In this episode Explain IT returns for a second season with host, Michael Bird, where he's joined by some of Softcat's Chief Technologists; Craig Lodzinksi, Dean Gardner, Dylan Foster-Edwards and Adam Harding. This episode kicks off the new year with a focus on the team's predictions for technology in 2019, separated out into our four IT priority areas; Hybrid Infrastructure, Digital Workspace, Cyber Security and IT Intelligence. Each of the guests discuss their predictions for the year, giving it a score out of 10 on how likely it is we'll still be discussing the topic this time next year.

Before you start, look at what your business is aiming to achieve so that you can select the cloud provision best suited to you, and ensure that it’s efficient.
There is no one right or wrong way to move to cloud. And there are many different cloud variations – pick one that is the best fit with your organisation’s business objectives.
The ‘lift and shift’ approach – simply moving all your VMs into cloud – probably won’t be the most efficient or cost effective approach. Think about how you plan to develop your business into the future.
Consider the applications you use – do you need to use them? Could they be used in a more efficient way? Do you need something different? Moving to cloud is a perfect time to introduce efficiencies.
Hybrid cloud is a great way to maintain an on-premises infrastructure whilst also having a public cloud presence. This means workloads can be moved over in a more organic way.
There’s a five step process for a successful move to cloud: discover, design, deliver, operate, innovate.