Hybrid cloud is the norm. Two-thirds of organizations that blend traditional and cloud infrastructures are already gaining advantage from their hybrid environments. However, leaders among them use hybrid cloud to power their digital transformation, going beyond cost reduction and productivity gains.

What’s more, these leaders are using hybrid cloud to springboard to next-generation initiatives such as Internet of Things and cognitive computing, aiming to disrupt and capture new markets.

For some companies, hybrid cloud is a strategic move—accompanied by comprehensive and orchestrated management of their hybrid environment. But others may find themselves in a hybrid mode due to organic growth of their IT infrastructure and may not have a well thought-out strategy or comprehensive control over their blended environment.

Suggestions for Hybrid Cloud Success:

Think big picture

Collaborate across the business to develop a comprehensive hybrid strategy that can take advantage of existing infrastructure investments and the flexibility of cloud.

  • Are your IT and business leaders joining forces on the organization’s needs?
  • Does your strategy inform clear implementation and integration plans for your hybrid environment?

Move from vision to reality Advance digital innovation Shape the future

Apply advanced technologies to better manage complexity and secure hybrid environments.

  • Can predictive or prescriptive analytics provide insights for improving the operation of your hybrid environment?
  • Are you using open technologies to increase interoperability and portability across your hybrid environment?

Advance digital innovation

Move beyond foundational gains of efficiency and productivity to high-value digital business benefits such as faster innovation and increased customer engagement.

  • How can hybrid capabilities help you accelerate development of digital services to grow your business?
  • How are you expanding and connecting your ecosystem of partners and customers?

Shape the future

Pilot emerging technologies and next-generation initiatives that establish differentiation across industries and disrupt markets.

  • Can hybrid cloud enable your foray into cognitive computing to create intelligent systems?
  • Can hybrid cloud help spearhead your IoT initiatives to connect devices and data for business gain?

Growing up in a hybrid world is undoubtedly complex, as organizations strive to find the right balance of traditional IT and cloud services to match their business needs. From the success stories, we know the move to hybrid cloud must be strategic and intentional. In a hybrid world, those who score high on the management of hybrid environments can get greater value from their existing IT investments and leapfrog to disruptive business and technology initiatives.

Schedule a consultation to discover how you can start extrending your hybrid cloud.

If you liked this blog, you might also like:  5 cloud predictions for 2017

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