Frederik Svensson presents a strategic alternative for European companies looking to exit American cloud services, offering a well-thought-out plan B.
As organisations are increasingly dependent on US managed cloud services, they are encountering uncertainty regarding how shifts in the US political landscape might impact the data-sharing agreement between the US and the EU.
Recently, Data Protect Authorities in Scandinavia has recommended that organisations should have a plan B and exit strategy for their cloud services if they can no longer be used as today.
The debate over how governments and businesses should utilise US cloud services is not a new one, but it has gained prominence as global dynamics change. Rather than viewing this as a challenge, consider it an opportunity to enhance your organisation’s digital resilience and long term flexibility. Here are some strategic steps to empower you to take charge and develop a strong contingency plan.
1. Conduct a risk analysis
Begin by thoroughly mapping and examining your organisation’s reliance on US cloud services. It is essential to pinpoint which systems and business sectors currently utilise these services. Take an inventory of the applications and data housed within them and evaluate the potential consequences of any changes. Develop a prioritised list of systems that might require replacement.
2. Explore alternative solutions
There are numerous alternatives to US cloud services, including several European cloud providers, with our own Redpill Linpro Nordic Cloud as a viable option. Conduct a comprehensive market analysis to discover suitable alternatives. Investigate how these services can be acquired and integrated. Keep in mind that replacing services is seldom a simple one-to-one swap and often necessitates customisation.
3. Develop a strategy for a phased transition
Creating a well-structured migration strategy is essential to minimising potential disruptions. Consider designing a hybrid model where some applications remain on US cloud services, while others transition to on-premises or European alternatives. Focus on prioritising critical systems and those with significant legal risks associated with continued use of US cloud services. It is crucial to ensure that your organisation possesses the necessary skills to effectively manage this transition.
4. Conduct a Proof of Concept
Before embarking on a full-scale migration, it is important to test and validate alternative solutions. Implement a pilot project in a different environment, such as a regional cloud solution or internal infrastructure. Assess key factors like performance, costs, and skill requirements. Identify any challenges encountered and refine your strategy based on insights gained during the testing phase.
5. Implement the migration plan
After completing thorough analyses and tests, the next step is to implement the strategy. Adhere to the prioritised plan and migrate systems in a series of controlled steps. It is crucial to document each phase of the transition and ensure that operations are stabilised after every step.
6. Develop a long-term exit strategy
To prevent future lock-in scenarios, it is essential to incorporate an exit strategy into all upcoming cloud contracts. Clearly define requirements in tenders that allow for a change of supplier if needed. Emphasise the use of open standards and open source solutions to enhance interoperability and ease future migrations. Additionally, ensure that data management and storage practices align with EU regulatory requirements.
Final reflections
The current unpredictability in US cloud services presents a valuable chance to enhance your organisation’s digital independence. By thoughtfully assessing your options, facilitating a seamless transition, and crafting a comprehensive long-term strategy, you can effectively safeguard your digital transformation. Taking proactive steps now will better prepare you to tackle future challenges and adeptly maneuver through the evolving cloud landscape with increased self-reliance and assurance.
