Planning the migration

Before moving workloads to the cloud, define scope, dependencies, and success criteria. Inventory applications, data stores, and integration points. Classify workloads by risk and complexity so you can prioritise pilot migrations and set realistic timelines.

Establish a target architecture (e.g. lift-and-shift vs refactor) per workload. Document networking, identity, and compliance requirements early. Use a phased approach: pilot with non-critical systems, validate operations and cost, then expand.

Execution and cutover

Run migrations in stages: replicate data, run in parallel where possible, then switch traffic. Use infrastructure-as-code and automation so environments are repeatable and rollbacks are straightforward. Schedule cutovers during low-traffic windows and keep a rollback plan ready.

Monitor performance, errors, and costs throughout. Validate backups, failover, and access controls before decommissioning on-premise systems.

Minimising downtime

Blue-green or canary deployments reduce user-facing risk. Database migration tools that support ongoing sync let you cut over with minimal or zero downtime. Rehearse the cutover and communicate clearly with stakeholders on timing and fallback.