Data Modernisation: A Strategic Imperative In The Cloud Era

Agility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness – the often elusive but increasingly critical goals of any organisation operating in today’s era of technological evolution.

In an adapt-or-die business environment, organisations that embrace the digital wave by moving to cloud computing will reap its benefits, regardless of the industry within which they operate or the products or services they sell. In this same environment, future-proofing businesses is essential. Data modernisation, particularly through cloud technologies, plays a key role.

Data modernisation transforms how an organisation manages, processes, and utilises data. This transformation is essential because traditional data management practices are often insufficient to meet the demands of the digital age.

At Liquid C2, we take pride in being a multi-cloud business. This means we work with various cloud platforms and technologies, leveraging our cloud infrastructure that we’ve built across Africa. It also means we place customer choice at the forefront by enabling clients to select the technologies that best serve their needs. With strategic partnerships, Liquid C2 offers a unique capability: seamless integration across these platforms, providing a unified, flexible, and fully customised cloud journey. Businesses benefit from the strengths of each platform and from Liquid’s comprehensive expertise in multi-cloud management.

While Microsoft is one of our key partners, thanks to local Azure Stack deployments in countries like Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, and Nigeria, we also have strategic partnerships with other major cloud providers, including Google and Amazon Web Services (AWS). Google Cloud Platform (GCP) enhances our data modernisation efforts with its AI-driven data management and analytics capabilities. Tools like BigQuery empower organisations to process and analyse large datasets efficiently, using advanced AI to automate decision-making and drive operational improvements.

AWS supports our services through its extensive cloud infrastructure and localised solutions. AWS Outposts, for example, addresses region-specific needs, allowing businesses to enjoy the flexibility of the cloud while meeting local compliance and performance requirements.

Our cloud modernisation strategy at Liquid C2 is focused on staying ahead of the curve by reimagining business processes and achieving strategic objectives. For example, in the retail sector, businesses are integrating their e-commerce systems with data analytics to enhance customer experiences and optimise inventory management. In manufacturing, IoT solutions offer real-time operational visibility and predictive maintenance, which reduces downtime and operational costs.

Our collaborations with these major cloud providers allow us to deliver holistic solutions to our customers. They are integral to many of our cloud deployments, offering scalability and flexibility that help businesses adapt quickly to changing demands, and advanced security features that ensure compliance and protection of sensitive data. Our ability to seamlessly integrate solutions like Azure with other providers enables us to deliver comprehensive and customised cloud strategies. This multi-cloud approach allows businesses to tap into the unique strengths of each platform, ensuring they benefit from the best possible solutions across the board.

Liquid’s approach extends beyond simply offering cloud services. We also provide consultancy services to help our customers navigate their cloud journeys—whether they’re just starting, looking to expand, or aiming to optimise their cloud usage. We assess their needs, design a strategy for data migration, and ensure their cloud environment is secure and reliable. Additionally, we offer a managed service that allows our customers to rely on us for ongoing support, rather than dealing directly with the cloud providers.

Data modernisation is a crucial opportunity for businesses in Kenya and across Africa. By leveraging the capabilities of cloud technologies, organisations can streamline their operations, drive innovation, and lay the groundwork for future growth. Whether through localised infrastructure solutions or advanced database management, Liquid is committed to leaving no African behind and empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age.

This article was written by Richard Muthua, Executive Head Cloud and Cyber Security, Liquid Intelligent Technologies Kenya