About Cloud Computing

Do you know what cloud computing means? Do you know how it can help you run your business, help it grow and stay up and running? If you’re like most small business owners, you’re already using cloud services. Perhaps without even knowing it. But are you aware of all the ways the cloud can power up your business?

In a nutshell, cloud computing means that instead of storing data on hard drives in your computer or on servers in your office or data center, your data is stored and managed on the Internet and accessed online. Businesses like yours often use the cloud to store and share data, or to access software.

Here are some ways cloud computing can benefit your business.

Simplicity

Your small business probably doesn’t have an IT department or an IT specialist on staff. Let’s face it. installing new software, keeping up on the latest security issues, installing patches and upgrading to new versions of software is a full-time job. Is that what you want your office manager spending thier time doing?
Using cloud-based software makes your life simple. All of those updates are handled automatically off-site by the cloud services provider. They have a full staff of IT experts to provide the latest technology.
Moving services to the cloud enables you or whomever handles IT spends less time on nuts-and-bolts maintenance issues and more time develop great ideas to grow your business. Simple.

Security

We have all heard the stories about data breaches affecting huge corporations. If big companies aren’t immune to malware, hackers and viruses, you can imagine how vulnerable your small business is. And while large companies can afford the fines and lawsuits associated with a data breach, these costs will put the typical small business out of business.  Perhaps you do think you are too small for jackers to care. Don’t be fooled. Small businesses are typically less protected from online threats, they are actually the preferred targets of online hackers. Reputable cloud services providers can help by offering far better security than the average small business owner can provide. Storing your data in the cloud ensures it is protected by experts whose job is to stay up-to-date on the latest security threats. The cloud is secure.

Continuity

Natural disasters, theft or accidents can destroy your business’s critical data if it’s stored solely on hard drives or in-office servers. In recent years, extreme weather events such as floods, hurricanes and blizzards have put many small companies out of business—at least temporarily. Between 40 and 60 percent of small businesses affected by a disaster never re-open their doors, according to FEMA statistics.
Cloud storage and backup services can store continuously updated copies of your business data and applications online, so they’re always safe from disaster and can be restored after an incident. Automated backup removes the risk of human error during the backup process, creating greater security. In addition, many cloud backup solutions offer the ability to save multiple versions of a document automatically, so you can easily go back to access earlier versions.
Of course, you don’t need your business to be decimated by an earthquake to see the value of cloud backup solutions. If your in-office server goes down, or if a heavy snowfall unexpectedly keeps you and your employees from getting to the office, cloud services can ensure your business doesn’t miss a beat. You and your staff can keep working using cloud services to keep your business up and running. We call that Business Continuity.

Mobility

Working remotely is a preferred perk for many employees these days. And, of course, busy small business owners often end up burning the midnight oil at home. When you use cloud services, you don’t have to email yourself files for later, or remember to bring a thumb drive home. Instead, you and your team can access the latest versions of your documents and data from anywhere you have an Internet connection. Cloud services are a game-changer for salespeople and others who frequently travel on  business to visit clients and prospects in person. Never again will you have to  worry about leaving the latest version of a presentation, contract or proposal  behind at your office. Mobile means you can work from anywhere.

Efficiency

Cloud-based software updates automatically, with no effort on your part. With no need for time-consuming maintenance on your end, your staff gains efficiency. Employees don’t have to sit around waiting (and not working) while your IT specialist updates or fixes their computers. And since they always have the latest versions of software, their computers are always running at peak performance. Fewer crashes and faster speeds mean your workers can get more done in less time. Efficient.

Connectivity

Cloud services offer new ways to connect with remote or virtual employees, with customers and with prospects. For example, you can hold virtual conference calls or videoconferences online using cloud VoIP technology. Cloud-based collaboration tools allow teams to view, comment on and edit documents or presentations simultaneously in (almost) real-time. When there’s no need to travel to a physical location to hold a meeting, your options for interacting with customers expand incrementally. That means more satisfied customers and stronger relationships. Stay connected.

Affordability

Cost savings is one of the cloud’s biggest benefits for small businesses. Many cloud services providers offer free versions that are often suitable for a small company’s needs. Instead of making a one-time payment for costly software, you pay for cloud services as you go, on a monthly or subscription basis. This pay-as-you-go model helps your cash flow, as costs are spread over time.
Cloud services cut your labor costs, too, since the cloud services provider handles tasks that would normally be done by an IT employee. Last, but not least, when using cloud services, you pay only for what you use. This ensures you aren’t overspending on hardware you don’t end up using, or buying software that your business quickly outgrows. The cloud makes IT affordable.

Sophistication

As a small business owner, enterprise-level software tools used to be beyond your reach. But if you use cloud computing solutions, that’s no longer the case. Cloudbased software enables you to access powerful, secure applications that most small businesses couldn’t afford without investing in expensive hardware upgrades or costly software installations. Having access to cloud computing tools can help even the smallest business look big and successful to potential customers. With the latest software at your disposal, your small business can compete on a more level playing field with the big guys. Sophisticated.

Scalability

Cloud services are a great way for small businesses to manage planned growth. As your company expands, you can easily switch to the next level of cloud services, add servers or add users almost instantly. There’s no need to purchase costly new software or hardware, because you’re just “renting” what you need from the cloud services provider.
In addition to helping you deal with planned growth, cloud services also enable you to manage unexpected growth spurts. What if your product suddenly goes viral on social media and your business website is overloaded with visitors placing orders? You can quickly solve the problem by scaling up to the next level of cloud-based services or adding new cloud-based tools.
Cloud services can help with unexpected or seasonal slowdowns, to. If business declines, you eliminate a product or service, or you need to lay off staff, simply scale down the cloud services you are using. By providing simple, affordable scalability, cloud services enable small businesses to turn on a dime. The cloud scales big.

Flexibility

Cloud services mean infinite flexibility for small business owners. Most cloud services providers offer free trials or demonstrations so you can test out their offerings and see how well suited they are for your business needs. If you like the product, subscribe to it. If you change your mind, unsubscribe. It’s as simple as that, without the need to learn a new system and install or uninstall programs. Being able to try out new technology without making a huge commitment of money or time is a big bonus for a small business on a budget. The cloud is flexible.

Clearly, cloud computing offers many advantages for your small business. Perhaps the biggest is that it enables you to focus less on IT and  more on your core business. With the flexibility and ease of cloud services,  you can move quickly to take advantage of opportunity and grow your  business to its full potential. Pi³ uses Microsoft’s Office 365 suite to help your realize the power of cloud computing. Learn more.