Cloud computing has garnered a great deal of attention, both from businesses and the managed service providers that broker their telecom packages. The public model, in particular, has drawn a lot of interest from businesses looking to hop on the cloud computing bandwagon. However, it is becoming increasingly apparent that hybrid models, which combine public and private services, offer nimbler, more flexible solutions.

In essence, hybrid models combine the benefits of both public and private virtual spaces, delivering some services through secure private networks and others through accessible, low-cost public networks. The end result is a superior value proposition, enabling Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to boost client retention rates. As such, MSPs looking for a strategic edge should seriously consider adding hybrid cloud models to their service offerings.

How the Hybrid Cloud Drives Value

When cloud computing first emerged, many MSPs advised their clients not to jump on board, fearing that the cloud put their security and privacy at risk. The subsequent emergence of private cloud services mitigated these concerns, though at inflated costs. Hybrid models provided a measure of relief by using private services only for sensitive and critical functions, while leaving everything else in the public cloud.

However, as all experienced MSPs know, no two clients have the exact same needs. As such, it’s vital for MSPs to offer dynamic solutions that can be tailored to meet the unique demands of specific clients.

Building a Hybrid Cloud

While many factors influence the creation of a hybrid cloud solution, the vast majority of successful hybrid strategies are essentially built on two similar models, one of which remains public while the other remains private. Where possible, these two models can be overlapped to privatize important elements while leaving nonessential functions in the more easily accessible and less expensive public space.

In other words, MSPs should create a public cloud model for whatever services he or she sells. At the same time, the MSP should also develop a strictly private alternative to that same model. From there, clients can choose to go public, private, or a combination of the two.

When developing a private cloud model, MSPs need to consider two key factors.

• First, it’s essential that they understand who is using the data stored on the private cloud.
• And second, they must also identify how those individuals are accessing that data.

In a public cloud model, the questions of “who” and “how” aren’t really considered. For MSPs, knowing the answers to these two key questions enables them to maximize revenues and market their services more effectively. There will always be clients who want to take advantage of cloud computing without shelling out a lot of money for private services, but others will be happy to pay extra for added security. It is the latter category of customers who will be drawn to private and hybrid models.

MSPs who want to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving and ever-changing world of cloud computing need to move away from prepackaged models. Hybrid cloud computing positions the MSP as a key vendor of flexible and dynamic solutions that speak to the values of individual clients.

Overall, it’s important that MSPs stay ahead of the curve when it comes to new cloud technologies while still maintaining strong partnerships. Click here to learn how to effectively leverage cloud services for your clients.