The shift to hybrid and cloud computing allows companies to be nimbler and more responsive to changing customer demands and increase their competitive edge. But complex legacy environments can hinder that goal. Enterprise systems that can’t scale quickly, securely, or economically bog down staff and drain resources. As more infrastructure, workloads, and data transition to the cloud, IT leaders want to simplify the network through managed infrastructure services that enable cost-effective technology delivery.
One outgrowth of this evolution is IT-as-a-Service (ITaaS). A cloud-based service model, ITaaS provides enterprises with the capabilities and technology resources they need using subscription-based or consumption-based payment options.
To find out more about the shift from traditional IT infrastructure to ITaaS and to explore how organizations can use ITaaS most effectively, Hitachi Vantara commissioned Forrester Consulting to conduct a survey of IT decision-makers in midsize organizations in North America and Europe.
The Driving Need: Network Modernization
The research indicates that ITaaS budgets are expected to grow quickly and will account for 22% of the total IT infrastructure within three years, an increase of 57% current spending. Coinciding with that is the growth is the number of companies who rely on ITaaS: 56% of respondents said their company uses ITaaS for all its primary infrastructure, but that is expected to climb to 86% in three years. In particular, advanced monitoring capabilities are fueling adoption, with a projected 70% increase in use.
Modernization is a key driver of ITaaS adoption, which offers enterprises the agility that they often can’t maintain alone. Cloud-based environments allow companies to deliver technology services with speed and flexibility, so they can offer innovative services, adjust to the market, and scale as needed. However, hybrid cloud environments can present operational challenges and constraints. ITaaS simplifies infrastructure management, easing the path to network modernization.
Working with a trusted partner can minimize pain points throughout the evolution to ITaaS. With greater financial investments, organizations seek strong partners that can reduce their operational burden, so they can focus on developing advanced business solutions.
Choosing a Strategic Partner
Selecting the best strategic partner depends on the organization’s ITaaS capabilities and needs, but the study revealed some recurring themes.
- First, take time to find a good fit. A solid partner should be adaptable and knowledgeable, offer the needed services, and have solid references. Select a team that is collaborative, can support multiple vendors, and can scale with the organization. Changing partners can be problematic after ITaaS adoption.
- Explore pricing models and use the right one from the start. Some IT leaders indicated that they are shifting from subscription to consumption-based models, while others want to purchase a specific amount of infrastructure. Keep in mind that variable workloads are well suited to consumption-based models, which can lower costs.
- Tap into the ITaaS partner’s knowledge base. A strong partner can help an organization develop and create innovative services. They work with a range of customers and that experience can be a gold mine when launching new services.
The growth of ITaaS is guaranteed. These tips can help organizations as they transition to cloud-based services and develop their business offerings.
Download the complete Forrester report: Embracing ITaaS for Adaptability and Growth.