Build a roadmap to leverage cloud native offerings, automation, optimization, and hibernation. Once you have moved to the cloud or are setting up a new system, look to leverage transformational offerings where applicable. For example, platform as a service (PaaS), containerization, immutable infrastructure, and services. Lastly, take advantage of programs that are available from the cloud providers like enterprise discount plans, reserved instances, pay as you go, spot instances and storage tiers.
While there are many lessons to be learned from migrating to the cloud and continuing to manage in the cloud, three lessons that stood out to us are: measure three times and cut once, just move and then transform, being in the cloud alone does not equal cost savings. The cloud is very powerful, but it depends how you utilize it. Take the time to educate yourself and your team before, during and after the migration.