The Benefits Of Cloud Computing For SMEs
Businesses of all sizes rely on computers for everything from communication to software utilization to setting up databases. The cloud is a new innovation in computing which has revolutionized the way we use data in recent years. Many SMEs have opted against the cloud because of misconceptions about cost and relevance to their business but by utilizing cloud server technology they can put themselves on a level playing field with larger businesses. Cloud computing allows members of a company to work whenever, wherever from any device but there are a multitude of other advantages of cloud computing for small to medium businesses.
Versatility And Flexibility
Allowing your staff to work from anywhere there’s an internet connection means work is no longer limited to between the hours of 9 and 5. You can share and receive files and data securely from any location so whether you’re on the train on a lengthy commute, sitting in your living room or working through lunch in a restaurant you still have full access to your business.
The elasticity of the cloud means you can increase and decrease your bandwidth as and when you need it so you are only paying for what you need and you are never at a loss. Remote servers have a huge capacity for you to utilise as you see fit and the majority of business owners site the ability to meet business demands quickly as their number one reason for switching to the cloud.
Cost Effective
When you turn to the cloud the cost of hardware, software and licence fees is taken on by the application developer, not your business. You can also save yourself the cost of hiring your own in-house IT expert as you have the benefit of external IT support that keeps an eye on your systems and applications for you.
Many SMEs forgo hiring an expert in IT to keep down costs, instead choosing to promote an existing member of staff who lacks the proper training and qualifications. By outsourcing your support you can ensure your business is being looked after by a professional eye that can catch small problems before they turn into big ones, saving you money and downtime.
Disaster Avoidance
With cloud based services a provider such as GCC Innova takes care of any disaster recovery on your behalf as well as helping you to avoid many IT related problems which can put a huge financial strain on SMEs. Downtime is detrimental to SMEs who don’t have the same financial safety net of big business so having a provider who is able to take care of issues better and faster than you has a real and positive impact.
Experts suggest that businesses who take advantage of cloud based servers find their issues are resolved around 4 times faster than those who do not with medium sized businesses having the quickest resolution rate.
Innovative Automatic Updates
Keeping an eye on and updating systems is a full time job, trying to take on the task alongside other work responsibilities means key elements are likely to be overlooked. Outsourcing your server maintenance to your cloud computing suppliers means your updates take care of themselves and you don’t have to shell out on new software in a few years when yours becomes obsolete, which means you have more time and money to focus on what you do best.
Speedy Service
Cloud computing is immediate. The technology is already there so as soon as you have come to an agreement with your provider your system can be up and running without the time it would take you to set up your hardware and software alone, so you can crack on with work ASAP.
Cloud services are taking the US by storm, now is the time for your business to feel the benefit. Cloud computing can bring your business into the new year with the latest technology that will streamline your business and liberate your workforce so you can become more productive and reduce costs on one fell swoop.
