In our previous post, we talked about cloud computing and the different types we have. Ensure that you read our previous post so as to know what cloud computing entails because in this post, we'll be talking about the benefits that can be derived from cloud computing.

At the moment, there is over one Exabyte of data stored up in the cloud; just imagine how much that is. Until recently, the thought of storing our data in the cloud had not even crossed our minds. We only thought storing data was possible by using different types of hardware.

These days, businesses of all sizes and industries, in different geographical areas, regardless of their motivation, are turning to cloud technology.

This leads us to the ultimate question, why?

In a nutshell, using cloud technology helps improve efficiency, cuts off installation costs, operational costs, maintenance costs, and a whole lot of other business processes. Most of these are now handled by cloud services.

Let's take a closer look at the benefits that cloud offers and understand why it is worth switching to.

INCREASE YOUR BOTTOM LINE BY DECREASING COSTS

Making use of the cloud for your documentation instead of hard copy documentation helps your business save a significant amount of money. Cloud computing cuts off your huge expenses on hardware and upgrades. It also eliminates the need for setting up and running of on-site data centers. Now, tell me if this isn't kind to your cash flow. To make it better, with cloud technology your IT project looks friendlier for your staff as they will no longer have to participate in setup and maintenance procedures.

BE FLEXIBLE ENOUGH TO EASILY SCALE UP AND DOWN

Cloud technology provides you with the flexibility that will enable you to scale elastically. In cloud terms, you can scale your cloud capacity up and down according to your need. For instance, during your marketing campaign, you can scale it up as you may need extra cloud capacity. After the marketing campaign, you can easily scale down the capacity so as to reduce costs. This level of flexibility gives your business an advantage over your competitors who are still stuck in the old system.

TAKE YOUR BUSINESS WITH YOU EVERYWHERE

As long as you are connected to the internet, you'll be able to access your applications from anywhere in the world. How, you might ask? Think of it this way; your whole data is stored in the cloud, which you can then access via the use of a secured password. Your employees can use this mobility to their advantage. This is because they will be able to work on their smartphone, tablet, and laptops from anywhere and everywhere in the world. What will your business gain as a result of this? First, the productivity of your employees' will be significantly increased; your employees will also be able to work under favorable conditions as the mobility will help them balance their career and their private life.

COLLABORATE WITH YOUR CO-WORKERS EVEN ON-THE-GO

Cloud presents you with the opportunity for remote collaboration amongst your employees. They can have virtual meetings, create updates, and also share information, all in real time. Cloud shared storage enables full visibility of their collaborations. This will help you improve your customer service and product development.

RELIABILITY

You might have been able to make some investments in a great disaster recovery, but for smaller businesses, this is not very affordable. Most cloud providers are reliable enough to provide and maintain their services, up to 99.99% uptime. Implementing cloud-based recovery solutions allows businesses to take low investment risks not only in terms of money but also time. This is just one of the factors that make cloud technology reliable. Cloud ensures technical reliability as well. Data is mirrored on different servers on the cloud provider's network, providing you with the warranty on your data's back up, disaster recovery, and business continuity.

EASY TO USE

Another thing that's great about cloud computing is the fact that the servers are off-site. Cloud providers are the ones responsible for the setting up, maintenance, and upgrading of your system. They also take care of your software updates. You will be able to focus more on your core business as all the load will be on your provider. Unlike traditional software, cloud services have a user-friendly interface that enables you to take intuitive actions and make use of custom data.

Now, let's make a summary of the advantages that can be derived from the cloud: You'll be able to change the way your employees collaborate with each other, increase productivity, improve efficiency, and keep your data secured; all of these benefits are possible with Cloud.

Now tell me, aren't these benefits sufficient enough to make you consider moving your business to the cloud? Take your time to consider it.