Over the past years, cloud computing and cloud-based software have gained popularity among businesses due to the way they enable users to access data and information wherever they are. These cloud-based software are maintained by providers that feed data in real time over the internet.
There are three main types of cloud services available, known as the computing stack, given the nature of how they work together: First, there is Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) at the foundational level of cloud computing. It is used to access storage and computing power over the internet. IaaS gives you access to IT infrastructure such as servers, virtual machines, networks, storage and operating systems. Then, there’s Platform as a Service (PaaS) which lets companies access tools that developers can use to build and host web applications, and finally Software as a Service (SaaS) at the top level of the cloud computing stack, which functions as a complete application typically available to users through an internet browser and for a subscription fee.
Simply put, this technology is used to leverage virtualization to provide companies with on-demand data storage, computing power and other cloud services. Now with that in mind, here are 5 reasons why companies should make the shift from traditional to cloud powered.
Cost Effectiveness
Cost has always been one of the most important factors for businesses in adopting any kind of change. That being said, one big reason to shift to cloud computing is that it reduces upfront costs. Why? Easy. There are simply no servers to buy.
Imagine establishing and running a data center. Purchasing the right equipment and hiring technicians to install, manage and maintain the center would be expensive without a doubt. When companies move to cloud computing, they only pay for the services procured. Small businesses benefit from this as well. With a cloud-based subscription model, they are able to easily increase or decrease their use of cloud services according to their needs.
Cloud service providers charge companies based on the features, storage, number of users, time and memory space. As a basic example, cloud storage and file sharing platforms like Google Drive let users start with free accounts with a limited storage space. Paid plans with advanced features are offered as a user’s needs grow. The same goes for large companies that need a custom cloud service to operate. The cost of cloud computing varies greatly, depending largely on the type of cloud services that you need, but at the same time, you only pay for what you use.
Remote Accessibility
One of the greatest advantages cloud computing has to offer is the enabling of access to all types of files and applications from any location and with any compatible device. Employees can access their work on-the-go without any barriers of entry on tools and programs.
By having information available from a central web-based hub that gives access to anyone with proper credentials, businesses can further reduce costs by safely allowing employees to work from home and reducing workstations at the workplace. With remote accessibility, all business operations can be monitored effectively through cloud computing.
Scalability
Ensuring effective business scaling is important in this competitive era. With that being said, companies that are able to scale up or down quickly can gain the most advantages. Traditionally, businesses would purchase and keep additional servers, storage and licenses when planning for unexpected growth, but that wouldn’t be too feasible for some. With cloud computing, scaling up and down has never been easier. You can get additional storage space or features whenever you need them.
Cloud services such as IaaS allow companies to subscribe to an entire IT infrastructure. They can also add or remove servers in their infrastructure based on their current business needs, which allows for efficient adjustment for scaling.
Data Backup and Recovery
Cloud computing also provides the best business resilience. Major data loss could lead to the death of a company, and traditional computing systems require constant backup plans. By storing important data in the cloud, business owners can rest easily knowing that their data is safe even if hardware fails.
Cloud computing has an integrated data backup and recovery process that keeps your business safe at all times. The way it works is that your data is never stored in one place. It resides in fragments which are encrypted and distributed across various locations of remote data centers. This will not just help in data keeping but also increases security. In case of cybercrime attempts, your data would be unusable because it is incomplete.
Improved Collaboration
Team performance is of vital importance to ensure efficiency in handling projects. When multiple users are working on the same file, it is easy for mistakes to happen. Cloud computing has been proven to be the most effective way of improving overall team performance. Employees can access, work on and update the same file in real time despite being in different locations. This reduces back and forth communication through external channels and saves time.
Projects can be handled in a more productive manner as it eliminates redundancy and repetitive tasks such as data re-entry. Given that those files exist in the same central location, data is automatically synced on all devices, and the most up-to-date versions of files can be accessed at any time.
Next Step For You
It’s never too late to jump on the bandwagon. Whether you have little to no experience with cloud computing, or are looking to strengthen your cloud strategy, Snappymob is here to help.
As an AWS Select Partner, we are a team of cloud experts who have deep knowledge in cloud integration and migration.
Check out our work, work with us, or talk to us about your plans on cloud migration!