If you have ever used Gmail or Hotmail, you have experienced the wonders of cloud computing, although you probably were not aware of it. Cloud computing is, essentially the use of the Internet for the use of desired software as a service. By incorporating cloud computing services, companies have access to scalable and virtualized resources that are delivered in real-time. All upgrades, applications, and data is stored using alternate servers more equipped to handle them.
Ten Reasons to Make the Switch to Cloud Computing
- Saves time. Businesses that utilize software programs for their management needs are disadvantaged, because of the time needed to get new programs to operate at functional levels. By turning to cloud computing, you avoid these hassles. You simply need access to a computer with Internet to view the information you need.
- Less glitches. Applications serviced through cloud computing require fewer versions. Upgrades are needed less frequently and are typically managed by data centers. Often, businesses experience problems with software because they are not designed to be used with similar applications. Departments cannot share data because they use different applications. Cloud computing enables users to integrate various types of applications including management systems, word processors, and e-mail. The fewer glitches, the more productivity expected from employees.
- Going green. On average, individual personal computers are only used at approximately 10 to 20 percent of their capacity. Similarly, computers are left idle for hours at a times soaking up energy. Pooling resources into a cloud consolidates energy use. Essentially, you save on costs by paying for what you use and extending the life of your PC.
- Fancy technology. Cloud computing offers customers more access to power. This power is not ordinarily accessible through a standard PC. Applications now use virtual power. Users can even build virtual assistants, which automate tasks such as ordering, managing dates, and offering reminders for upcoming meetings.
- Mobilization. From just about anywhere in the world, services that you need are available. Sales are conducted over the phone and leads are tracked by using a cell phone. Cloud computing opens users up to a whole new world of wireless devices, all of which can be used to access any applications. Companies are taking sales productivity to a whole new level, while at the same time, providing their sales representatives with high quality, professional devices to motivate them to do their jobs well.
- Consumer trends. Business practices that are most successful are the ones that reflect consumer trends. Currently, over 69 percent of Americans with internet access use a source of cloud computing. Whether it is Web e-mail, data storage, or software, this number continues to grow. Consumers are looking to conduct business with a modern approach.
- Social media. Social networking is all the wave of the future among entrepreneurs. Companies are using social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to heighten their productivity levels. Blogs are used to communicate with customers about improvements that need to be made within companies. LinkedIn is a popular website used by business professionals for collaboration purposes. Also, target groups are tracked more efficiently by tagging networks on Facebook. New advertising techniques are also being used on these sites, and businesses are seeing the advantages of assimilating to a more modern world.
- Customize. All to often, companies purchase the latest software in hopes that it will improve their sales. Sometimes, programs do not quite meet the needs of a company. Some businesses require a personalized touch, that ordinary software cannot provide. Cloud computing gives the user the opportunity to build custom applications on a user-friendly interface. In a competitive world, your business needs to stand out from the rest. Customization is the solution for this problem.
- No need for hardware hiccups.
- IT staff cuts. When all the services you need are maintained by experts outside your business, there is not need to hire new ones.
