Even though the cloud is nothing new in today’s workplace, many businesses have underestimated its impact on how business is done. Workforce needs are changing to support these migrations, and the way we work is shifting right along with it. And this level of change can’t be left to fate.
Many IT businesses are facing the reality that significant restructuring is in order to support operations in an as-a-service world. If you haven’t begun making preparations, or aren’t sure where to begin, here are three big steps you need to consider.
Forgoing Traditional Operating Models
The cloud has brought increased agility into most organizations. In fact, that is one of its selling points. But adjusting to these new paradigms isn’t necessarily easy, even if operations can improve.
Before you try to revamp your entire structure at once, create a transition plan that supports these new operating models. Often, IT services that don’t have large-scale production data, like testing and development, are easier to transition to the cloud. Additionally, the move often supports larger goals like the implementation of agile strategies and DevOps principles.
As you reach a point of stability with those systems, continue branching out in sections, leaving critical workloads to the end. And don’t feel as though you have to rush through the processes. Often, this type of transformation is measured in years, not months.
Cultivate a New Culture
Transition at this level brings an inherent amount of concern and resistance. This means you have to facilitate a cultural shift to help support operational changes. Generally, this means transitioning slowly and allowing support teams to work with groups throughout the organization to increase support.
Support teams need to be comprised of more than IT professionals as well. Much of the cultural change will need business and management support, so key members of the support team need to represent these areas as well. They serve as a sounding board for the individuals they archetypically represent and can help make IT initiatives more accessible to those who are less familiar with the idiosyncrasies of the technology and the jargon used to describe it.
Begin by focusing on services that are typically simpler to deliver. This approach can help alleviate any anxiety about implementing new solutions on this scale as early successes are easier to achieve.
Find Skill Gaps
Implementing new technologies means skill gaps will become evident among team members. This means most members of the leadership team will need to either face these issues proactively or have plans in place to manage them when they arise.
A proactive approach can include upskilling the current IT workforce, as well as bringing in new employees who have experience in key areas. A reactive approach can include training opportunities as well as new hires but may leave your business stagnant until the skills are developed, or new talent is found.
While many of these changes feel fast, they will be critical to future success in our increasingly as-a-service oriented workplace. If you want to be prepared to meet the challenges these transitions present, the professionals at ITStaff can help you find the IT professionals you need to make these changes manageable. Contact us and see what our skilled recruiters can do to help you meet the needs of tomorrow today.
