EDITOR ’ S QUESTION

Developing an SLA involves defining services in a way that is not tied to any specific vendor , outlining how those services will be delivered , and establishing expected performance benchmarks . This level of clarity is essential for ensuring the dependability of cloud services .

A key aspect of an SLA is setting specific and measurable performance indicators such as uptime , latency , and throughput that align with organisational goals . It IS important to incorporate application modernisation to facilitate the transition of older applications to cloud environments , reducing disruptions to business operations .

Managing data securely is critical , requiring terms for safeguarding data through measures like encryption and compliance with regulations such as PDPL 2021 . This section should also cover aspects like data backup , disaster recovery plans , and principles related to financial operations , FinOPs , focusing on efficient and transparent cost management and optimisation . granting enterprises the right to audit for compliance . Utilising AIOps and comprehensive observability supports management and provides real-time performance insights .

An SLA should also include an exit strategy and transition support . Moreover , they should be adaptable , with room for updates that reflect changes in the technology landscape or regulatory requirements . Upholding data privacy and sovereignty , implementing protection against ransomware attacks , and including confidentiality agreements , are all essential for nurturing trust and collaboration between companies and cloud service providers .

To summarise , CIOs play a crucial role in negotiating SLAs with cloud vendors by focusing on defining

Developing an SLA involves defining services in a way that is not tied to any specific vendor , outlining how those services will be delivered , and establishing performance benchmarks .

SLAs need to reflect the adaptability and scalability of cloud services by outlining mechanisms for adjusting resources and detailing the implications associated with such changes . It is crucial to specify support levels , maintenance procedures , and response times and update policies to minimise disruptions in business operations . Incorporating architectures designed for both native environments and AI capabilities right from the beginning ensures optimal performance across both domains . services setting performance benchmarks , addressing data security concerns , ensuring flexibility , and establishing accountability frameworks . This strategic approach allows businesses to harness the benefits of cloud computing while managing risks effectively and staying competitive in the age . p

Penalties for breaching SLAs should be clearly defined , offering solutions such as compensation and

MOHAMMAD AL-JALLAD , CHIEF TECHNOLOGY

OFFICER , UK , IRELAND , MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA , HPE

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