Cloud tip: Ask your cloud computing provider to define its testing process
In a previous article we discussed the five questions every executive should ask before moving to a cloud computing provider. One popular use of cloud computing is to create a development – or testing environment – for various on-premise IT projects.
This made us wonder: How many cloud computing providers test their solution before offering it to the public – and how often do they test and develop their processes?
How testing and development improves cloud computing implementation
I read with interest John Michelsen’s blog post regarding the biggest development for the cloud in 2011. John claims that “the biggest development for the cloud this year was, well. . . development IN the cloud”.
John explains how development and test environments are the best first use case of cloud computing. I contend that development/test environments are essential not only for traditional enterprise networks, but also for cloud networks. Rather than a “first use case,” development/test environments are essential components that translate into a stable production environment. It is best to consider development/test environments to be ongoing, rather than a one-time event.
Testing software applications, operating system changes, and hardware upgrades are essential to maintaining a stable and robust network infrastructure. To mitigate risks, changes must be tested in a development environment before placing them into production. Consistency is necessary when working between dev/test and production environments.
The process is known as change control in the IT industry. For example, our team of Houston IT consultants ensure that changes are properly tested before placing them into full production. The result? More satisfied customers and a very stable cloud network.
I was intrigued by John Michelsen’s article, and I’m glad to see other people who recognize the benefit of dev/test environments. Choosing a cloud computing provider who has a well-defined change control process is an important part in deciding among the many cloud service providers available. So, if you’re considering migrating to the cloud, be sure to ask potential service providers about their change control processes.
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