Cloud Computing Migration

While everyone talks about cloud computing, we think that there is a little bit more to the story.  Cloud computing provides a real opportunity for nonprofits to reduce their IT capital investments and improve delivery by making an important change in your technology infrastructure – moving hardware and even software from your offices to the Internet.  With cloud computing, some hardware can be leased rather than purchased, and relatively cheap terminals can be substituted for expensive desktop computers, reducing capital costs.

Increasingly, powerful fundraising, case management, and financial software is available as web-based and can be leased rather than purchased, providing an additional opportunity for cost savings. In some cases, cloud computing can also reduce ongoing maintenance costs and increase the reliability of your network.  Yet, it is not a panacea for all technology troubles and a single solution does not fit all.  Cloud computing requires the kind of experience that we have at 501cTech to implement it correctly.  This is why we take a careful look at your current technology environment, your budget, and the culture of your organization.  THEN we recommend and implement the cloud computing option that is best for you. We support a variety of cloud computing options including the following:

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Many traditional applications such as financial management systems, contact and case management, and other back-office applications may be deployed more cost-effectively with hosted or cloud service. One of the most popular examples of SaaS is QuickBooks Online.  SaaS solutions offer numerous advantages over traditional on-premise alternatives including increased reliability and the use of cheaper and less powerful hardware.  One of the great advantages of SaaS is that it opens up a whole new world of software applications once affordable only to the largest companies, bringing them within reach of community-based nonprofits.  501cTech works with a variety of vendors providing Software as a Service solutions for general business applications, as well as specific needs like fundraising.  We work with you to identify the right solution and develop a game plan for leveraging Software as a Service solutions.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

Platform as a Service offers organizations scalable options for integrated software solutions, without the traditional investment in costly on-premise hardware and software.  For many organizations, this can be a real game-changer.  From business applications like Microsoft BPOS or Google Apps to comprehensive customer relationship management systems like Salesforce.com, cloud-based PaaS solutions can provide organizations with enterprise-class options at very affordable prices.  This solution can make a lot of sense for new nonprofits or for organizations that are completely overhauling their technology.  It is particularly well suited to organizations that are “virtual” or have staff spread across locations.  501cTech has extensive experience in both Google Apps and Microsoft BPOS migrations.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

For larger organizations that require highly scalable and resilient network infrastructures, without the large capital expense of on-premise equipment, Infrastructure as a Service can be the right solution. With IaaS, network infrastructures, like servers, reside in a hosted environment and technology is typically leased rather than purchased.  IaaS can replace existing network infrastructure, or it can be used to augment your existing IT systems for greater scalability and flexibility.  It is a particularly good solution for an organization with multiple locations, an existing outsourced technology solution, or a need to replace an entire tech infrastructure.  Drawing on our substantial experience, 501cTech can help you determine the best cloud infrastructure option for your organization.  We leverage our relationships with our preferred technology partners, including CSC and Rackspace, to provide you with an affordable solution.