving applications and data presents challenges and risks.”…

Of course, as small businesses look to Office 365 to address their needs, channel partners must often oversee and manage the transition. However, because Microsoft offers only basic tools to manage migrations, the process can prove tedious, time-consuming, and sometimes chaotic. “Many companies that attempt to handle the migration wind up bogged down and sometimes stalled out,” notes Jason Wingert, vice president and principal consultant at Interlink Cloud Advisors Inc. in Cincinnati…

Read more from the source @ http://www.channelprosmb.com/article/navigating_office_365_migrations