6 Reasons to Move Your Business to the Cloud
March 24 2016
If you've ever used Dropbox or checked your bank balance online, you're familiar with cloud computing. It has revolutionized the way small businesses do business. No matter if you're a tech start-up or a team of one working from your kitchen table, you can benefit from having your business on the cloud. Not only can it increase efficiency, it can be kind to your bottom line. Here are six reasons you'll want to consider getting onto the cloud.
1. It improves cash flow
You can say goodbye to those costly servers and say hello to more room in the office. By embracing cloud-computing, you also lower your IT requirements and your power usage. And because cloud providers update automatically (usually while you sleep), you no longer need to spare precious time waiting for updates to download -- and time is money. Another way you can save: cloud computing cuts the cord to your computer (see #3), so your employees can use their own devices. They get to use the laptops or tablets they know and love, and you no longer have to purchase the hardware. Budgeting and forecasting also become easier; since cloud software is subscription-based, you'll always know what your technology will cost.
2. It allows you to collaborate
In 2015, collaboration was one of the top four IT concerns of small business owners. Sharing and editing files with teammates can now happen simultaneously, whether they're sitting right next to you or in a cafe three time zones away. Another added advantage: you can better track the progress of your team so you can see well in advance when a deadline may not be met. Now you can work smarter, not harder.
3. It allows you (and your business) to be more flexible
Gone are the days of being chained to your desk. The cloud allows access from any device, anywhere and anytime. Want to check inventory at 2:00 in the morning? You can do that. Want to check your P&L while on vacation? You can do that, too (although we'd recommend you just relax).
4. It helps you integrate
By moving your business to the cloud, you can now find "cloud partners" that can help you focus on your business. Accounting, payroll, HR, and marketing are just a few of the SaaS (software as a service or on-demand software) that can now be part of your team. Even better, many SaaS providers integrate with each other making your business even more nimble.
5. It is safer and more secure
Despite some beliefs, the cloud is actually more secure than having a server in-house. Because all your important data resides on the cloud, you no longer have to worry if your laptop or mobile device goes missing. And if you experience a natural disaster, there's less downtime; you can get your business back up and running in no time without waiting for the insurance company.
6. It levels the playing field
If you're worried about competition, moving to the cloud gives you access to the same technology that was once exclusive to the larger corporate giants. Now your small business can compete with the big names because you'll no longer need the technological expertise or hardware that only more established competitors could afford.
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