There’s only one cloud in the sky on this sunny day, and it’s not bringing any bad weather along with it. It’s “the cloud,” a metaphor in the IT world for what we know as the Internet. The “cloud” refers to Web servers provided by a number of companies that virtually host services that may usually be hosted on a local computer using software. Similar to how one might log on to a Web-hosted e-mail service instead of using a software application like Outlook, companies utilizing cloud computing technology log on to a Web server to access their information and databases.
Let’s think about what people look for when they search for software: upgraded capabilities without much investment in infrastructure, an easy-to-use platform that is compatible with different systems, and low cost or barrier to entry. Cloud computing encompasses all of those aspects, in real-time over the Internet, extending IT’s existing capabilities. Because everything is hosted in “the cloud” on a remote server, compatibility issues are almost non-existent. As long as everyone has a connection to the Internet and an up-to-date Web browser, the work flows smoothly. And, when you access an application on the cloud, you know you’re getting the latest version; there’s no need to constantly upgrade and keep track of when the next version of your software is coming out.
One of the biggest draws to a cloud computing switch is accessibility. Instead of being tied down to one computer all the time or carrying around valuable information in a storage device, your information is accessible to you in just a few clicks, from anywhere in the world that has Internet access. As technology progresses, many providers have also developed ways for customers to access their services via PDA devices such as a BlackBerry or iPhone.
Low maintenance is another benefit to cloud computing. A typical in-house server needs to be monitored constantly and backed up to insure that nothing will be lost. With a cloud computing service, the maintenance is done for you in another location, so your information is safe and secure.
Cloud computing offers three kinds of services: SaaS, software as a service; PaaS, Platform as a Service; and IaaS, Infrastructure as a Service. While SaaS is the most popular, PaaS and IaaS are not far behind. The perks associated with SaaS products is that they are customizable by customers and requires limited technical support. The customization is easy to do and knowledge of writing HTML or CSS code is not required.
The majority of cloud computing “software” is targeted to companies looking to improve on or develop methods for customer relationship management (CRM). CRM encompasses a number of smaller building blocks such as sales force automation (SFA) or sales force management, application development, contact management and many others. These platforms deliver all of the components and let subscribers choose the tools that they need the most.
Research shows that cloud computing is more popular in times of recession because it is so cost effective. Whereas some systems can cost hundreds of dollars per user, services that use cloud computing can cost far less, even under a hundred dollars, for a basic package. For small businesses looking for something more than just the basic computer software, cloud computing can take business to a whole new level. Large businesses benefit as well; users won’t have to worry about storage capacity, compatibility or other concerns.
If you feel your business needs some sunshine in its operation and are looking to switch to something better, consider cloud computing. With its ease of use and variety of providers to chose from, you too can be walking on sunshine.
