It’s a buzzword that’s made the rounds everywhere – from hardware and software vendors to your local weather news channel. We’re talking, of course, about the cloud. In fact, the cloud is a fancy (and somewhat gimmicky) way of saying a relatively simple thing:
A software service that is accessed and managed through the internet and not physically on-premise.
That includes popular applications like DropBox, Office 365, the Adobe Creative Suite, and many more. When used effectively, cloud services can make all the difference in the operation of a business. Especially an SMB.
Here are four reasons that cloud services are ultrapopular for SMBs.
Near-infinite scalability
Growing businesses need to rely on tools that can grow as they do. Cloud services allow organizations to quickly adopt and implement new tools that can enable growth and success. And, as an added benefit, most cloud programs work on a per-seat basis – meaning that users can be added and removed as needed with the ebb and flow of the company’s operations.
Check it out: Why managed IT services are a better option for SMBs than hiring more internal staff
Enhanced security
Security is a chief concern among businesses of all sizes, and cloud services offer a unique challenge. Securing the applications is largely done on the software provider’s end, but organizations must still take care to secure data on the client side.
While this seems like a lot of work, securing the cloud is still far easier than actually securing everything yourself.
“The same way that your money is probably safer mixed up with other people’s money in a bank vault than it is sitting alone in your dresser drawer, your data may actually be safer in the cloud: It’s got more protection from bad guys.” - NY Times
A competitive edge
In the past, it was difficult for a smaller organization to throw their hat in the ring with larger competitors. Primarily, it was due to the larger organization’s tendency to simply outspend and out equip the others to become untouchable.
Helpful: Best practices to maximize your CRM
But today, it’s easier than ever to keep pace. The cloud has enabled organizations to gain level footing in terms of tools and software capabilities from the get-go. Organizations can focus on differentiating themselves on quality of work rather than pure service offering.
Remote capabilities
Modern workplaces are increasingly embracing a mobile office. To switch to this effective trend, most organizations rely on solid cloud-based services to keep productivity flowing at all times. Deploying cloud solutions means that your organization gains the ability to access their work at any time, and from anywhere.
Work-from-home employees work a true full-shift (or more) versus being late to the office or leaving early multiple times a week and found it less distracting and easier to concentrate at home. – Inc.com
There’s also more to it than simple productivity. Having a cloud-connected workplace means being able to hire from a global talent pool rather than just a local one. Sourcing talent from wider geographical areas allows companies to find better-qualified candidates for their open positions.
Related: 4 BYOD security risks you should prepare for
Utilizing the cloud efficiently
Getting in on the trend of cloud services can be tricky. Though cloud programs are largely managed on the vendor side, you still need to manage integrations, deployments, and management. Understanding what programs are best for your current and future needs is also critical for success.
Thinking about jumping into the cloud trend?
Partnering with a cloud services expert is an easy way to make cloud implementation and migration as painless as possible. Let’s have a conversation and see how we can help you leverage cloud services today.