Over the years, cloud computing has proven itself to be worthy for most businesses, mainly because of its accessibility and convenience. Many tech-savvy companies are utilizing the cloud not only for storage but for its other functions that make business processes efficient.
Before we explore what makes the cloud a great choice for your business, first you have to understand what the terms “cloud” and “cloud computing” means.
What is the “cloud”?
The term “cloud” refers to servers that can be accessed over the internet, as well as the software and databases that run on those servers. It enables users from all over the world to access the same files and apps from any device (computer, mobile phone, etc.) because they are stored in cloud servers, which are located in virtual data centers instead of a physical server.
What is cloud computing?
Simply put, cloud computing is the delivery of various on-demand computing services over the internet. It allows users to access files and features of the system on the cloud without having to keep most of it on their own computers. Everything is run on the cloud, from storage to applications to processing power. It eliminates the need for users to have their own data centers or computing infrastructure— they can simply rent access to everything from a cloud service provider.
How the Cloud Can Make Your Business Process Efficient
Cost-efficiency
One of the great benefits of using cloud computing for your business is its cost-efficiency. Since the financial model of the cloud is predictable and economical, there will be no flat-rate fees or upfront costs.
Aside from this, using the cloud means you won’t have to purchase and maintain expensive servers in-house— as well as hire an IT staff— therefore saving you valuable money and resources.
Scalability
With cloud computing, scaling up or scaling down your operations is as easy as ever. As your business needs change, you’ll find it easy to adjust your processes with the cloud. Rather than buying and installing expensive upgrades, your cloud service provider can do this for you and more. This gives you the freedom you need to run your business smoothly and efficiently.
Flexibility
Using the cloud offers different kinds of flexibility for businesses:
- Cloud computing allows you to adapt to the market with certain flexibility that’s not possible with on-site, physical solutions. Aside from this, it also enables quick and efficient responses to internal demands. When user demand rises, cloud services can be easily adjusted to meet the demand, therefore solving the problem of over-provisioning on IT systems.
- The cloud also offers the utmost flexibility in terms of work practices. Since it’s a virtual server, you can access data anytime and from anywhere— at your home, on a holiday, etc.— as long as you have an internet connection.
- Lastly, with the cloud, you won’t have to be tied to technical problems that might come with on-site, physical servers. Since everything is virtual with the cloud, you won’t have to worry about solving technical issues or managing an IT team for it. This kind of flexibility enables you to focus on other important aspects of your business while still getting the benefits of a reliable cloud server.
Safety and security
Many companies are still skeptical of the cloud mainly because of security issues. They think maintaining an in-house IT solution is safer and much more secure than giving full control to a cloud provider. However, this is not the case. In fact, a third-party cloud provider can store your data more securely than an in-house server.
Cloud providers’ full-time job is to practice data security at all times. It’s natural to be doubtful, but a cloud host’s security measures are much better and more comprehensive than your local server. In worst scenarios, your in-house solution can be more prone to data theft or damages/loss caused by natural disasters.
Business continuity
Allowing your data to be stored in the cloud means less risk for physical damages that can happen to it due to natural disasters, power failure, etc. When all your data and resources are safe and sound in the cloud, you can access them again after an unforeseen circumstance has happened, therefore minimizing business disruptions or, worse, shutdown. This is the kind of business continuity every company deserves, and you can experience it with cloud computing.
Disaster recovery
One of the utmost advantages of the cloud is its ability to provide quick-data recovery for all kinds of emergencies, from power outages to natural disasters like flood or fire. Since your data is stored in a cloud server, not in a physical unit, it’s much more possible to recover most—if not all— files and resources after an unfortunate incident. This kind of backup and recovery solution is one of the things cloud computing prides itself in.
In addition, disaster recovery goes hand in hand with business continuity. Since the cloud offers immediate and seamless data backup and recovery solutions, your business will not be put in jeopardy should something unexpected happen. This allows for unmatched business continuity that no in-house server can top.
Collaboration efficiency
Cloud computing makes it easier for managers and teams to collaborate more effectively and efficiently. If you’re not sharing the same office, you can use the cloud to share data access to your employees, contractors, or other third-party providers. With a cloud-based platform, everyone in your company can view and share information easily and securely. This increases interest and engagement among business owners, team members, and other people in the company.
Competitive edge
Lastly, cloud computing not only makes business processes efficient, but it also gives businesses a greater competitive advantage than other companies in their industry. Utilizing the cloud provides businesses with unparalleled speed and agility that directly affects their ability to develop products and meet customer needs. With its ease of access and reliability, the cloud allows businesses to bring products and services to the market faster than those that don’t use the cloud. With this in mind, small businesses can benefit more with the cloud, as it enables them to effectively compete with larger companies and level the playing field.
