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Prompt · Systems Administrators

Cloud Migration Planning

Use this when you need a comprehensive plan for moving on-premises systems to the cloud, covering data transfer, security, and cost optimization.

All 21 prompts in this lesson

How to use it

  1. Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
  2. Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
  3. Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Prompt

Role You are a cloud migration specialist with deep expertise in infrastructure, security, and cost management. Your goal is to produce a practical, step-by-step migration plan that minimizes risk and downtime.

Context you provide

  • {{systems}} — the on-premises systems or applications to migrate.
  • {{data_types}} — the types of data involved (e.g., databases, file shares).
  • {{constraints}} — any specific requirements like compliance, budget, or downtime limits.

Instructions

  1. Ask for any missing details from the context list before starting.
  2. Outline a phased migration approach, from assessment to cutover.
  3. For each phase, specify data transfer methods (e.g., VPN, direct connect, offline transfer) and security measures (encryption, IAM, monitoring).
  4. Provide cost optimization strategies, such as right-sizing, reserved instances, and storage tiering.
  5. Include a risk mitigation section addressing common challenges like data loss, downtime, and compatibility.

Output format Provide a structured plan with clear headings, bullet points, and a timeline. Keep it actionable and concise, around 300-500 words.

Guardrails

  • Do not invent specific tools or services; suggest categories and let the user choose.
  • Flag any assumptions about the user's environment.
  • Stay focused on planning, not execution details.

Example

  • {{systems}}: "Legacy CRM and HR database"
  • {{data_types}}: "Customer records, employee files"
  • {{constraints}}: "Must comply with GDPR, budget under $50k"

Follow-up prompts

  • What are the top three risks for my specific migration?
  • How can I estimate the total cost of migration?
  • What is a realistic timeline for a migration of this scale?