For most businesses today, the question isn’t whether to use the cloud — it’s which cloud to choose. From storing files to running critical applications, cloud providers promise flexibility, cost savings, and scalability. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is right for your business?
Here’s a practical guide to help you evaluate your choices.
1. Security and Compliance Come First
When moving business data into the cloud, security should be non-negotiable. Ask providers about:
Data encryption (in transit and at rest)
Compliance with local and industry standards (such as NZ Privacy Act, HIPAA, or GDPR if relevant)
Multi-factor authentication and identity management features
Your provider should make it easy to protect sensitive data and prove compliance during audits.
2. Performance and Reliability
Downtime costs money. Check:
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for uptime guarantees (99.9% or better is standard)
Redundancy across multiple data centres
Speed and latency — especially important if your team works remotely across New Zealand or overseas
A reliable provider should have a track record of keeping businesses online, even during high demand.
3. Scalability and Flexibility
As your business grows, your cloud needs will too. A good provider should:
Offer flexible plans that grow with your business
Allow you to scale up or down without major disruptions
Support hybrid or multi-cloud environments if you’re not ready to go all-in
This ensures you only pay for what you need today, without locking yourself out of tomorrow’s growth.
4. Cost Transparency
Cloud pricing can be confusing, with hidden fees for data transfers, storage tiers, or exceeding usage limits. Look for:
Clear pricing models
Predictable monthly costs
Options for both pay-as-you-go and reserved capacity
Always compare total cost of ownership, not just headline rates.
5. Support and Local Presence
When things go wrong, you don’t want to be stuck in a support queue overseas. Consider:
Whether the provider has a support team available in NZ business hours
Access to knowledgeable technicians rather than generic call centres
Managed service options if you want expert oversight
A local presence can make all the difference for peace of mind.
The Creatipix Advantage
At Creatipix, we help businesses navigate the crowded cloud marketplace. We assess your needs, compare providers, and manage the transition so you don’t get lost in technical jargon. Whether you’re a small startup or an established organisation, we ensure your cloud solution is secure, reliable, and tailored to you.
Ready to explore the right cloud for your business?
Call +64 6 876 5575 no-obligation consultation.
