Cloud Computing is the latest trend in the technology field. The old process of client-server architecture has now been taken over by the cloud solutions that is supporting the business functions with much more flexibility and cost saving.
Cloud Computing is considered as a cost effective model. Especially SME's find the cloud solutions as a flexible tool to increase efficiency in their working operation. Cloud Computing offers number of benefits when compared to the traditional in-house software.
Some of the benefits of cloud solutions that could be highlighted are:
Independent from location or computers. So applications can be accessed from anywhere and at anytime.
No infrastructure costs - i.e. capital expenditure, costly hardware or software, maintenance costs etc. Great cost reduction.
No time required for implementation. Application can be ready to run with little configurations.
No IT staff is required to upgrade, customize or maintain. Cloud solution providers or vendors are responsible for backups, updates and infrastructure maintenance.
No worries of securing data from your internal teams or ex-employees. All the data is hosted by service provider.
Cloud Solutions is an efficient platform for your business to streamline the data and procedures into one central location. It's an easy way to organize information in different departments while still allowing for company-wide collaboration.
Making a decision to choose an application from a service provider is not easy as there are thousands of companies offering great application for reasonable cost. You need to first understand your business process and your company needs. Here are few of the major guidelines that you need analyze to select a quality service provider:
Ensuring Privacy:
Data protection is the prime factor. You need to ensure that your data and information is not used or exposed in harmful ways.
Promoting Security:
Running applications or softwares on the cloud involves potential risks and threats. There needs to be be sufficient care and measures taken by the Cloud service providers.
Data Portability:
The data hosted with your cloud provider should be able to flow smoothly from one to another. In future, if you want to shift your cloud services to another provider, then you should be able to transfer the data.
Also read about Cloud Services for Small Business.