Preparing for a Cloud Upgrade

Preparing for a Cloud Upgrade: The Value of an Adherence Audit 
Cloud upgrades are more than just a technical refresh. They're an opportunity to optimize performance, improve system stability, and future-proof your platform. But without proper preparation, they can also introduce risk, create delays, or expose hidden inefficiencies that impact your business.

A smooth upgrade starts with understanding how your current implementation aligns with best practices. That’s where an adherence audit (or conformance review) comes in.

This process identifies potential roadblocks and ensures your system is upgrade-ready, saving you time, resources, and frustration in the long run.

At NLS, we go beyond just the adherence audits and translate findings into a clear, actionable strategy that accelerates your upgrade while minimizing risk.

Why an Adherence Audit is Critical 
Cloud platforms like Duck Creek OnDemand operate in a dynamic environment with continuous updates which enable new and powerful features but may also revise existing best practices. An adherence audit ensures your system is aligned with these standards by: 

• Identifying potential blockers – The audit uncovers customizations, outdated configurations, and other risks that could prevent a smooth upgrade. 
• Ensuring system alignment – It validates that your instance follows best practices for security, performance, and maintainability. 
• Minimizing technical debt – By addressing inefficient workarounds and legacy customizations, you future-proof your implementation.

Skipping this step can lead to upgrade failures, extended timelines, and costly rework. A well-executed audit, on the other hand, streamlines the process and positions your organization for long-term success.

Turning Audit Results into Action 
An audit report is only as valuable as the strategy that follows. Raw findings can be overwhelming without the right expertise to break them down into actionable steps. 

That’s where our team of solutioning experts at NLS adds value.

We take a hands-on approach to interpreting audit results and designing a roadmap for remediation and optimization.

Our process includes: 

• Prioritizing findings – We categorize issues based on their impact, distinguishing between critical pre-upgrade fixes and lower-priority optimizations. 
• Providing clear next steps – Instead of vague recommendations, we deliver a structured remediation plan tailored to your specific upgrade path. 
• Collaborating with your team – Our experts work alongside your internal team to ensure alignment and knowledge transfer throughout the process.

How NLS Elevates Your Upgrade Strategy 
Preparing for a cloud upgrade requires more than just a checklist. It demands a strategic, experience-driven approach. NLS brings deep expertise in Duck Creek upgrades, combining adherence audits with hands-on solutioning to ensure a smooth transition. 

• Expert guidance – Our team has deep knowledge of Duck Creek architecture and upgrade requirements. 
• Proven frameworks – We use repeatable processes to accelerate audits, remediation, and upgrade execution. 
• Actionable insights– We don’t just highlight problems; we deliver the solutions to resolve them.  

Ready to Upgrade with Confidence? 
If your organization is planning a cloud upgrade, an adherence audit is the first step in ensuring a seamless transition. With NLS, you get more than a review: you gain a strategic partner who will help you execute a smooth and efficient upgrade with minimal disruption.

Reach out today to learn how our expertise can set your upgrade up for success.