How is your business benefiting from going to "the cloud"?
How is your business benefiting from going to 'the cloud'? And if you haven't, why do you feel you're better off with your premise-based IT solution? I am curious as to why some business are hesitant to move to the cloud. From my experience with natural disaster, outages, etc. the cloud seems to be a no-brainer. It also seems to be most cost efficient in most cases. I would love to hear how people who are remaining in a premise-based environment feel about this subject.
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Jun 14, 2015
There are professionals running businesses the old fashion way and are still productive. Some don't see the savings or effectiveness of going to the cloud. Few other people, even me, when we travel to areas we are not sure about internet connectivity, having our own software (programs) makes a difference. Sometimes there are organizations that simply are not ready for the move. They have not dedicated the time for it, have no resources in place, and find their businesses rules, performance and overall communications could be tremendously affected by going completely online. It's not only about going to the cloud per se because small fees (sometimes), there are trainings, plan, education, directives and more external things that need to be cared for first. Proprietary rights and projects, intrinsic communication and information are at risk when going into the cloud with no security plan addressed initially.. and what about the companies that provide those services?The cloud is perceived as a 'new' not only concept but an organizational cultural factor as well that few more years from now will report statistics so much better. Few professionals and business owners, me included, think we better keep going to the cloud using services that help leverage our work and team performances than completely relying on systems that may compromise the continuity of our businesses. I use a couple of services on the cloud, I cannot simply completely rely on them in which backups play hard. Just my thoughts.
Jun 12, 2015
I have my payments system, Wave, in the cloud, and have recently taken Microsoft Offiice into the cloud. Only one I object to is Adobe - because it is so pricey per month. I would prefer to have the software in my hands, so in case I wind up not being able to continue with them in the cloud, at least I have the software on my computer. I'd rather have it anywhere anyway. Backing up on a regular basis will help you as well.
Jun 12, 2015
I've been doing cloud since we called to timeshare.
Often, the problem is data security. Will sensitive data, the ability to comply with new rules in a timely manner is a legal issue. I can change my internal setup. With the could, I have to wait for someone else to (A) decide it is worth it to them to make the change, and (B) actually do the work.
The next issue is: Will you be there tomorrow? If my cloud provider decides to exit that business, or is forced out, or goes belly-up, I may have a migrate on no notice. Or, I might be locked out of my data.
Having said all that. I do use cloud, where appropriate.
Jun 15, 2015
A key benefit is real time collaboration . Many traditional businesses need a real push from those they trust. This involves training, education and major overhauls on how they do business.
May 21, 2020
Hi, Tara!
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Share the link for u, need 2 know!
Aug 13, 2015
What do you mean by "cloud"? Without specifics, any answer is meaningless.
Sep 24, 2020
5 biggest benefits of moving to the cloud-
1) Boosts cost efficiency.
Cloud computing reduces or eliminates the need for businesses to purchase equipment and build out and operate data centers. This presents a significant savings on hardware, facilities, utilities and other expenses required from traditional computing.
2) Provides flexible pay options
Most cloud computing programs and applications — ranging from ERP and CRM to creativity and productivity suites — use a subscription-based model. This allows businesses to scale up or down according to their needs and budget.
3) Promotes collaboration
Cloud-based workflow and file-sharing applications give dispersed teams of people the ability to work together more easily and efficiently. Staff can make real-time updates, see what other team members are doing and communicate effectively.
4) Increases mobility
One of the advantages of cloud computing for businesses is how easily team members can work from anywhere. This is particularly valuable in an era when employees desire flexibility in their schedules and work environment.
5) Aids disaster recovery
Hosting systems and storing documents on the cloud provides a smart safeguard in case of an emergency. Man-made and natural disasters can damage equipment, shut off power and incapacitate critical IT functions.
Nov 6, 2020
A wide range of companies have already considered cloud opportunities, so it indeed became a certain type of trend, I agree. But I also agree with the statement that nothing is perfect. In my answer I would like to observe the main benefits cloud services have and in what cases cloud computing wouldn’t be a good match.
Let’s start with its advantages:
- Cloud services provide small businesses with enough space for faster promotion by means of implementing high-quality technologies. Before it was affordable exclusively to enterprises;
In contrast to on-premise, cloud allows easier and mobile ways of disaster recovery without necessity of physical presence;
- Cloud computing makes colleagues' collaboration between each other more convenient. Thus, they can work documents in real time as well as receive updates;
- Reduced environmental footprint is the main attractor for businesses. It works excellent in both ways: less harmful impact on the environment and significantly decreased energy consumption. So this factor is a good budget saver.
I would continue the list of cons, but I suspect cloud disadvantages is a relevant topic too:
- Permanent Internet connection is a must for cloud. In cases of connectivity loss there is a probability that stability of any business operations can be put under threat. Sure, it’s always not cool to be dependent on something;
- You have to be confident in proper configuration, as if there are certain misconfigurations, be ready for security risks;
- Cloud computing differs with high costs.
Anyhow, there is always a way out, so I recommend you to get acquainted with this article, which aims to show that with the right approach it’s real to manage cloud costs and optimize cloud infrastructure.