Why it Makes Sense for a Small Business to Adopt Cloud Computing

A small business owner might think that a sophisticated IT infrastructure should not be a priority. On the contrary, technology such as cloud computing is a valuable resource for any small business. It allows for convenient access to company information through the internet and with reasonable costs involved.

 

Cloud computing like Azure services allows small businesses to compete with other companies by gaining access to technology that is otherwise not within their reach. In addition to this, you will find that many software developers catering to companies have also moved to the cloud. That means it is harder to find new business software that is not compatible with the cloud. So why should you resist the change? Here’s why even small companies should adopt cloud computing.

How cloud computing can save you money

Cloud business intelligence does not only upgrade the company’s IT system, but it also helps the company save on operational costs. The following are specific examples:

• With cloud computing like Azure services, you pay fewer people who will maintain your company’s IT infrastructures such as install and update software, manage email servers, and run backups. These become the responsibility of the cloud provider.
• If your company migrates to the cloud, you won’t have to pay for software upgrades and licensing. The cloud service offers a complete package which automatically provides for installation and updates.
• One challenge experienced by small businesses is the presence of multiple services and platforms. If these platforms are not compatible with each other, it can be challenging to streamline specific business processes. Cloud services offer numerous useful applications within one platform, hence, eliminating the need for multiple platforms. This solution is cheaper because you pay for the suite of applications on a per usage basis.
• You can reduce the cost of buying and maintaining hardware such as data servers. Every company accumulates massive amounts of data stored on servers. Data storage can become a pain when you keep running out of space, and you have to keep adding to the storage system. Instead of buying additional data servers, you can migrate data to the cloud and optimize the performance of your in-house servers.
• Cloud-based business applications are also updated continuously by the provider, hence, reducing the amount of work required on your part. Cloud-based apps also facilitate easier integration with most software systems.

Another notable advantage of using cloud business intelligence is the accessibility of applications using mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones. That is extremely useful for department managers who are always on the go. With online access to business apps, you can accomplish critical work-related tasks even while outside the office.

Overall, a small business can benefit from the quick sign-up and integration of cloud computing. If you want business applications up and running as soon as possible, a cloud-based service may be the solution you need. You will pay less for hardware and software; thus, the start-up capital is much less than if you have to invest in your in-house data servers and IT systems.