This research aims to analyze on-premises workloads, explore suitable services, and identify key users across various segments to optimize cloud migration strategies. This includes:

• Understand current on-premises workloads and unique challenges
• Identify beneficial first- and third-party services for each segment
• Determine key users executing workloads within these segments

PP&A implemented a comprehensive qualitative research strategy, focusing on two key segments:

1. US Federal entities
2. Highly regulated industries in Europe

Our methodology involved conducting a set of expert interviews with:

• Former IT decision-makers from the US Federal government or contractors
• IT decision-makers in highly regulated European industries (e.g., banking, healthcare) 

Our investigation revealed critical insights into the evolving landscape of cloud configurations and private cloud solutions:

1. Diverse Cloud Adoption:
   1. Industries showed varied cloud solution adoption
   2. Hybrid models to isolated configurations observed
   3. Universal challenges: scalability and legacy integration
2. Regional Variations:
   1. Perceptions of US-based cloud services differed across European markets
   2. Strategic investments are beginning to bridge gaps
3. Industry-Specific Trends:
   1. Healthcare and finance sectors are gradually migrating to flexible cloud solutions
   2. Driven by regulatory compliance and data sensitivity needs
4. Sectorial Dependencies:
   1. Aviation and defense sectors show ongoing demand for advanced, secure cloud services
   2. Unique operational requirements necessitate specialized solutions
5. Governmental Cloud Adoption:
   1. A trend toward cloud adoption is observed
   2. Specific needs require bespoke solutions like specialized cloud environments
   3. Stringent security and compliance standards drive demand 

• Continued demand for private cloud solutions in high-security scenarios
• Growing market for specialized cloud services in regulated industries
• Opportunity for tailored solutions addressing data sovereignty and security concerns
• Importance of understanding regional and industry-specific cloud perceptions

The findings present a strategic opportunity for our client to refine and expand their service offerings, meeting the evolving needs of sectors managing secure and regulated workloads.

Ready to unlock new opportunities in classified and sovereign workloads? Contact PP&A today to learn how our tailored research and insights can help your business navigate this complex landscape and stay ahead of the competition.