Cloud Migration Checklist for Enterprises

Migrating to the cloud is a strategic move that can transform enterprise operations, offering scalability, cost efficiency, and enhanced security. However, without proper planning, cloud migrations can lead to unexpected costs, downtime, and security risks.

At McLean Forrester, we’ve guided numerous enterprises through successful cloud transitions. Based on our experience, we’ve developed a comprehensive Cloud Migration Checklist to ensure a smooth and secure transition.

Phase 1: Pre-Migration Planning

Before moving any workloads, enterprises must establish a clear strategy.

1. Define Business Objectives

Identify why you’re migrating (cost savings, scalability, security, etc.).

Align cloud adoption with long-term business goals.

2. Assess Current Infrastructure

Conduct a full IT audit (servers, applications, databases, dependencies).

Identify legacy systems that may need refactoring.

3. Choose the Right Cloud Model

Public Cloud (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) – Best for scalability.

Private Cloud – Ideal for highly regulated industries.

Hybrid Cloud – Combines on-premises and cloud benefits.

4. Select a Migration Strategy

Rehost (Lift & Shift) – Move as-is with minimal changes.

Refactor – Modify apps for cloud optimization.

Replatform – Adjust some components for cloud efficiency.

Replace – Shift to SaaS alternatives.

5. Budget & Cost Estimation

Estimate compute, storage, and network costs.

Factor in training, security, and compliance expenses.

Phase 2: Security & Compliance Preparation

Security must be a priority before migration begins.

6. Implement Identity & Access Management (IAM)

Define role-based access controls (RBAC).

Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA).

7. Data Encryption & Protection

Encrypt data in transit and at rest.

Implement DLP (Data Loss Prevention) policies.

8. Compliance & Governance

Ensure adherence to GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2, or industry-specific regulations.

Conduct a pre-migration compliance audit.

9. Backup & Disaster Recovery Plan

Set up automated backups.

Define RTO (Recovery Time Objective) and RPO (Recovery Point Objective).

Phase 3: Migration Execution

Now, it’s time to execute the migration with minimal disruption.

10. Pilot Migration (Test Run)

Migrate non-critical workloads first.

Monitor performance and security.

11. Application & Database Migration

Use cloud-native tools (AWS Database Migration Service, Azure Migrate).

Ensure zero data loss during transfer.

12. Network & Connectivity Setup

Configure VPN or Direct Connect (AWS) / ExpressRoute (Azure).

Optimize latency and bandwidth.

13. Performance Testing

Conduct load testing to ensure stability.

Check scalability under peak demand.

Phase 4: Post-Migration Optimization

After migration, continuous improvement is key.

14. Cost Monitoring & Optimization

Use cloud cost management tools (AWS Cost Explorer, Azure Cost Management).

Implement auto-scaling to reduce idle resources.

15. Security & Compliance Review

Conduct post-migration security audits.

Update incident response plans.

16. Staff Training & Change Management

Train IT teams on cloud management tools.

Educate employees on new workflows.

17. Continuous Improvement

Adopt DevOps & CI/CD pipelines.

Leverage AI-driven cloud optimization.

Common Cloud Migration Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them)

✔ Unexpected Costs → Use reserved instances & spot pricing.

✔ Downtime → Implement phased migration & rollback plans.

✔ Security Gaps → Enforce Zero Trust policies.

✔ Skill Shortages → Invest in cloud training early.

Conclusion

A well-planned cloud migration can drive agility, cost savings, and innovation. By following this McLean Forrester Cloud Migration Checklist, enterprises can minimize risks and maximize cloud benefits.