TRENDING
Most enterprises do not have the need for complicated , open-source software . Opt for a purpose-built , upgradeable and well-supported stack from a trusted vendor and ensure that the provider offers APIs that allow for easy integration with other software applications .
Security
Andrew Cruise , Managing Director , Routed well-performing product and to be available to support you will be diluted .
Datacentre
Just as your cloud provider should be a specialist , you should make sure they use a colocation facility that is also a true expert in its field . Decisionmakers should check up on the appropriate certifications and a proven record of security , redundancy , and resilience across power , dual UPS , dual generators , CRAC , computer room air conditioning and fire risk mitigation .
An open access , vendor-neutral site at one of the main peering points for Internet connectivity is preferable , so that connectivity is not restricted or charged at a premium due to vendor lock-ins . For best performance and minimal latency , it should also be located in-country .
Guarantees
With load shedding reaching unprecedented levels , a cloud provider ’ s reliability is essential to ensure that your business operations are not disrupted by system failures or downtime . Look for a provider that offers a robust service level agreement , SLA , including uptime guarantees and penalties for failure to meet the SLA . A minimum n + 1 redundancy is a given , though n + 2 or 2n is preferable .
Data can be worth more than gold . Besides redundancy and fault tolerance measures as well as backup and disaster recovery services , find out how your data will be protected . Will it be kept in a single instance only , snapshotted locally , or replicated across failure domains ? What additional security options are available ? You should make sure your cloud provider cares as much about your data as you do and has a proven record of top-notch security .
Location
Even global software and hardware vendors are starting to cater to the unique requirements of African markets , but none will understand it as well as a local vendor . The benefits of local providers include data sovereignty and POPIA compliance , an understanding of fibre and undersea cable rollouts , and the importance of reliable internet connectivity in cloud services , and knowledge of the state of the cloud market in Africa and how it is evolving .
Most important is the availability of support . Though some international providers also offer reliable support , interacting with people who are in the same country and speak the same language , in all senses , is a quicker route to good support .
Cost
Cost is a critical factor for businesses operating in Africa , where cost-efficiency is crucial for survival . But be careful of choosing cheap over efficient . Your cloud provider should offer competitive pricing models that align with your business needs and budget , as well as scalability and various pricing models on that scale .
Interface
If your business relies on various software applications , it is essential to choose a cloud provider that can integrate with these applications seamlessly . But although there is a host of tools and features available from cloud providers these days , not every enterprise needs all the bells and whistles . Choose a provider that uses proven , reliable , easy-to-use management and orchestration tools .
Keep in mind that costs are increasing or likely to increase soon due to factors such as load shedding , which affects operating costs at local data centres and the current economic squeeze , which affects the exchange rate for international packages .
By carefully evaluating these criteria , businesses can select a cloud provider that not only lifts their operations but also propels them towards a future of efficiency , scalability , and growth in the digital age . p
20 INTELLIGENTCIO AFRICA www . intelligentcio . com