An increasing number of public sector entities are adopting cloud computing to enhance their overall security posture, resilience, and efficiency. But a lift-and-shift migration strategy is insufficient to fully leverage cloud computing in your organization. To overcome obstacles and advance your goal, you need cloud workers and a public sector cloud strategy.
Four problems facing public sector cloud computing
For public sector firms to successfully utilize cloud computing, there are four key obstacles. You can overcome obstacles in your organization by recognizing what they are.
1. Requirements for security and compliance
For public sector firms, security and compliance are nothing new, whether they are mandated by HIPAA, PCI DSS, NIST, FedRAMP, or another regulation. Regardless of your level of experience with different compliance frameworks, moving to the cloud requires you to navigate new rules while maintaining security requirements.
2. Insufficient cloud workers
When it comes to tech skills, the public sector has historically found it difficult to compete with the private sector. And it still isn't different.
Because of the tech industry's layoffs, more tech talent is entering the market, but government agencies still have trouble finding and keeping cloud engineers. Why? Lack of flexibility, less competitive perks, and convoluted hiring procedures are frequently at the top of the list.
However, outdated technological systems also provide a significant obstacle. Many cloud workers don't want to deal with the legacy systems that are used by public sector businesses because they want to stay on the leading edge and don't have the necessary skills.
3. Purchasing cloud services that adhere to the terms of contracts with the public sector
The price approach for cloud computing services is pay-as-you-go. This enables organizations to scale their cloud services up or down to suit their demands at the moment.
Indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts are a useful tool for public sector businesses looking to engage in metered services like cloud computing. But setting up these contracts can be expensive and time-consuming.
IDIQ contracts are complicated, so even if you can handle them, your agency can come under investigation for the cloud service providers you choose to award those contracts to.
4. Spending on legacy infrastructure
Despite the trend toward cloud computing, public sector organizations—including the federal government—retain a high priority on legacy, on-premises systems.
It's interesting to note that while 54% of CIOs in the public sector predicted more cloud spending by the start of 2022, just 35% predicted lower spending on data center and legacy infrastructure. Agencies won't see complete cloud transition as long as they emphasize antiquated systems.
Here are seven opportunities in cloud computing for the public sector
1. Utilize the shared responsibility model: Cloud service providers follow a shared responsibility model, dividing infrastructure responsibilities between them and individual organizations. Understanding this model allows for better resource allocation, such as focusing technologists on critical areas like cybersecurity.
2. Enhance regulatory compliance: Compliance frameworks ensure adherence to regulations. By examining cloud providers' compliance documentation, agencies can ensure services meet necessary requirements under frameworks like FedRAMP and StateRAMP.
3. Adopt continuous Authority to Operate (cATO): Instead of the traditional linear authorization process, cATO allows for ongoing authorization of cloud infrastructure, enabling agencies to concentrate on capability delivery rather than repeated authorization efforts.
4. Facilitate remote work: The shift to remote or hybrid work due to events like the COVID-19 pandemic underscores the importance of cloud solutions for enabling remote work. This not only widens the talent pool but also offers potential cost savings.
5. Address the cloud skills gap: With only half of technologists having extensive cloud experience, upskilling existing staff is essential. Utilizing various learning resources and training programs can help develop cloud expertise within the workforce.
6. Drive mission-critical outcomes: Despite budget constraints, public sector organizations lead in mission impact. Cloud engineers play a vital role in initiatives like the U.S. Army's Enterprise Cloud Management Office and the U.S. Air Force's Platform One, contributing significantly to national defense.
7. Expedite cloud solution acquisition: Navigating regulations associated with acquiring cloud technologies can be challenging. Leveraging already-established acquisition guides and frameworks created by experienced organizations can streamline the acquisition process. Examples include the Requirements for the Acquisition of Digital Capabilities Guidebook and Adaptive Acquisition Frameworks.
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