Welcome to the November issue of the Network Computing Newsletter, where digital transformation and the cloud are high on the agenda.

First Jon McElwee, cloud specialist at iomart, offers a guide to modernising monolithic legacy systems by moving to a microsystems environment. "Businesses undergoing digital transformation by modernising monolithic architecture are on the right path towards leveraging the true benefits of cloud technology, but the process of getting there doesn’t need to be complex," he explains. "Working alongside trusted consultants who understand and have experience of the unique challenges posed by legacy systems, ensures any transition to a microservices environment is effective and efficient - both from a time and cost perspective." Read Jon's article to discover how you can set your business on the right route to the cloud.

We also have an opinion piece from Vertiv's Henk Ijspeerd on overcoming the difficulties of digital transformation in the retail sector. The challenges for retail are plain to see, with everything from the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of digital transactions and platforms, the ongoing cost of living crisis and environmental and regulatory concerns all continuing to put the squeeze on the sector (not to mention our pockets). Nevertheless, Henk argues that by embracing digital transformation "retailers can position themselves not just as entities in the present retail ecosystem but as architects shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for the entire industry." Read Henk's article to discover how.

Of course it's also essential to have a (literal) backup plan for when things go wrong, and so we also have an opion piece this issue from Sam Woodcock at 11:11 Systems on the vital need for essential application recovery in the cloud in the event of a cyberattack or unexpected outage.

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