Looking for a solution to deliver your native app in the cloud? There may be additional options, but below are the three most common options. Each option has pros and cons so there is not one right answer, but rather the option that is right for you and makes sense for your business. Time, cost, and expertise are major factors that should be considered before making a decision.
Option #1 – Build Your Own Infrastructure in the Cloud (DIY)
As with any Do-It-Yourself (DIY) project, if you have the time and expertise to take on the project, this will usually be the answer most will lean towards because it will end up being the less expensive route. Typically, most will lack one or the other and require assistance at some level.
Pros:
- Control over infrastructure – You control the infrastructure, so you can customize the architecture to fit any specific need.
- Control over cost – You control the project, so the cost is ultimately up to you – you don’t have to pay anyone, which should make the cost less expensive than any other option.
- Expertise – You have the expertise needed so you can build and support it without relying on anyone else.
Cons:
- Cost – While it can save you money if done right, it can also cost you money if you think you can build it and end up having to hire someone. It will cost you the time lost and the fees of the company or person who takes on the project.
- Time – Not paying someone does save you money, but it also means you will lose out on time that could be spent on other projects.
- Expertise – If you don’t have the expertise, then this option would be unrealistic because you won’t be able to customize the infrastructure.
Option #2 – Hire a Hosting Partner
Hiring a Hosting Partner is a great option for those who don’t have the expertise and want someone to help them. This option can be more expensive, but if you value an expert in this area, you’ll be willing to pay for their services.
Pros:
- Expertise – You are hiring the expert, so you won’t have to worry about having the needed skills.
- Get What You Pay For – The Hosting Partner will provide the architecture expertise and support, so you won’t have to worry about it.
- Pass on Expectations – You can pass on the security and regulation expectations to them and not have to worry about it.
Cons:
- Performance – You have no control over the performance.
- Control & Flexibility – You will lose the control and flexibility compared to building it on your own. They will most likely have a more cookie cutter approach and restrict you on what you can customize.
- Cost – While it can be a pro, it can also be a con because you are spending more to pay for the expertise. And if they are good, they will come at a steep price.
- Due Diligence – Not all Hosting Partners are the same. You will need to do your due diligence prior to selecting a company to ensure they meet your expectations or they can cause you more issues down the line.
Option #3 – Pay a Third-Party to Build the Infrastructure for You
Hiring a third-party to build the infrastructure for you is a great option for a company who doesn’t have the expertise to build it, but can support it. This option can be both good and bad. If you underestimate your ability to support it and need to hire someone, you will end up paying more than you planned. But, if you can support it, then this could be a great option for you.
Pros:
- Customization – You can customize it to whatever you want without having to worry about the needed expertise.
- Cost – You won’t have to pay an ongoing cost for someone else to maintain it. You can bring them back on a contingency basis if needed.
- Performance – You should be able to optimize the performance of your infrastructure and provide an ROI since it was customized to fit your company.
Cons:
- Cost – This option can be expensive since you are paying for the expertise upfront. If you can’t produce an ROI, it will become a costly project for the company.
- Management & Support – You will lose the control and flexibility compared to building it on your own. They will most likely have a more cookie cutter approach and restrict you on what you can customize.
- Due Diligence –You will need to do your due diligence prior to selecting a company to ensure they meet your expectations or they can cause you more issues down the line. You are entrusting them to build a custom solution. This is very critical if they have not done it before working with your company. Keep in mind, since they aren’t supporting you afterwards, they have less stake in the end product.
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