Today, we hear more
and more about saving everything “to the cloud.”And, with all of the different
software programs that work off a cloud, the big question seems to be “Should
we work off a cloud?”We save our photos and all of our information from our
iPhones to the i Cloud, and we store and back up information and files on Carbonite
and similar back up service provides.So why not work from cloud-based software
technologies?With so many small businesses and individuals going in that
direction, now is a good time to go over the good and the bad from working off
a cloud.
What is the Cloud?
Before we go any further, it is probably a good idea to
define a cloud.The “cloud” is a fluffy (we know—we could not help ourselves) name
for a shared network.Essentially, instead of having the necessary software or
programs on an in-house server, they are stored on a cloud that is accessible
from any Hampton Roads and Outer Banks Internet service providers and shared
with many other users who access the cloud-based program via user names and
passwords.
As technology progresses, software programs are being
designed every day to work “on a cloud.”
For those who are considering a shift to computing on the cloud,
following are advantages and disadvantages as we see them.
Advantages of Cloud-Based Technologies
Working on the cloud can be very beneficial for all
involved.Following are some of the main advantages of cloud-based technologies:
Change Immediately with Needs and Demands.Whether your
business is growing or scaling back, cloud-based technologies allow companies
to change immediately according to needs and demands.Because of this, the cost
of adjusting and adding to the infrastructure is much less.
More Cost Efficient.Not only does it do away with the need
of an in-house IT professional, it lessens the necessity of buying desktop
software, additional hardware, licensing fees and more which tend to be very
costly.
Access the Cloud from Anywhere.With technology as it is
today, employees and independent contractors work for companies no matter where
they live.With cloud-based technologies, it is possible to work from anywhere
in the world as long as they have Internet access.
Disadvantages of Cloud Based Technologies
With every advantage there are also drawbacks.Following are
the disadvantages of computing cloud-based technologies:
Technical Problems.The biggest issue with computing on a
cloud has to do with technical problems.If there are technical problems (and
there will be), everyone working on that cloud must put their work on hold.Whether
caused by a system outage or being temporarily shut down for updates and maintenance,
every so often it is impossible to access.Even though it is really the main
disadvantage, it is not an issue exclusive to the cloud.Technological problems
happen on local servers,too.It is part of the game when it comes to technology
and the Internet.
Inflexibility.While most cloud-based software systems are
very flexible and offer businesses the opportunity to tailor the technology to
fit their parameters, some may not be as flexible.This issue can be a moot point
if decision makers review and test different programs to make sure they allow
businesses to add and delete users as well as tailor the programs to fit their
needs and demands.Those offering free trials, detailed demonstrations, and
customizations to fit the needs of the companies working on that cloud are the
primary choices that should be considered.
Cloud-Based Technology is an Excellent Option
While there are a few disadvantages that are important
considerations, cloud-based technology is an excellent option for small
businesses.It helps companies maintain a firm handle on their Hampton Roads and
Outer Banks computer needs by keeping their fixed expenses down along with
having more extensive IT options.
For more Contact:
8452 Caratoke Hwy, Suite 702,
Powells Point, NC 27966
252-491-8306http://www.vbltech.com/
info@vbltech.com
