How Businesses Can Take Advantage of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has successfully changed the way businesses are run today. It has drastically reduced the overall cost of running a business (for those that know how to take advantage of it though). This article will be taking a look at how businesses that are yet to tap into this revolution, can take advantage of cloud computing.
The Concept of Cloud Computing
Cloud Computing, put in a less technical manner, is simply a setup that provides users with software and computing resources as utility. Just as a small business would likely need gas, water, VSAT connection as utilities, Cloud Computing solves the need for computing resources, allowing the user to pay for exactly what he or she needs. The services are generally provided OTI (Over the Internet), and the payment model is one that guarantees absence of upfront expenses.
With Cloud Computing, documents, files and even applications are hosted and managed over the air, or “in the cloud”, thus allowing users to access these files from any location in real time as long as they have a computer, and in some cases, a mobile device. This has helped businesses to bypass the need for downloading and installing special software for running of applications, or even buying high end computers, thereby reducing cost.
What are the Benefits of Cloud Computing?
Firstly, the major benefit of using a Cloud Computing system in running a small business is that it saves costs. Like mentioned briefly above, it brings down the need for investment in major IT infrastructures to near zero. This in turn improves cash flow for the business owner. Again, the cost of running the traditional software approach is much higher than that of going with the cloud computing approach. The reason for this is that providers of this service are able to provide shared services for thousands of individuals and this in turn drives down the cost of providing the service. The low cost of providing the service rubs off on the end-consumer, you.
Secondly, Cloud Computing makes it easier for businesses to access and handle company data securely from any location on the globe. This is very important for businesses that move lots of sensitive documents around fairly regularly. Moving these documents via email exposes them to a higher risk of interception by unscrupulous elements but hosting these documents “in the cloud” keeps it safe as only individuals with access to it can view it.
Another major benefit of cloud computing is that it removes the hassle that comes with downloads and upgrades as can be seen with the conventional in-house software arrangements. Upgrade times are usually hectic for most businesses, leading to loss of funds in some cases. Other benefits include compliance with green technology and reducing commuting costs.
Cloud Computing Concerns
One major concern when it comes to cloud computing is the issue of security. People want to know how secure their files and infrastructure are. This should not be a concern if due diligence is taken into consideration before making the decision to choose a particular provider.
Firstly, you need to ask questions about the finance of the company. If they are not duly registered, you should be concerned. Also, you need to confirm if they provide a virtual dedicated environment. You don’t want to sign up with a provider that only hosts data on shared infrastructure if you are dealing with highly sensitive materials. In fact, do not sign up with the first provider you run into. Compare services across board before making a decision.
Cloud Computing has revolutionized the business world and the SMEs are the ones that would benefit mostly from it as it helps these businesses to properly utilize their meager resources.
