What is the Cloud?
The Cloud is just another word for the Internet: It originates from how techies like to draw "external networks" on their network diagrams. Over time it has been adopted by the marketing department as it sounds 'funkier' than the Internet and has now moved into "common" terminology for the Internet.
What happens is that your data, documents, software, e-mails, even your desktop get's stored in the Cloud. What it allows, is for you to access your data anywhere. Therefore, you no longer need to work from just one computer, you no longer need all of your staff to work in the office everyday, you yourself, no longer need to work from the office everyday. The Cloud allows you to log on and open up your work from whatever location or computer you desire.
According to Global Survey, it is this benefit above all others that is driving people to the Cloud.
Do I need it?
Although it depends on your business, most industries will find something they can successfully apply it to. What's great about the Cloud is the scalability: You can keep your documents, desktop and just about everything on the Cloud - or you could simply Back-up or have your e-mails stored in the Cloud. As your business grows, you can adopt more of the services but the scalability of it means you can have as little or as much as you like, which also makes it very affordable. It can also save you money on anti-virus, software, and IT Support contracts.
Another benefit is safety. When using the Cloud, your work is backed up instantly: This means if your computer crashes, gets lost or stolen, your work remains exactly where it is - ready to be accessed from your new computer. It provides a great peace of mind for you and your staff.
Is it complicated?
No, it's really simple. The set up and any necessary transition get's handled by the Cloud provider. Once it's done, you can then access your data anywhere, and know that it's stored safely in the Cloud.
Where do I start?
Decide how much of the Cloud you need for your business right now. Find out the cost and decide if the benefit out weigh's the fee (The Cloud is generally considered low cost). Research carefully Cloud providers, many of the major brands like Apple, Amazon and Microsoft offer Cloud Computing and can be very cost-effective. Make sure that you also get quotes from providers in your area, it's always an important benefit to have your Cloud provider near by just in case you need to actually speak to or visit them.
So Cloud Computing for your business: Should you or shouldn't you?
Well, you decide! I say, yes you probably should, and if you are not convinced, I predict that one day you probably will. Cloud Computing is an incredible resource for businesses, and the future of technology.
SpiderGroup IT & Cloud Computing Solutions in the Southwest: http://www.spidergroup.com/
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