Understanding Migration: The Beginning of Digital Transformation and Data Transition - Step 4!

Today, many companies are choosing cloud migration from on-premises systems for more efficient and secure data management. Migration is not just a technical transition; it is a crucial process for enhancing business competitiveness. However, successful data transition requires thorough pre-analysis and a step-by-step plan.

In this article, we will introduce the core concept of cloud migration and explore a strategic approach to optimizing your company’s data assets for the new environment.

Source: Freepik

1. What is Migration?

Source: Freepik

Migration refers to the process of moving an entire system, including data and software, to a new environment. A common example is transitioning from on-premises data management to the cloud. Migration also involves optimizing and, if necessary, restructuring data to fit the new business environment. As such, migration has become an essential component for any company considering digital transformation today.

2. Reasons to Consider Cloud Migration

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Let's explore three key reasons why companies planning digital transformation prioritize cloud migration.

• Cost Savings

Using cloud services significantly reduces costs associated with maintaining file servers and data centers. Additionally, when expanding server capacity, companies can add resources without the need for new physical equipment or infrastructure, minimizing initial investment and allowing for flexible resource usage as needed.

• Operational Efficiency

Cloud migration enables the creation of an environment where data can be accessed in real time. This is particularly suitable for today’s work culture, which increasingly involves remote work and collaboration. Team members can simultaneously edit or review the same files, making collaboration easier and more efficient.

• Data Protection

Cloud services come equipped with their own security solutions, allowing for safe data storage and sharing. With features such as data backup, access control, and encryption, cloud services help protect against data loss and external threats, while also reducing the risk of data breaches within the organization.

📍Top 3 Methods for Data Backup: Protecting Your Data with Cloud Backup

3. Introducing Three Migration Tools

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When selecting migration tools, it's essential to consider factors such as stability, scalability, and cross-platform compatibility. With the recent acceleration of cloud transitions, various migration tools are being used for database transfers and server migrations. Let’s take a look at some popular migration tools used by companies!

① AWS Database Migration Service(DMS)

AWS DMS is a cloud-based data migration service that facilitates the transfer of data from on-premises to the cloud or between cloud environments. It easily integrates with various databases and AWS services, allowing for rapid cloud migration and reducing the overall migration period. While it offers real-time data replication for safety, costs may increase for large-scale migrations or long-term data replication.

② Azure Database Migration Service

Azure DMS is a Microsoft service that enables the migration of on-premises servers, databases, and virtual machines to the Azure data platform. Tailored for the Azure environment, it allows seamless integration with other Azure services and supports migration from multiple database sources. It also provides insights into compatibility and cost estimation, making it easier to plan migrations. However, the initial setup can be somewhat complex for new users.

③ Carbonite Migrate

Carbonite Migrate efficiently facilitates the transition of data from on-premises to the cloud. It offers an automated migration process, simplifying the workflow and enabling users without technical expertise to carry out migrations easily. However, the initial setup can be challenging in complex IT infrastructures, and costs may be relatively high for large-scale or long-term migrations.

4. Data Migration Transition: Step 4

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Let’s explore the four steps involved in the data transition process for achieving successful data migration.

① Analyze Current Data and Infrastructure

The first step is to analyze the current state of your data and infrastructure. To successfully perform data migration, you need to assess the size, type, and importance of the data stored on your servers. This analysis helps you prioritize the migration based on the characteristics of each data type. Additionally, it’s important to understand the security requirements of the cloud platform and evaluate the performance of your current infrastructure to determine its suitability for migration. This analysis will allow you to compare expected costs and potential performance improvements.

② Choose a Cloud Platform

The next step is to select the most suitable cloud platform for your organization. The success of migration largely depends on this choice, and the following factors should be considered:

• Flexibility and Scalability: Choose a platform that can flexibly scale storage capacity in line with your organization's growth and changes.
• Security: Ensure that the platform provides the necessary security measures for safe data transition and storage.
• Performance: Review the performance of the servers and database structures offered by the cloud platform. A platform with high throughput and quick response times will ensure smooth business operations post-migration.
• Cost: Compare the pricing plans of different platforms within your migration budget. It's advisable to check if the usage-based fees are reasonable and if there are any potential additional costs.
  

③ Develop a Migration Plan and Strategy

The success of your migration hinges on a well-defined plan and strategy. Thorough preparation and detailed planning can minimize risks during the data transition.

• Prioritize Data: Rather than migrating all data at once, set priorities based on importance. Migrating less critical data first allows for quick resolution if issues arise.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks such as data corruption, file loss, or operational downtime in advance, and establish a backup strategy. Particularly important data should be backed up separately to minimize risks.
• Testing and Validation: To reduce potential issues during migration, conduct a pilot migration and test to ensure that the data functions correctly. Have contingency plans in place for service interruptions.

④ Execute the Migration

The final step is to carry out the migration. Data migration should occur in stages, with real-time monitoring to address any issues promptly.

• Phased Transition: Instead of migrating all data at once, proceed in phases to minimize the risk of operational downtime and data loss. If a service interruption occurs, quickly resolve the issue following the pre-planned scenario.
• Data Verification: Once the migration is complete, verify that all data has been accurately transferred. Additionally, confirm that the migrated applications and systems function as expected and make any necessary adjustments to optimize performance.

📍Four Ways to Determine the Storage Capacity Needed for the Company

5. Store Your Data with Rakuten Drive Cloud Storage!

Migration is at the heart of digital transformation, allowing businesses to enjoy various benefits such as cost savings, enhanced security, and improved operational efficiency by moving data to the cloud. However, to fully realize these advantages, selecting a reliable cloud solution is essential.

Rakuten Drive offers customized pricing plans that match the storage capacity your business needs, along with robust security solutions to protect your data safely. If you’re considering how to manage your digital data files, why not start your data management journey with Rakuten Drive?

👉 Learn More About Rakuten Drive

One of the primary reasons for transitioning data to the cloud is security. Rakuten Drive provides all the necessary security features to safeguard your valuable business data. With its robust security solution, which boasts cutting-edge technology and strong security measures, your data is thoroughly protected. Additionally, strategically located servers around the world ensure optimal service quality.

👉 Check Out Rakuten Drive Case Studies

Rakuten Drive’s cloud storage offers customizable pricing plans tailored to the size and needs of your business. You can adjust your fees based on usage, from 500 GB to 10 TB, allowing you to minimize unnecessary costs and manage your budget efficiently. Additionally, it provides the flexibility to increase or decrease storage capacity based on specific projects or seasonal demands.

So far, we’ve explored the concept of migration, the importance of cloud transition, and step-by-step strategies. How about adapting to a new business environment with Rakuten Drive, which allows you to pursue both data security and cost savings? Discover an efficient way to store your data with Rakuten Drive!

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