If there’s one thing that’s been changing software technology during the past year or so, that would be the so-called “cloud”. Cloud technology to be exact, is a relatively new form of software innovation that transforms software programs into services, and not just as products.
This is a big leap from how consumers used software applications, as nowadays the same apps that used to be contained in individual computers can now be accessed and transferred through several devices within just a few moves.
Cloud technology has indeed opened new possibilities with the way consumers use software programs, as these have already become more attached to their everyday lives. But while it is the current trend in software technology, is the cloud really here to stay?
Here are 5 reasons that say it is so:
1. Virtual offices will become more accessible through cloud technology.
Virtual offices and workplaces are bound to be more fluid in the coming months due to cloud technology. This is due to the development of more cloud-based programs that allow offices to access their databases and other networks while on mobile and via file sharing. While virtual office applications were spearheaded by the likes of Dropbox, more and more programs are continuously being developed to suit the needs of online workplaces.
Many companies are also starting to embrace cloud-based applications in pursuing their daily business operations. This is because with cloud software, they are able to cut down the costs of their technological needs, which thus helps them increase profit.
2. Users are able to conduct faster online collaboration.
Back during the day, users would have to send files to each other via email in order to view, edit and conduct other necessary changes until they reach a final output. This was in a way very time-consuming, as they had to do the changes on their own first before sending it to someone else.
However, with the introduction of virtual file sharing and collaboration tools, users are now more capable of conducting online collaboration. Users can just save and get the files they need at and make their changes right on the spot.
This kind of technology has become more convenient especially with virtual offices; employees situated in different locations are able to conduct their own collaborative work. This speeds up the time to complete tasks and projects, and at the same time promotes more in-depth teamwork among members of the virtual office.
3. Cloud technology is becoming a favorite among independent artists.
Apart from being industrial and work-related tools, cloud-based applications are also becoming a fast favorite among today’s artists. This is because cloud technology’s software as a service (SaaS) applications have catered to the needs of the modern artistic community.
Among the most favorite tools that artists are using today is SoundCloud, a file sharing service that caters to aspiring musicians who want to spread their compositions. Apart from being a social network platform that allows musicians to upload their music files, this application also allows users to compose their music right on the platform itself by means of its tools. SoundCloud also uses sharing features that allow easier file transfer and downloads among members and third-party users.
Applications such as SoundCloud are expected to grow and continue in the next few years because of consumer demand. Developers and their respective companies are thus motivated to create new apps to meet this growing need.
4. Business flexibility.
Another important aspect of the continuous market acceptance of cloud technology is business flexibility. Cloud based apps are not only useful in virtual offices per se, but also for brick and mortar establishments in different industries.
Since cloud applications are easier to develop and customize, businesses are able to come up with programs that are aligned with their specific operational needs. This makes it easier for businesses to maintain optimal business operations as they have better control and monitoring of the different aspects of their company’s procedures.
Through increased business flexibility, companies are able to provide better quality of service to their clients, and as well create more opportunities for expansion and profit as they have the increased capacity to conquer new markets.
5. More and more apps are being consumed by the market.
Cloud technology has gone from being a mere trend to a technology that’s here to stay and it is because the market’s continuous and growing consumption of its end-products. The growing reliance of the consumer market on mobile apps, as well as the development of newer devices that commit to mobile technology give more room to cloud based programs, as these are the hardware products in which they best perform.
A good example of market reliance on cloud based technology is that of Google Chrome’s applications. Mobile users are now given the convenience of using the browser in different ways with specific apps, such as Google Drive, Gmail, and Hangouts, to name a few. These apps are also ideal for touch-screen devices, as they can be opened, accessed and used by one’s fingertips.
Cloud technology offers innovation, convenience and mobility, all of which make up today’s consumer market. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see businesses reach out and deliver their products and services to their target audiences through cloud-based apps, as the technology allows them to do so.
Cloud technology also promotes a lot of benefits on industry producers. Producers (businesses) are able to expand their reach with extended networking via cloud-based infrastructure which connect their offices together regardless of geographic location, and at the same time execute their business procedures using platforms that cater to their needs.
Lastly cloud technology opens better opportunities for startup companies to boost their business operations. This is because compared to previous platforms and software infrastructures, cloud applications cost lower and are easier to use, making them ideal as business tools for startup entrepreneurs.
Cloud technology and its end products are more than just a trend; because of their ability to open up better and bigger possibilities to both businesses and consumers, they are indeed expected to stay.
About the Author: This article was written by Kaylee Prentice, a freelance journalist on topics like internet marketing, consumer technology trends, private cloud web hosting for business, and much more besides. She’s a sucker for a good cup of coffee and a quiet corner to read in. When she isn’t writing she spends her time at used book stores and road trips with friends. Follow her on Google+.
License: Creative Commons image source
