There is no one-size-fits-all approach to cloud migration planning, as the specific steps consultants follow will depend on the unique needs and goals of each organization. However, here are some general steps that are often taken in cloud adoption consulting services:

1. Assess the current IT infrastructure: The first step is to evaluate the organization’s current IT environment, including hardware, software, and data. This assessment helps identify potential areas for improvement and optimization.
2. Determine cloud strategy: The consultant will work with the organization to determine the most suitable cloud strategy. This will include deciding which cloud model (public, private, hybrid) is best for the organization, which cloud service providers (CSPs) to use, and which applications and services to migrate to the cloud.
3. Conduct a risk assessment: A risk assessment is critical in identifying potential risks and challenges associated with the migration, and developing a plan to mitigate them.
4. Develop a migration plan: Based on the cloud strategy and risk assessment, the consultant will create a migration plan that outlines the steps required to move the organization’s applications, data, and infrastructure to the cloud.
5. Prepare for migration: This involves preparing the organization’s IT team and end-users for the migration. The consultant will provide training and support to ensure a smooth transition.
6. Execute the migration: The actual migration process will involve transferring data and applications from the organization’s on-premise servers to the cloud environment. The consultant will oversee the migration to ensure everything is working correctly.
7. Monitor and optimize: Once the migration is complete, the consultant will continue to monitor the cloud environment to ensure optimal performance and identify opportunities for further optimization.

Overall, cloud migration planning is a complex process that requires careful planning, execution, and ongoing support. A consultant can provide valuable expertise and guidance throughout the process to ensure a successful migration to the cloud.