Cloud computing involves the delivery of IT resources using a network of remote servers. Data is stored, managed, and processed by a cloud vendor rather than using a local server or PC.
The use of cloud computing is growing, and is expected to continue to develop over the next few years. There are manyreasons you should be using cloud computing services.
Cost Reduction
Capital investment is not necessary. Cloud solutions provide an operational expense model which involves paying as you go. Savings are also made in terms of staff time and therefore money. Improving efficiency also saves money in the long term.
Quick Deployment
Setting up systems can take months or even years of planning, testing, and implementation. Using cloud computing services, an organisation can be functioning in months or even weeks, depending on the kind of technology needed. The IT resources required to roll out cloud solutions are considerably less, and since cloud applications are accessed on a standard web server, this dispenses with the need for hours of training for users.
Backup and Disaster Recovery
Backing up data and restoring it is comparatively easy when data is stored in the cloud rather than on in-house servers. Cloud service providers usually handle such processes, saving the organisation time.
Information Security
Cloud service providers must adhere to strict ISO security standards and have regular security audits, increasing data security. Additionally, if a laptop or other portable device is lost or stolen, security is maintained and the data is still accessible to the user as it was not stored on the device itself.
Storage
Storage capacity is almost unlimited in the cloud, so this is no longer an issue for organisations.
Flexibility
Cloud solutions enable an organisation to instantly meet changing demand as the remote servers have a vast capacity.
Software Updates
Software updates are dealt with by the cloud service provider at no extra cost to the customer. This ensures that the system is kept up to date without the need for input from the user, saving time and money.
Document Control
Traditionally, employees had to send files back and forth via email. This means that only one person could work on a document at a time, and there would be several versions in existence, causing confusion. Cloud computing keeps all files in a central location and allows staff to work off one central copy, increasing efficiency.
Collaboration
Cloud computing allows employees to collaborate effectively and to share knowledge. It avoids duplication of work and makes working together on a project much easier. The same data can be accessed by any employee from anywhere, including at outlying sites, remotely from home or when travelling on business.
Frees Up Resources
Having fewer operational issues enables employees to work on more useful projects. There are also resource benefits in terms of economies of scale, since cloud service providers tend to use physical resources more efficiently and there is a reduction in overall energy consumption when compared to a traditional approach.
It is true to say that cloud computing allows an organisation to take care of business, leaving the rest to the cloud service provider.
