5 Straight Answers About Cloud Computing

Is cloud computing worth all the hype?

Of the last twenty years, no single technology has had a greater effect on modern business than cloud computing. Whether we’re talking about small to medium-sized businesses or solo entrepreneurs, the cloud has transformed the way many not only do business but how they approach productivity.

Yet some folk are still on the fence.

That’s understandable. When you’re used to doing business one way — and that way has always seemed to be fine — then why change?

Why, indeed?

Here are five straight answers to common questions regarding cloud computing that may make a difference.

1. Why should I switch to cloud computing?

Two reasons — scaling and mobility.

Scalability

Good businesses grow — and there is no reason to assume that yours is not a good business. For that reason, your IT has to grow with it. Traditional, growing your business means upgrading your IT equipment or purchasing new equipment outright. It also means doing the same for software and keeping track of patches and updates.

If your server gets maxed out sooner than expected, the process starts all over.

That can get expensive and bite into production time.

With a cloud provider, you pay a fixed monthly or yearly fee for only the amount of storage and service that you require. If you find yourself needing more, it’s a few mouse clicks away. Likewise, if you find yourself in the position of wanting to dial some of your storage and services back.

Your cloud usage and cost scales up or down depending on your business’s current needs. No more, no less.

Mobility

With cloud computing, your data and cloud-based apps are accessible from any secure internet-connected device. You could be working from a desktop in Croatia and easily as from a smartphone in Japan or a laptop in Costa Rica. Your access is real-time access meaning your employees can handle orders, process invoices, check stock, access important business documents, and collaborate with easy from practically anywhere on the globe.

Not big on the international angle? Consider that this mobility also allows for employees to work from home on sick days (no bringing those germs into the office) or that perhaps you, as a freelancer, can work as easily from the local coffee shop as you can from the kitchen table or home office.

2. Is using the cloud really that productive?

Part of the answer is directly related to the scalability and mobility benefits just mentioned. Because scaling your cloud usage is as easy as tweaking some settings, you have less downtime due to working with, updating, or installing a physical server. Your mobile access means employees can work from virtually anywhere there is a secure internet connection.

On top of all that lies the collaborative potential the cloud offers. Not only is file-sharing a breeze, but because cloud access is in real-time, your employees can work collaboratively on the same documents and projects and thereby cut down a lot of time in passing emails back and forth or driving to remote locations for in-person collaboration.

Finally, as far as productivity is concerned, you’ll be spending less time fixing or upgrading old or broken equipment and, instead, finishing projects and meeting customers.

3. How secure is the cloud?

When aren’t there security concerns? I’m not speaking exclusively of the cloud. An on-site server is just vulnerable — if not more so — than a remote server. You’re only as secure as your firewalls, password and email policies, and malware detection software. In most cases, your firewalls and malware detection software are going to be behind what most cloud providers offer. And as far as passwords are concerned, most cloud providers can be set to require two-step authentication to further protect your data and restrict access to only authorized users.

Your data is likely more safe on the cloud from bad actors and prying eyes than it is on your desktop computer or local server. In addition, cloud providers are constantly updating their security software and protocols. Additionally, the encryption options are often better than most off-the-shelf encryption options for many businesses.

After all, it’s in their best interest to keep you as a customer and that means keeping you confident in their ability to serve your needs and protect your data.

4. What about the expense? Is the cloud cost-effective?

Let’s add it up.

Using the cloud costs relatively little, and so long as there is robust competition for your business, the rates are likely to remain stable and affordable. Because of the previously-discussed scalability, you pay for only for as much as you need or as little as you need. In addition, you’re looking at a predictable monthly or yearly fee which makes budgeting simpler.

If you’re a small business or freelancer, you could conceivably use many of the services for free or for a few bucks at most. If you want to use a more professional level of service, that is still pretty cheap when you compare to having to purchase and maintain physical equipment. And

Which brings us to the other tally.

If you’re talking simple storage, sure… there are many inexpensive options for removable hard drives, but if you’re looking for your server to have application functionality, activity tracking, and built-in security features, you’re going to be paying out the nose for hardware, software, and possibly installation services. That’s not to mention electricity needs, occasional servicing, and eventual upgrade.

By adopting the cloud, you can shift your pricey, up-front capital expenditures to more efficient and inexpensive operational expenditures. Those savings can be put to better use, right?

5. Okay, I’m sold. So where do I start?

Do some research. Industry and business publications and websites such as Forbes, Business Insider, Wired, and ZDNet all conduct regular surveys and reviews of the various cloud services available.

Most of the major providers such as Amazon, IBM, Microsoft, Apple, and Dropbox offer many of the same basic storage features although some also have additional options such as applications, systems environments, development tools, collaborative software, automatic backup services, and more.

Take some time to compare and contrast and pick the service provider who is going to meet your needs and budget best. Don’t hesitate to ask around, either. If you have an IT team, check with them. Ask around others in your field. You could even consult with professionals.

Adopting the cloud is a significant decision to make, so don’t rush. At the same time, don’t let yourself get paralyzed with indecision. The sooner you adopt the cloud, the sooner you’ll be transforming your business into something more efficient and competitive.

Consider the above points. Talk with people. Do your research.

And enjoy the benefits.

Cheers!

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