Cloud Migration Checklist for Small Businesses: A Step-by-Step Guide
Empower Your Business with the Cloud: Securely, Strategically, and with Confidence
For small businesses and organizations across Eastern Wisconsin, the shift to cloud computing is no longer a matter of “if,” but “when.” With benefits like increased flexibility, better security, and lower costs, cloud migration can be a game-changer for your business operations.
But making that move can feel overwhelming, especially without the right partner. That’s where Ontech Systems, Inc., Milwaukee’s trusted IT solutions provider, comes in.
This step-by-step guide walks you through the cloud migration process and shows how Ontech supports every phase – from planning and migration to long-term IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and more.
Why Cloud Migration Matters for Small Businesses
Migrating to the cloud means moving your data, applications, and systems from physical on-site servers to cloud-based platforms. But it’s more than just a tech upgrade. It’s a strategic decision that delivers tangible business benefits:
- Lower IT Costs: Eliminate expensive hardware and only pay for what you use.
- Increased Security: Benefit from enterprise-grade protection, encryption, and compliance.
- Remote Access: Enable remote work and seamless collaboration across locations.
- Scalability: Easily grow your IT environment as your business expands.
- Business Continuity: Safeguard operations with disaster recovery and automated backups.
Whether you’re a healthcare provider managing sensitive records, a local government agency focused on data integrity, a professional service provider working with a variety of clients, or a trade business modernizing operations, cloud migration is a powerful enabler.
Your Cloud Migration Checklist: 7 Key Steps
- Assess Your Current IT Landscape
Start with a comprehensive review of your existing infrastructure. Asking the right questions early on will give you a map of where to go and how to address your business needs. Explore questions like:
- What servers, applications, and data do you use?
- What are the performance bottlenecks?
- How much are you spending on IT annually?
Ontech offers a complimentary IT assessment to help small businesses identify cloud migration opportunities and cost-saving areas. Request a proposal today to get started.
- Align with Business Goals
Cloud strategies should match business objectives. Are you looking to:
- Improve remote work functionality?
- Reduce maintenance and hardware costs?
- Increase data protection and compliance?
A clear vision ensures a cloud solution that adds measurable value.
- Choose the Right Cloud Environment
There’s no one-size-fits-all. You’ll need to evaluate:
- Public Cloud (i.e., Microsoft Azure): Flexible, cost-effective
- Private Cloud: Customized, secure for sensitive data
- Hybrid Cloud: Combines public flexibility with private security
Ontech helps clients determine which model best fits their operational needs, compliance requirements, and budget. Get with an Ontech IT specialist today to discover which cloud option is right for you!
- Develop a Migration Strategy
Effective planning minimizes disruption. A solid strategy includes:
- Prioritizing apps and workloads to move first
- Attention to proper scheduling to avoid business downtime
- Creating a rollback and data backup plan
Our migration team handles everything, from planning to user communication, so your staff can stay focused. Request a free proposal from Ontech Systems, Inc. today.
- Secure Your Data and Systems
Security is not optional. During migration, you’ll need to:
- Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Encrypt data during transit and at rest
- Ensure compliance with HIPAA, CJIS, and other industry standards
Cybersecurity is a core strength at Ontech. We provide end-to-end protection during and after the move.
- Migrate in Phases and Test Thoroughly
We recommend a phased migration approach:
- Move low-risk systems first
- Test integrations and performance
- Train staff on new tools or workflows
With Ontech, you get a dedicated migration project manager and a support team that ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
- Optimize and Maintain Your Cloud Environment
Post-migration success depends on ongoing monitoring:
- Are you paying for unused resources?
- Are backups running properly?
- Are your employees using tools effectively?
- Do you have a Disaster Recovery Plan in place?
Ontech provides proactive IT monitoring, regular system audits, cybersecurity training, and long-term support, ensuring your cloud solution continues to work effectively for you.
Why Small Businesses in Eastern Wisconsin Trust Ontech Systems
Based in Milwaukee and proudly serving businesses throughout Eastern Wisconsin, Ontech Systems has been helping organizations migrate, secure, and optimize their IT for over 20 years.
What sets Ontech Systems, Inc. apart is our strong local presence and deep understanding of the unique business needs across Eastern Wisconsin. Our team brings certified expertise in cloud platforms, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance, ensuring that every solution we deliver is both secure and effective. We specialize in serving industries like healthcare, government, trades, and professional services, each with their own distinct challenges and requirements. From strategic cloud planning to 24/7 help desk support, we offer true end-to-end IT services. And with our commitment to transparent pricing, clients can expect straightforward, dependable service with no hidden costs.
Let’s build your cloud strategy together. Whether you’re just beginning to explore cloud migration or need a reliable partner to optimize and support your existing environment, Ontech Systems, Inc. is here to guide you every step of the way.
