The cloud has been around for several years, but many businesses are just now taking advantage of its benefits. Still others are considering it but hesitating out of concerns or a lack of understanding. If you have a new or small business, you may not see how it can work for you.
The biggest advantage of the cloud is that it works for businesses in all industries and of all sizes.
Understanding the Cloud
A lot of terminology is used in technology that many business owners and managers may not understand or pay attention to. However, it is important to understand exactly what the cloud is so you know if it offers benefits for your business.
Cloud technology allows businesses to store programs and various data on the internet instead of using a server or hard drive. It can be used for any department in an organization.
The article, “6 Steps to Establishing a Cloud Call Center”, even discusses how to create a call center using the cloud. Every department from human resources to accounting to operations can utilize the cloud for programs and data they need.
According to a report sponsored by Virtustream, about 54% of businesses use some form of the cloud either with private or public cloud options.
The numbers are expected to grow with the increase in off-site workers and mobile employees that need to access information or programs from wherever they are.
How the Cloud Benefits Your Business
Every business or organization has different reasons for using the cloud. However, one of the most common benefits seen in utilizing cloud storage is in cost savings over other solutions.
Here are some other advantages to moving a business to the cloud:
- Versatility – Businesses can use the cloud to store just about anything. They can store projects, customer data and other information for easy access. It allows them to create virtual workspaces for collaboration.
- Flexibility – With the cloud, companies can hire workers from anywhere instead of being limited to the local applicant pool. Information can be shared through the cloud so employees in different states or countries can work together. It also allows employees to locate information or use programs while they are traveling or meeting with clients instead of waiting until they get back to the office.
- Efficiency – Workers can get more done in less time with easy access to the files or programs they need.
- Cost-savings – Many businesses see the savings they can enjoy by not having to purchase on-site servers or hire extra staff to manage the information. Other savings include not having to install hardware or software updates or not making new purchases every time an employee is added.
Businesses of all sizes can benefit from cloud technology.
Whether it is to create a call center for a small business or hire new talent from another state or country, cloud storage gives a business more opportunities and a greater chance at success.
At the end of the day, any business can and should take advantage of this technology.
About the Author: Joyce Morse is an author who writes on a variety of topics, including business and technology.
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