Hybrid cloud isn’t just a transitional phase – it’s the reality for most businesses. While the promise of cloud-native infrastructure is appealing, the complexity of legacy systems, on-prem dependencies and non-cloud-native workloads means hybrid cloud infrastructure is often the most feasible and flexible option. However, it doesn’t come without its challenges.
So, what does your business need to know to future-proof your hybrid cloud infrastructure? How can the complexities of a hybrid technology stack be navigated with the help of a trusted data partner?
Hybrid cloud isn’t going anywhere (and why that’s okay)
Most businesses aren’t ready (or suited) for full cloud-native infrastructure. This is why the flexibility of hybrid cloud infrastructure, especially for workloads that perform better outside of cloud-native environments, can be especially beneficial.
Beyond flexibility, some of the compelling reasons to retain hybrid setups include:
- Feasibility of full migration
- Performance of certain workloads
- Configurability of services.
In essence, hybrid isn’t a compromise; it can be a strategic advantage. Many businesses find that hybrid infrastructure gives them the best of both worlds: the scalability of cloud with the control and compliance of on-prem. When done intentionally, hybrid can reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Addressing the “lift and shift trap” & hidden complexity
Despite the promise of hybrid cloud infrastructure, the “lift and shift” concept and other hidden complexities should not be ignored. Amidst the rush to move on-prem workloads to the cloud without rearchitecting them, “lift and shift” often replicates inefficiencies, leading to higher infrastructure costs without the expected savings in maintenance or total cost of ownership (TCO).
Instead of reducing costs, businesses may find themselves paying premiums for cloud infrastructure while still managing the same maintenance overhead. Without a strategic approach, cloud migration can become a costly exercise in replication.
Furthermore, maintaining a hybrid stack introduces networking and security challenges. Data must pass through multiple domains, increasing latency, management overhead and the risk of data loss. Hybrid environments also often require more complex connectivity and governance, which can strain IT resources and reduce security posture.
Making hybrid cloud infrastructure work for innovation & transformation
Intentionality is key in the realm of innovation and transformation within hybrid cloud infrastructure. Hybrid may be here to stay, but it should be a strategic and practical choice for businesses, not a default. Businesses must assess which workloads belong where, understand the trade-offs and build a roadmap that balances performance, cost and security. With the right strategy, hybrid can deliver the flexibility, performance and cost-efficiency needed to support innovation and transformation.
The CACI Approach
With deep expertise across on-prem, cloud-hosted and cloud-native environments, CACI brings clarity to complexity, helping clients navigate and make intentional decisions about their hybrid cloud infrastructure. From rearchitecting legacy workloads and systems to optimising cloud-native deployments and scaling new digital services, we work with businesses to build hybrid strategies that unlock innovation, reduce TCO and accelerate transformation.
Whether you’re modernising infrastructure, improving security posture or enabling new digital services, CACI ensures your hybrid environment is not just functional and maintained, but optimised for the future.
With the right partner, hybrid doesn’t have to be complex – it can be your competitive edge. Contact us today to find out more.