Top Cloud Migration Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Why Cloud Migration Matters
For small and mid-sized businesses, moving to the cloud can improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance security. But without the right plan, a migration can result in downtime, lost data, or unexpected expenses.
Smarter Cloud Migrations with BCT
At Business Computer Technicians (BCT), we’ve helped Seattle and Charlotte businesses migrate to Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Azure, AWS, and Cisco Meraki cloud networks smoothly — without disruption.
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Mistake #1: No Clear Cloud Strategy
Why It’s a Problem
Rushing to the cloud without defining goals often leads to wasted resources and inefficiency. Businesses end up with redundant tools, mismatched platforms, or security gaps.
How to Avoid It
Define business objectives before migration
Choose platforms (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, AWS, Azure) based on future needs
Build a roadmap with IT Consulting support
đź“– See Gartner Cloud Strategy Insights
Mistake #2: Underestimating Security and Compliance
Why It’s a Problem
Cloud doesn’t mean automatic security. Misconfigured accounts or lack of compliance controls can expose sensitive data.
How to Avoid It
Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) and single sign-on (SSO)
Ensure compliance with HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOC 2, or NIST standards
Partner with a provider offering Cybersecurity & Compliance services
đź“– See Microsoft Cloud Security Overview
Mistake #3: Ignoring Data Backup and Continuity
Why It’s a Problem
Many assume cloud platforms automatically back up all data. In reality, deleted files, ransomware, or sync errors can result in permanent loss.
How to Avoid It
Use third-party backup and disaster recovery solutions
Test restoration processes regularly
Build a continuity plan that covers outages and cyber incidents
👉 Explore Backup & Disaster Recovery.
đź“– See AWS Disaster Recovery Guide
Mistake #4: Overlooking Costs and Licensing
Why It’s a Problem
Improper license management or underutilized subscriptions lead to ballooning costs — often unnoticed until budgets are blown.
How to Avoid It
Audit licenses and user accounts
Scale plans according to actual usage
Work with a partner who manages licensing as part of Device & Asset Management
Mistake #5: Skipping User Training and Adoption
Why It’s a Problem
Even the best cloud tools fail if employees don’t use them properly. Low adoption rates mean wasted investment.
How to Avoid It
Provide hands-on training and onboarding
Roll out features gradually
Use User & Access Administration to streamline account setup
đź“– See Google Workspace Learning Center
Mistake #6: Choosing the Wrong Migration Partner
Why It’s a Problem
DIY migrations or inexperienced vendors often result in downtime, poor configuration, and hidden costs.
How to Avoid It
Select a provider with proven cloud migration experience
Look for local presence and industry expertise
Ensure ongoing support after migration, not just during
👉 BCT specializes in IT Projects & Modernization to keep migrations seamless.
đź“– See Microsoft Azure Migration Guide
Why BCT is the Best Choice for Cloud Migrations
The BCT Difference
At BCT, we combine local expertise in Seattle and Charlotte with enterprise-level cloud solutions. Whether you’re a startup adopting Google Workspace or a healthcare provider migrating to Microsoft 365 with HIPAA compliance, we ensure secure, cost-effective, and disruption-free transitions.
Next Step
Avoid common pitfalls — and move to the cloud with confidence.
👉 Start today with a Free IT Review.
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