As the business world evolves, many companies across the country are looking for new and affordable solutions to continue making a profit. For startups and smaller ventures, finding cost-effective ways to connect with customers and sell products and services is always a top priority.
As a small business owner, you may have heard of cloud computing – if you aren't already using it in your firm. This technology allows users to streamline data storage and file sharing using the Internet, increasing connectivity and letting employees access data from any device, anywhere in the world. As a result, companies large and small are able to save money, improve productivity and better help customers.
According to a recent study conducted by Frost & Sullivan, cloud computing has become more common at small businesses, thanks in part to several emerging trends – and these changes could be beneficial for your company as well.
Mobility, economy cause rise in the cloud
Taking advantage of cloud computing can be a fantastic way for a small business to boost its financial plan and improve its operations. Being able to access all sorts of information quickly and affordably can drastically alter how the daily job is done.
The widespread prominence of the cloud is on the rise, based on the recent Frost & Sullivan survey titled "Future of Cloud Computing Technologies in Enterprises in the United States and Europe." In fact, the results indicated that 57 percent of all cloud users define themselves as "cloud reliant," and 70 percent of the respondents in the U.S. noted that they find their cloud technologies incredibly effective.
In addition, Frost & Sullivan explained that small businesses are heavily involved in cloud computing, and this growing technological trend is due in part to an increase in mobile workers and an improved economy.
"The majority of cloud-reliant users are in the United States, particularly in manufacturing, and in businesses of 20 to 500 employees, and businesses of over 10,000 employees," said Frost & Sullivan Research analyst Karolina Olszewska. "In the future, however, the IT decision makers in the United States, the government vertical sector and small businesses are expected to show the most marked increase in cloud technology adoption."
The cloud can benefit your business
If you are looking to improve your financial plan and streamline your business banking opportunities, the cloud can be the perfect solution for your company. Many firms currently use this technology as a means to save money, cut down on IT costs and connect remote workers spread out across the country or the world.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, one of the first steps toward implementing the cloud in your company is to assess your existing expenses. For example, look at your support and management costs related to your main applications, and figure out which solutions can simplify the process and save you money. Moreover, you should also look into data storage in the cloud. Websites such as Dropbox and Google Drive are designed for this purpose, and once connected your employees will be able to upload and share information quickly and affordably.
If security is your concern, there is no reason to fear. While the cloud is based online, services are hosted on secure servers and there are few reports of issues. However, the SBA recommended encrypting your data regardless, as well as placing in-depth firewall controls and other preventative measures just in case. This way, you'll have the peace of mind knowing that your business is safe and secure while operating in the cloud.