Can you imagine your world today without information technology? In the past few decades, IT has become almost a necessity for most of us in our daily lives. And it’s even more critical for businesses to stay abreast on the constantly changing technologies and environments available. They need to constantly adapt to new trends and technologies to provide the best user experience.
Cloud computing has come a long way since the concept of an “intergalactic computer network” was first suggested in the 1960s by JCR Licklider, who was responsible for enabling the development of the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) in 1969.
Today, cloud computing has exponentially changed the way we do business. According to Gartner’s Forecast, cloud computing is projected to reach $411 Billion in 2020!
Benefits of Cloud Computing for Your Business
If you haven’t moved your business into cloud computing, it may be time to take that leap. It offers your business many benefits; essentially providing you with a virtual office to connect and conduct business anywhere, any time. The growing number of web-enabled devices available, such as smart phones and tables, allow you to access your data quickly and easily.
Let’s look at some of the many benefits of having your business in the cloud.
1. Cost Savings
Your cost of managing and maintaining your IT systems can be reduced by using cloud computing. You can use the resources of your cloud computing service provider instead of forking out thousands of dollars on IT systems and equipment. You can benefit from a subscription-based program than includes these features. You save more because you don’t need to hire those high-salaried computing experts to setup and manage your IT environment.
The following image depicts some of the financial factors are impacted by adopting cloud computing, according to a study conducted by the market research company, Vanson Bourne.
2. Flexibility and Mobility
You and your employees can enjoy increased flexibility in work schedules and practices. You can access data from home, vacation spot, at a field office, at a customer site, in transit—virtually anywhere you have an internet connection and device.
Most cloud providers are very reliable in providing continuous uptime, so connections are there when you need them. Some applications can even operate off-line. It’s also easy to scale your cloud capacity up or down, as your needs fluctuate.
3. Data Security
When your data is stored in the cloud, you don’t have to worry about a stolen laptop, or the local area network going down. You can access data in the cloud from any internet-connected device. You are also able to remotely delete data from the lost computer.
Your data is always backed up when stored in the cloud. You’ll never lose it due to natural disasters, power failures or other crisis. The data is secure, safe and accessible to allow you to conduct business as usual with minimal downtime.
4. Ease of Collaboration
Communicating and sharing data with others is a breeze when you’re working in a cloud computing environment. Just provide the involved parties (employees, contractors, customers) with access to the files stored on the cloud. This allows you to conduct meetings and discussions virtually in real time. It reduces time-to-market and improves productivity and customer service.
Another advantage to cloud computing is that all files are stored centrally so there is only one version. This helps with document control by eliminating emailing, faxing and scanning files back and forth, risking multiple versions existing.
5. Environmentally Friendly
While this benefit doesn’t directly benefit your business, per se, you can breathe easier knowing that using the cloud for your business is beneficial to the environment as well. Fewer data centers exist and operations are more efficient, resulting in less energy needed. Minimal carbon footprints, sustainable solutions, less environmental impact. Total win!
E3 Consulting to be your IT Consultant
E3 Consulting specializes in providing small and medium businesses with IT consulting support. We’ve been in the business for over 30 years, helping manufacturing, distribution and professional services businesses grow and profit.
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