Different models of cloud management

The cloud management model is a critical component of managing the cloud and ensuring that your organization's cloud environment is secure, compliant, and cost-effective. Organizations can choose from several cloud management models. We have encountered centralized, decentralized, and scalable models. Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to understand their key differences so you can make an informed decision about which model best fits your organization.

Centralized

The centralized model is an older and more traditional approach to managing cloud resources. In this model, the IT department is responsible for regulating all cloud resources and ensuring compliance with policies. This model is typically used in cases where the organization may not yet fully understand all the benefits of the cloud. While the centralized model can effectively prevent major mistakes, it can also limit the creativity and flexibility of the organization’s teams and hinder the full realization of the cloud's advantages.

Decentralized

The decentralized model is the most flexible and autonomous approach to cloud management. In this model, teams are given the freedom to do as they please with cloud resources with minimal centralized control or design principles. This model can be effective in fostering innovation and creativity, but it can also be risky, as teams may make decisions that are not aligned with the organization’s overall guidelines and objectives. Generally, the decentralized model is used in organizations where cloud utilization has been highly business-driven and no common rules have been established.

Scalable

The scalable model is a flexible approach to cloud management that still imposes reasonable operational constraints. This model utilizes commonly and centrally agreed technical design principles and ensures and prevents major mistakes through the implementation of Landing Zones, while still allowing teams to freely express their architectural ideas and practices within these parameters. Organizations that favor the scalable model seek to leverage native cloud benefits while maintaining a high level of security and compliance.

Summary

Based on our experience, the scalable model is the best approach for effective cloud management. This model strikes a balance between security, compliance, and flexibility, allowing organizations to fully capitalize on the benefits of cloud-based technologies while ensuring their cloud environment remains secure and cost-effective. Ultimately, the key to successful cloud management is finding the right balance between control and autonomy, and the scalable model provides the perfect equilibrium.

The original post was made 14.1.2023, this is the updated version.