Summary and Outlook

The preceding chapters have addressed many different topics that need to be considered in the context of a transformation into the public cloud in order to establish the full potential of the public cloud in a corporate environment. Before embarking on cloud transformation, an understanding of the basic principles of the public cloud must first be created. This includes clarifying terminology and distinguishing between Infrastructure-as-a-Service, Platform-as-a-Service, and Software-as-a-Service. By classifying the known hyperscaler services into a cloud canvas, an overview of the diversity of public cloud services is obtained. The adoption of the public cloud is a long-term process based on three maturity levels. The maturity levels determine a company’s progress in cloud transformation and provide guidance. The current position of an organization in the process of cloud transformation can be determined by using a questionnaire. The first stage of cloud adoption focuses on developing a sustainable and comprehensive cloud strategy, from which the roadmap for transformation emerges. In addition, the first foundations are implemented by conducting a cloud readiness assessment, selecting a cloud provider, and setting up a Cloud Center of Excellence. Often, some migrations to the cloud are already carried out in the first phase. This creates a basis for further transformation. The second stage of cloud transformation focuses on managing and optimizing the use of cloud resources. In particular, the consideration of cloud costs is focused using the FinOps approach. To automate and monitor the provision of cloud services, Infrastructure-as-Code approach technologies are established. In combination with a service-oriented operating offer, structured according to Technology Business Management, transparency over the cloud services is increased. The third stage in cloud adoption involves the technical and organizational integration of the Cloud Operating Model to merge business with IT. This interface highlights the added value of the cloud and the benefits of the public cloud can be fully exploited. In addition, the introduction of cloud-native services is in focus in order to fully utilize the technical possibilities of the cloud. These topics are complemented by security concepts to secure the cloud environment.