Cloud vs On-Site Server
Cloud computing is being considered as the best option for small businesses. Cloud computing allows computers to share resources rather than having local servers or personal devices to handle applications. The term ‘cloud’ is just a metaphor to refer the ‘internet’. This means that the information and data is readily accessible online from any possible location. So instead of having a ‘network’ and computers connected to a business server – businesses can have information and data available on the ‘cloud’ which they can access from anywhere through the internet. Thus Cloud computing allows businesses to store, share and access data from Internet-connected devices. These devices are placed in a central location.
Cloud computing is considered most suitable for small and medium businesses, as it allows them to access their data through an internet connection. The past few years has seen a rise of small businesses adopting ‘cloud’ as a way to access data than traditional servers. There are several main reasons behind this.
– Communication
Cloud allows easier way to interact with your colleagues and clients. Communication is an important aspect of running a business effectively and efficiently. Telephone costs for instance can have a significant cost for a business especially if they are dealing with overseas clients. Cloud computing helps eliminate this cost by offering voice over IP technology. This can help businesses save on their telephone bills. Cloud computing also allows video conferencing which means that you can conduct online meetings with your clients without having to travel a few hundred or thousands of miles. Cloud computing also allows small businesses to host their emails in the cloud, which allows additional space as compared to Yahoo or Google. Moreover, Cloud reduces the need to send emails by offering real time conversation with clients and colleagues which is not possible using a traditional server.
– Data Sharing
Cloud computing allows users to easily assess and share data digitally. Users can access stored files such as documents and videos by using the cloud from any location. It also helps solve the problems of attaching large files and downloading them. Employees and customers can have easy access to data through the cloud and things can be accessed in real time. This specifically allows small businesses to build onto their customers by offering a modern technology based on real-time and fast accessibility of data.
– Software
Small-businesses also have to invest a significant chunk of buying software. Cloud provides an excellent answer to this as it allows all the users to access business applications online. This allows the small businesses to use free tools available online.
– Back up
Cloud allows tailor made solutions to cater to the requirements of small-businesses. Backup can be created on cloud which can save a lot of time and money.
– CRM
Cloud provides its own CRM system to manage relationships with clients, customers and employees. It provides small businesses with this most effective tool to manage these relationships and interact on real time.
There is a lot more to Cloud computing than this. It definitely offers more features and functionalities than traditional servers. Small businesses can greatly benefit from cloud but as compared to servers. It has a more modern – high tech appeal plus offers more features and functionalities. Cloud computing bring a lot of benefits for small businesses looking for a robust and ideal solution to meet their storage, backup, interactive needs.
