Intentional Design
Effective cloud architecture results from deliberate, strategic planning. Realizing the full value of cloud investments requires a disciplined approach to service selection, environment structure, and tool governance. Whether operating within a single provider or integrating across multiple platforms, intentional design ensures that cloud environments remain secure, efficient, and aligned to business priorities.
Single-Cloud Architecture
A holistic single-cloud architecture addresses all layers within a single cloud provider’s environment, including:
Service architecture – the foundational cloud services that provide core functionality and modular building blocks
Application architecture – the design and structure of a specific application, including its internal components and supporting services and integrations
Platform architecture – the overarching structure that defines and governs the cloud operating environment
Multi-Cloud Architecture
A holistic multi-cloud architecture extends cloud design beyond a single provider to form a unified, cross-cloud environment. It brings together the strengths of multiple platforms, often with each playing a distinct role, while ensuring interoperability, consistency, and centralized oversight. Key architectural components include:
- Interoperability architecture – the design of connections, APIs, and integrations that allow services and systems across clouds to work together seamlessly
- Application architecture – application environments that operate within one cloud but integrate with services or data from others as part of a broader solution
- Unified governance architecture – centralized policies, identity management, and security controls applied consistently across all cloud platforms
Strategic Architecture Considerations
Whether designing for a single cloud or a multi-cloud solution, holistic architecture extends beyond service, application, and platform layers. It must also account for the broader operational and organizational context:
Tool rationalization – Streamlining tools reduces cost, minimizes risk, and improves operational clarity. Cloud-native services often match or exceed third-party capabilities, while redundant tools can create overlap, complexity, and management challenges.
Integrated priorities – Cost, performance, and security are deeply interconnected. Higher-tier services may enhance multiple areas but also increase spend. Informed decisions require understanding how these factors align to meet needs efficiently.
Environment planning – Development and production environments should be purposefully designed. Lower-cost configurations may suit development workloads if they meet functional and performance requirements.
Taken together, these architectural elements and strategic considerations ensure that cloud environments are secure, resilient, and aligned to the technical, organizational, and business needs they’re built to support.
Reach out and let us help you align your cloud architecture with strategic, operational, and security goals.