Ep. 45 Multicloud: Best Practices and MSP role

Welcome to this week’s episode. Today, we will address a relevant topic: The Multicloud, what it is, and what it’s not, a couple of best practices, and a bonus question.

As always, this will be simple and concise but accurate. Click on Subscribe if you want to be informed of new episodes.

A couple of weeks ago, I posted a survey on LinkedIn where I asked the audience to provide feedback on how many Cloud Service Providers their organization uses.

80% of the audience thought their organization uses two or more CSPs.

Is doing business with two or more Cloud Service Providers a good indication of using a Multicloud model?

There are other elements to consider before naming a cloud deployment a Multicloud.

Let’s start by defining what Multicloud is.

What is a Multicloud?

We may say that Multicloud refers to using multiple cloud computing services in a single architecture rather than relying on a single service provider. It allows an organization to use the best technology and benefits from a variety of cloud providers and to choose the right cloud for the right workload. This approach can provide greater flexibility and scalability, as well as lower costs and increased security. However, it also introduces additional complexity, as the organization must manage and integrate multiple cloud environments.

In the same context, any architecture that relies on a single cloud provider would not be considered Multicloud.

Jose, I see the point, but often an organization consumes cloud services as siloed solutions and does not follow a single architecture. Is that considered a Multicloud?

In these cases, we typically see Multicloud with deployment issues.

Typical issues of using Multicloud incorrectly.

Several potential issues can arise when using a Multicloud architecture, especially if it is not implemented or managed correctly:

1. Complexity: Managing multiple cloud environments can be complex, as it requires coordinating between different providers and keeping track of multiple accounts and billing systems.
2. Lack of integration: If the various cloud environments are not properly integrated, it can lead to data silos, inconsistency, and difficulty in migrating applications and data between clouds.
3. Security risks: Using multiple cloud providers can increase the attack surface, as an organization must secure multiple environments rather than just one.
4. Vendor lock-in: Depending on the specific tools and services being used, an organization could become locked into a particular provider, which could limit flexibility and increase costs in the long run.
5. Cost optimization: If the Multicloud architecture is not properly planned and managed, it can lead to overprovisioning of resources and higher costs.
6. Lack of visibility: It can be challenging to get a comprehensive view of an organization’s overall cloud usage and costs when using multiple providers.

Is Multicloud the right solution for all organizations?

Many times, but not all times: The decision to adopt a Multicloud architecture should be based on the business needs, business drivers, and goals of the organization.

The best-case scenario is that this decision should be a consequence of their Digital Transformation initiative.

Ok, Jose. Quick question: If an organization wants to improve its existing Multicloud deployment, is that accomplished via a multi-step approach (evolution) or a big-bang approach (disruption)?

Many things can be fixed via evolution, and in some cases, it will be required to implement some disruptive changes.

And a bonus!

There is an increasing trend in Enterprise organizations to explore and hire Managed Services Providers to help them manage their Multicloud environment and mitigate some implementation risks.

Here are some of the typical key values that an MSP provides

Role of an MSP helping a client with Multicloud?

Managed service providers (MSPs) can play several roles in helping clients with Multicloud implementations:

1. Planning and strategy: MSPs can help clients develop a Multicloud strategy that aligns with their business goals and requirements. This can involve assessing the organization’s current and future workloads, determining which clouds are the best fit for each workload, and developing a roadmap for implementing and managing the Multicloud architecture.
2. Implementation and integration: MSPs can assist with the technical aspects of implementing a Multicloud architecture, including setting up accounts with multiple cloud providers, integrating the various cloud environments, and migrating applications and data.
3. Management and maintenance: MSPs can provide ongoing management and maintenance of the Multicloud environment, including monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing performance and costs.
4. Consulting and expertise: MSPs can provide guidance and expertise on best practices for using Multicloud and help clients make informed decisions about which cloud providers and services to use.
5. Support: MSPs can provide technical support to help clients with any issues or questions that arise during the Multicloud implementation and management process.

Good enough?

I hope you find this Episode valuable and entertaining.

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