It’s impossible to ignore the effect cloud computing (also known as on-demand computing) has had on businesses across the globe in recent years. For the most part, it’s no longer necessary to access software programs on just one computer – people can easily connect wherever and whenever they are, regardless of the device they’re on.
Consider the possibilities for getting business done when all you need is a compatible device with internet access. Those worried about security shouldn’t fret – top companies providing cloud computing solutions require multiple step authentication to make sure that your company’s information can only be accessed by those you designate to do so.
No matter what size or industry your business belongs to, cloud computing can be very useful. Here’s why moving your business to the cloud should be on your radar as a top priority.
Cloud Computing Saves You Money
Businesses are always looking for ways to reduce their operating costs, and one of the top benefits of moving to the cloud lies with its potential cost savings. Unlike paying for your own corporate data center, or other costly hardware and software (including staff and other overhead costs), cloud service can help you save, thanks to:
A pay-as-you-go model
Pay only for the features your business needs, based on the time you use it (IaaS), or the memory consumed per hour (PaaS), or by users, or storage capacity (SaaS). There are many options for payment within each cloud computing software provider!
Pay-per-user plans
A great feature of cloud computing versus more traditional software offerings is the ability to pay depending on your current business scale. If your business grows and you hire someone that will need to become a new user, you can add them at a cost proportionate to their use. If you drop a user, you can easily downgrade and cut costs further.
Capital expenses
You can use cloud computing solutions to reduce the costs of IT equipment, upgrades and support by moving some of your infrastructure to the cloud. Ultimately, moving your business to the cloud also saves time, because the service provider will be responsible for the work associated with moving and maintenance.
Scalability
When it comes to hardware or software, one of the first things a business owner looks for is a scalability solution, especially in growth mode. When a business grows, they’ll likely need additional servers, additional storage capacity, and other things of the like. This can result in many additional associated costs.
Traditionally, businesses would reserve extra tools in case of unexpected growth relating to computing needs. But with cloud computing, you don’t need to scramble if your business grows suddenly, and you need an immediate upgrade on your computing necessities.
Cloud computing is completely scalable. Operating on someone else’s servers means there’s always extra storage capacity available in case you need it.
Data Safety and Security
Many consider cloud computing’s level of data security to be one of its drawbacks. Since cloud computing involves operations over the Internet, this obviously means that your data will be shared as such. Sharing private and highly confidential data can be risky. However, also considering this shortcoming, cloud computing services are still a lot safer than on-premise infrastructure.
Data collection is the backbone of a business, especially in marketing, and for measuring/computing purposes. Making mistakes when recording data, or completely losing it, can cause a headache and potential financial loss.
What makes cloud computing services beneficial with regards to your data is that it can automatically backup your data off-site, in addition to providing an extra layer of security. After all, cloud computing provider systems need to match the data security standards of the industry they serve.
Working on something, then experiencing a sudden power outage, is the greatest nightmare for someone working with unsaved data. However, cloud computing services automatically save data, so you don’t have to worry about an unexpected power outage or computer shutdown.
Portability
The beauty of cloud computing also lies in the fact that you don’t have to get on your laptop or boot up your desktop computer in order to access your data and start working. You also don’t have to worry about not getting access when you’re not in the office.
Everything you need will be accessible on a cloud computing service as long as you are connected to the Internet. This means that there’s no need to bring your computer or laptop during a business trip if you don’t have to. You can just use a smartphone or other device like tablet, to access the cloud.
Cloud computing makes work a lot easier and faster. Thanks to the ease of use, portability and cost saving, you’ll quickly realize that cloud computing services are a good investment in the long run. With its scalability, it won’t be hard to adjust with the growth of your business, no matter how unexpected or rapid it is.
Are you interested in moving your business to the cloud? For suggestions on our favorite apps for business and accounting needs, get in touch.
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