Due to persistent global economic challenges, businesses are rigorously reviewing their budgets. Cloud services have emerged as a popular strategy, promising lower overall costs, heightened agility, and better productivity. But are companies truly optimizing the cost-saving potential of the cloud?
Surprisingly, a 2020 study revealed that 80% of global businesses overshoot their cloud infrastructure budgets, primarily due to ineffective cloud utilization strategies.1 By 2022, over a third of companies were in the dark about streamlining their cloud spending.1
Breaking Down the Cloud Dilemma: Key Strategies
Top IT expert, Glenn Kemp of Clear Concepts in Winnipeg, elaborated on the issue. “Most IT decision-makers have cloud optimization high on their agenda. However, maintaining and securing the cloud infrastructure can be all-consuming. That’s where strategic approaches like FinOps can turn the tide.”
Kemp highlighted his work with a major pharmaceutical company, where they cut their annual cloud spending by a significant 20% by adopting a FinOps approach. “With a disciplined focus on controlling costs, managing usage, and minimizing waste during the testing phase, companies can unlock substantial savings,” Kemp stated.
The Multi-Cloud Maze: Managing the Complexity
Rob Giannini of GiaSpace in Gainesville, Florida, says navigating multiple cloud service providers can be tricky. “While engaging multiple vendors can give companies a bargaining advantage, cost isn’t the only factor to consider. As the cloud footprint expands, so does the complexity of its management.”
Giannini cited the experience of a large retail firm that grappled with its multi-cloud environment. “Initially, their costs shot up. However, with external expertise and effective tools and strategies, they achieved significant cost savings and boosted their operational efficiency.”
Unlocking IT Cost Savings: A Practical Roadmap
Jorge Rojas from Tektonic Managed Services in Toronto, a firm specializing in cost-effective solutions, emphasized the importance of expert guidance. “Each business is unique. A team of experts can offer bespoke solutions and roadmaps, paving the way for significant savings.”
Rojas shared an inspiring story of a digital marketing firm that saved 24% on license costs. “They revised their cloud usage strategy and implemented our recommendations. The savings they realized were substantial.”
Rojas also suggested actionable steps for businesses to manage their cloud spending:
- Understand current usage: Analyze your cloud services usage patterns.
- Make a plan: Devise a comprehensive strategy for effective cloud utilization.
- Keep track: Monitor your cloud usage consistently and adjust the strategy as required.
- Seek expertise: Don’t hesitate to enlist external help for efficient cloud usage management.
In Conclusion
In the complex landscape of the digital economy, survival requires strategic planning and innovative solutions. As industry insiders like Glenn Kemp, Rob Giannini, and Jorge Rojas have shown, mastering the intricacies of cloud spending, managing a multi-cloud strategy, and utilizing expert help can empower businesses to weather economic downturns and thrive amidst them.