Cloud based technology is something that we’re increasingly growing accustomed to. So, what is the Cloud? The cloud is simply a way of using the internet to host from a remote location, so that software can be used, or files accessed from anywhere using the internet. It may sound complicated, but it’s essentially what Dropbox or Google Drive are. The cloud is a necessary development from local storage and local work flows, allowing users to work from anywhere with an internet connection. There are many ways in which you can start to use cloud-based technology throughout your business.
Private, Public and Hybrid Clouds
Cloud technology allows the possibility to use public, private or a mixture of both types of cloud. A private cloud can be set up to just service your business, and can be either hosted by a third party, or a system based onsite. A public cloud is purely third party, meaning that it is hosted by a company, and you pay them to use the service.
Improving workflows
Working remotely has never been more interactive! With cloud-based technologies, a team can work together without having to be in the same room, greatly improving workflow. Cloud based technologies give the ability for greater team collaboration and since everything is located online, edits and reviews can be done seamlessly. As a result, improving your workflow using the cloud can help you to greatly improve speed at which work is completed.
Flexibility is also afforded with cloud-based technology, given that workers can access everything from home, providing that they have an internet connection. That means that the need for employees to be at their desk is reduced significantly. Many cloud-based services now offer mobile versions, or at least sites that are responsive for mobile and tablet users, which allow users to edit on the go from anywhere with a cellular connection.
Backup
Backing up your work has always been simultaneously essential and laborious. Running a business these days includes so much data and backing up onto physical external devices can take up time, space, and money. One of the benefits of cloud-based storage is that it takes up no physical space, is comparatively cheap, and becomes part of the normal workflow when using cloud-based software packages.
Software providers are moving towards the cloud.
Some of the most recognisable brands in software are increasingly creating or expanding their cloud-based services with their current product ranges. Adobe, creator of the creative suite including Photoshop, have already changed to a cloud-based system - Adobe Creative Cloud in 2011, Microsoft Office 365 is largely cloud based, and Google’s equivalent office services Docs, Sheets etc. are purely online and optimised to work with Google Drive. The shift is part of what is often referred to as ‘software as a service’, which is an increasingly popular trend amongst software developers. For some, using the cloud may no longer be a choice, but a necessity to keep using the software that is needed for the day to day operation of businesses.
Why should your business become cloud based?
Whilst the cloud software as a service model does have flaws for a consumer, it offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows you to be scalable and only pay for what you use, given that many providers offer several different tiered systems. Secondly, many services such as Adobe provide updates through their system at no extra charge, meaning you get access to the latest features through your normal subscription. Finally, it’s less disruptive to have a system that updates yearly, rather than having to either work with out of date software or install a fresh package from scratch each year.
Cloud based services could be the future for businesses across the world and could transform the way in which we work. Using many of the cloud-based services could even revolutionise your business workflow!
