Is a cloud-based CMMS truly more secure than traditional on-premises software? Let’s dive into the comparison, debunk common misconceptions and see what real users have to say
The cloud is revolutionising how we work, offering unprecedented flexibility and efficiency. However, for many IT departments, the idea of migrating from traditional on-premises software can feel overwhelming. When implemented properly, cloud software can streamline the maintenance and management of your digital infrastructure. Conversely, if done poorly, your data security could be compromised.
If security concerns are holding your company back from embracing the cloud, Elecosoft is here to provide reassurance and support. Discover how we guide ShireSystem users in making a smooth, secure transition from on-premises CMMS/CAFM software to ShireSystem SaaS, unlocking the full potential of cloud technology.
Addressing cloud security concerns
It’s entirely reasonable to have reservations about cloud security. While some organisations do fall victim to cyberattacks, those that remain secure emphasize maintaining robust security measures. Furthermore, the apprehension about trusting a third-party vendor with sensitive data is common. Yet, with the right strategy, cloud solutions can offer enhanced security compared to traditional on-premises CMMS/CAFM systems.
Mitigating security risks during cloud migration
Each choice you make impacts the security of your cloud CMMS/CAFM software. Here are key strategies to mitigate risks and ensure your SaaS model effectively safeguards your asset data:
- Select an experienced cloud service provider: Partnering with a leading vendor that boasts a proven success record dramatically reduces the chances of vulnerabilities. Look for providers with strong security certifications. Elecosoft, for example, is ISO 27001 certified, showcasing our unwavering commitment to information security. We also provide robust data encryption, real-time monitoring, and thorough security audits.
- Ensure comprehensive data protection with your SaaS software: Your technology partner should integrate advanced security features into the SaaS model. Key functionalities to seek include data encryption, 24/7 monitoring, server hardening and patching, and virus protection. While it may require trust to rely on a third party for security monitoring, your CMMS vendor can often deliver superior protection compared to in-house efforts.
- Establish a strong backup strategy: The goal of cloud migration is to enhance CMMS security and performance, but sometimes issues can arise. Confidence in your provider’s backup strategy is critical to ensuring data protection during system restoration. According to Spiceworks research, 84% of IT professionals report increased confidence in their disaster recovery capabilities after migrating to the cloud.
ShireSystem SaaS operates in secure, UK-based Microsoft Azure data centres, offering enterprise-grade backup and disaster recovery solutions. Our multi-layered backup approach includes regular database snapshots and point-in-time restoration for up to 35 days. We maintain weekly backups for six weeks and monthly backups for six months, ensuring comprehensive data protection.
Misconceptions about moving to cloud-based project management software
Misconception 1:
Cloud migration is expensive – With cloud-based project management software, there’s reduced capital expenditure and IT overheads. You may have to pay for initial set-up and data transfer, but moving to the cloud means you’ll no longer have to cash flow on-site upgrades and maintenance, as everything can be managed remotely.
Misconception 2:
It’s complex to integrate cloud software – It’s a lot easier to migrate to the cloud than implement on-premises technology. To start, there’s no physical installation as your colleagues can access the software via the web. A cloud-based project management platform like Asta Vision can easily integrate with existing systems to give you greater remote access capabilities. For example, many Asta Powerproject customers integrate with Asta Vision to enable multi-site project management.
Misconception 3:
Internet connectivity restricts software access – While cloud-based software requires continuous internet access, there are ways to make it more accessible to your users. For example, Asta Powerproject customers can download the Asta SiteProgress mobile app which works with your smartphone’s 4G connection.
Misconception 4:
Storing data in the cloud is less secure – The cloud can actually protect your company from technical failures and data breaches. If you’re using an on-premises solution, a problem with the server can lead to potential data losses and project delays. But cloud-based solutions like Asta Vision regularly back-up information and store it securely in multiple locations.
Misconception 5:
Accessing data via the cloud can cause a performance lag – Data latency is not usually a problem for cloud-based applications – even those requiring high-speed computing or real-time processing. In fact, it’s often server-based software that struggles to maintain speed as data volumes increase, leading to performance bottlenecks. Cloud services can scale resources dynamically based on the programme’s need, ensuring project management software remains efficient and responsive. If computational demand increases, the cloud platform simply allocates more resources.
How easy is it to switch to ShireSystem SaaS?
Moving to ShireSystem SaaS is very straightforward; you can be up and running in less than half a day, using your existing credentials to log in.
To show you how simple the process can be, four ShireSystem customers in manufacturing, food and drink, and chemical engineering who’ve recently migrated from on-premises software to ShireSystem SaaS, share their experience.
Chemical engineering company NASA Plant Repair Services Ltd made the switch to ShireSystem SaaS in August 2023.
“We don’t have to worry about backing up anymore, which saves us time,” explains Clare at NASA Plant Repair Services. “Before we switched to the cloud, we were worried about getting backups, but we have taken up the offer to have a copy of our system, which gives us extra reassurance.”
Chris Halling, IT Manager at Montgomery Waters who said: “It’s excellent. I don’t get any complaints!” and “from an IT perspective, it’s great.” “The transition was seamless with minimal downtime needed”.
Corrugated cardboard producer, CorrBoard UK, switched to ShireSystem SaaS in 2021 as part of a broader cloud IT project.
“The on-premises version of ShireSystem ran itself, but we still needed to build tasks like performing updates into our IT strategy. It took up quite a chunk of our day maintaining our operational systems and providing support for them” explains John Watson, IT Manager at CorrBoard.
“We’ve seen the instant benefits of our cloud CMMS software being constantly updated and having new functionality, and we know it’ll be cost-effective over time and help our business move forward,” John adds.
Transitioning to ShireSystem SaaS
If you’re currently using the on-premises version of ShireSystem, you already partner with an experienced cloud service provider. Elecosoft is dedicated to migrating all customers to ShireSystem SaaS, including organizations in highly regulated fields such as healthcare, food and beverage manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, utilities, and local government.
Beyond enhanced security, there are distinct performance advantages to switching from on-premises CMMS software to ShireSystem SaaS:
- Our automatic software updates and security patches ensure your team is always using the latest version, eliminating the hassle of manual upgrades.
- We handle hosting, deploy updates, and maintain data backups, significantly reducing your IT team’s workload when it comes to managing your CMMS/CAFM software.
- ShireSystem SaaS easily integrates with other operational systems via APIs, streamlining processes that previously required lengthy implementations and customizations.
Kickstart your migration to ShireSystem SaaS today
While it’s natural to have concerns about cloud migration—especially given the recent rise in cybersecurity threats—SaaS technology can greatly enhance your security posture. By adhering to best practices for cloud security and leveraging the advanced features of ShireSystem SaaS, your team can confidently embark on the cloud migration journey, ensuring that your CMMS/CAFM software remains secure and compliant as you move into the cloud era.
Thinking about cloud migration? Download our free ebook, Busting the 5 Biggest Myths About ShireSystem SaaS Migration, and empower your organization to embrace cloud solutions with confidence.
Ready to switch to ShireSystem SaaS? Get in touch with our customer support team.
