5 Ways Cloud Software Can Benefit Small Businesses
As technology continues to advance, it is no surprise that new ways of doing
business emerge. Although adjusting to new technologies can be challenging
for some, companies that incorporate the latest trends and advances in
information technology (IT) will gain an advantage over their competitors.
Currently there is major shift in the computer software industry that is
presenting efficient and effective solutions to companies of all sizes: Cloud
software. Cloud-based software is fast-becoming the preferred choice for
businesses seeking convenient, affordable and secure ways to manage
important data and run business applications.
Reach for the Cloud
It is very likely you have heard of cloud computing or are using it to some
capacity at your business. For example, if your business uses Gmail, you are
currently using a cloud-based email application. Some of the biggest, most
well-known brands are using cloud-based technology, and for good reason.
Cloud-based software, or web-based software, allows you to run multiple
computer applications over the Internet, without having to install or maintain
software. This means you can run applications and access business files with
just an Internet connection and browser, whether on a desktop computer,
laptop or mobile device.
There are many ways that businesses like yours are increasing their
productivity by incorporating cloud computing into their business operations.
The following are five ways cloud-based software can benefit your growing
business.
1. Capability
When using traditional in-house software and servers, your computing
capabilities are limited to what your IT department can manage and the
physical limitations of your business space. Plus, buying new hardware and
managing software updates can be time-consuming and does not allow you to
effectively utilize your IT resources.
Cloud-based software allows business owners to run a number of
applications over the Internet, from word processing to database
management, depending on the business needs. For those businesses that rely
on the most up-to-date information, whether in sales, accounting or customer
service, cloud software allows users to access data in real-time from any
location. Cloud-based software also provides extensive data storage
capacity online. This eliminates the need to acquire new hardware and
servers.
The myriad capabilities offered with cloud-based software are available in
several unique platforms. The Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model affords
your business the most convenience and flexibility. However, there are two
other approaches that can be used for your business. Following is an
overview of the top-three:
Software as a Service (SaaS): The SaaS cloud computing model is managed
completely by the vendor. Everything related to your cloud software, from
business applications and upgrades to servers and data storage, is handled
by the SaaS provider.
Platform as a Service (PaaS): With PaaS cloud computing, you can create,
customize and manage business applications for your company with the help
of preexisting tools and framework. Your PaaS vendor will handle storage,
networking, etc.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): This cloud setup focuses exclusively on virtual data storage. The IaaS cloud vendor provides cloud-based servers, network and storage equipment, and you add the necessary business software and related application.
2. Security
Security of important data is a concern for any business owner; however,
cloud-based software can help minimize security risks by storing data safely
on secure servers instead of your server room. Since servers are not located
onsite, unexpected power outages due to natural disasters or other service
interruptions will have no impact on the security of your business data.
However, in the event that files are misplaced or compromised, most cloud-based software providers provide disaster recovery and backup to ensure
your business continues to run efficiently and without interruption.
3. Flexibility
As your business grows, your software and programming requirements may
change. Your computing infrastructure needs to be able to accommodate
your business needs seamlessly. As you know, repairing hardware and
upgrading software demands tremendous support from your internal IT staff.
Cloud-based software simplifies software implementation and maintenance
because it takes care of everything for you.
Whether your business is experiencing a spike in growth or a period of slow
sales, it is important that resources are allocated efficiently. With cloud-based
software, your business can increase or decrease computing capacities
at any time, without investing in new software, servers, or additional IT
personnel and training. It is the ultimate in convenience and cost savings for
your business.
4. Accessibility
Today business is conducted everywhere. Cloud-based software allows you
to run your business away from the office (or store) location, whether you are
on your laptop or mobile device. Since data and files are consolidated into
one place online, users can collaborate on business projects from anywhere.
Your business applications can be accessed online the same way you would
access a website. With traditional software, updates in applications must be
installed one computer system at a time. This can create interruptions in daily
business activities. With one change to an application "in the cloud," you and
your employees will automatically have access to the most up-to-date
software version in real-time.
5. Affordability
Adopting cloud-software provides your business with a low-cost way to add
new software tools - and increase storage capacity - without having to invest
in expensive computer hardware and servers. And when you reduce the
number of computer systems and the size of your server room, electricity
consumption decreases dramatically. This can amount to thousands of dollars
in savings per year for your business.
System administration and maintenance that come with traditional software
are very costly and require a tremendous amount of IT support. With cloud
software there is no need to spend countless hours and weekends on
computer and software upgrades. The software vendor actually takes care
of the software upkeep for you.
Depending on your needs, cloud software can be acquired with a monthly or
annual subscription. Other costs associated include training and additional
storage capacities. Most importantly, cloud software offers a way to
manage computing expenses without compromising on the level of service
you provide to your customers.
by: Derek Thomas
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