Plan B for American cloud services

In a recent statement, the Swedish Authority for Privacy Protection (IMY) points out that they are awaiting the EU's recommendation regarding cloud services, while the corresponding authorities in Norway and Denmark have already issued guidance suggesting that organisations should have a plan B for their cloud services.

The question of how public authorities and companies can and should use American cloud services is not new, but it has become increasingly relevant in light of global developments. Rather than viewing this as a problem, it can be seen as an opportunity to strengthen the organisation's digital resilience. Here are some strategic actions that can help you take control and build a robust plan B.

1. Conduct a Risk Analysis:

Start by mapping and analysing your organisation’s dependency on U.S.-based cloud services. Identify which systems and business areas currently use American cloud providers, inventory the applications and data stored in these services, and assess the potential consequences of a change. Create a prioritised list of systems that may need to be replaced.

2. Explore Alternative Solutions:

There are several alternatives to U.S.-based cloud services, including several European cloud providers—our own Redpill Linpro Nordic Cloud being one such option. Conduct a market analysis to identify suitable replacements. Analyse how these services can be procured and implemented. Note that replacing services is rarely a direct one-to-one solution and often requires adjustments.

3. Develop a Strategy for a Gradual Transition:

A well-thought-out migration strategy reduces the risk of operational disruptions. Plan for a hybrid model—some applications may continue to run on U.S. cloud services, while others are moved to on-premises or European alternatives. Prioritise critical systems and those that pose the greatest legal risks if U.S. cloud services continue to be used. Ensure your organization has the necessary expertise to manage the transition.

4. Conduct a Proof of Concept:

Test and validate alternative solutions before a full-scale migration. Implement a pilot solution in an alternative environment, such as a regional cloud or internal infrastructure. Evaluate factors such as performance, cost, and skill requirements. Identify potential obstacles and adjust the strategy based on insights from the test phase.

5. Execute the Migration Plan:

Once analyses and tests are completed, it’s time to execute the strategy. Follow the prioritised plan and migrate systems in controlled steps. Ensure the transition is documented and that operations are stabilised after each phase.

6. Ensure a Long-Term Exit Strategy:

To avoid future vendor lock-in, an exit strategy should be part of all future cloud agreements. Include clear requirements in procurement processes that allow for switching providers when needed. Prioritize open standards and open-source solutions to facilitate interoperability and future migrations. Ensure data handling and storage comply with EU regulatory requirements.

The uncertainty surrounding American cloud services is an opportunity to strengthen your organisation’s digital sovereignty. By proactively evaluating alternatives, ensuring a smooth migration, and building a long-term strategy, you can future-proof your digital transformation. Acting now will better prepare you for tomorrow’s challenges and allow you to navigate the evolving cloud landscape with greater independence and confidence.