There’s a good chance that most of the software applications you use every day are now SaaS applications, or “software as a service.” In other words, you don’t have to install them on your server or PC – you simply access it as a pay-as-you-go model for only the licenses, space, and features you use. This gives you the ability to access highly sophisticated software and functionality at a fraction of the cost and maintenance resources. The benefits of cloud computing are similar.
As you use more of these cloud-based office applications like Office 365, Google Apps, and thousands of other SaaS applications, it’s becoming unnecessary for some businesses to purchase and maintain an onsite server. Now companies can host one or more of their applications, data, e-mail, and other functions “in the cloud.” That simply means it’s stored offsite in a highly secure, high-availability “utility” company that has far more power and resources than you could ever logically have onsite as a small business. And with devices getting cheaper and Internet connectivity exploding, cloud computing is suddenly a very smart, viable option for small business owners. The benefits of cloud computing include:
- Eliminates the need for expensive server upgrades and allows you to use cheaper devices (PCs, etc.) to get the same work done.
- Frees you to access applications from any device and any location as long as you have an internet connection.
- Built-in disaster recovery and business continuity.
- Only pay for what you need and use (utility pricing).
While there are a ton of benefits to cloud computing, it’s NOT right for every company. Some applications don’t play well in the cloud. You need commercial-grade Internet connectivity, and some functions, like working with big graphics files, are better kept local or the slowness will make you crazy. However, in almost every case, parts of your computer network can easily be put in the cloud to save you money and give you better service. So before you donate your server and sign up for Google Apps or Office 365, it’s important you talk to someone who can honestly assess your unique situation and tell you the pros and cons of making the switch to cloud computing.
Pearl Solutions Group offers a FREE Cloud Readiness Assessment to businesses with 10 or more PCs and a Server. At no cost or obligation, we’ll come to your office and conduct a complete review of your computer network, data, software, hardware, and how you work. From there, we’ll provide you with insights and helpful answers as to how you could benefit from cloud computing.
