The cloud decision may be the easy part. For most businesses, the benefits promised by cloud computing—including agility, process optimization, speed to market, and cost reduction—warrant a closer look, if not a test drive. At least at the decision-table, curiosity and hope in the potential for transformation are winning out over caution.

The next steps pose the challenge. Before migration starts, cloud options must be researched, a realistic business case must be built, a project plan must be developed and implemented, and success metrics need to be established. This practical guide offers steps for moving your company into the cloud, at whatever pace you prefer.