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Cloud computing is no longer a new field in the current digital landscape. In fact, unlike several years ago when moving to the cloud was an optional business decision, today, most established businesses that conduct a significant portion of their activities online, whether they are a technology-based company or not, are almost expected to have already implemented some type of cloud storage solution due to the convenience, efficiency, and cost-savings it provides (when done right). And for those companies who have not yet made the switch to the cloud, the transition is imminent.

But moving a business to cloud storage is not something to be taken lightly. It affects a number of different components of the business itself, from information and personnel management, infrastructure, expenses, security, performance, and more. Fortunately, with appropriate research, most businesses can mitigate many of the risks that come with making the move to cloud storage. But just because you’ve read up on a few articles on cloud storage and cloud computing, doesn’t mean your business’ cloud infrastructure is invincible.

As a provider of cloud-based solutions, we wanted to know more advanced tips on how businesses can ensure a move to cloud storage is as smooth as possible, and also how businesses can make the most of cloud storage once it is implemented. To do that, we asked 37 business cloud experts the following question:

What’s the number one mistake large companies make when moving to cloud storage?

We’ve collected and compiled their expert advice into this comprehensive guide to effective cloud storage tips for businesses. We hope it will help you improve and protect your company’s cloud storage infrastructure, and ultimately take your business productivity to the next level.

Dana Marlowe

Dana Marlowe is currently the Principal Partner and Co-Founder of Accessibility Partners LLC, an accessibility and information technology consulting firm. She has gained national and international recognition for her support of disability rights. Dana partners with Federal Agencies and Fortune 500 businesses to help them test, consult, and train on accessible IT products for people with disabilities.

The number one mistake large companies make when moving to cloud storage is…

Not defining a role for accessibility for users with disabilities.

That is the biggest mistake we’ve seen not only when companies switch to the cloud, but unfortunately, many developers factor in accessibility as an afterthought. They do not build it into the developmental fabric that comprises information and communication technology (ICT).

Some of the software behind cloud computing are not coded for accessibility, and present difficulties to users who are Blind or Low Vision. They may have interfaces that are aesthetically pleasing but ultimately not usable, such as obtaining the textual information from a mobile app. Much content with the interfaces are not tagged in hierarchical order, and it can be challenging to find the files you are looking for. This is especially common with form fields (combo boxes, text boxes, pull-down menus), or anything that requires user input that is not explicitly labeled.