The term “cloud computing” seems to be everywhere at the minute. Following in the footsteps of “social media” and “mobile optimization”, businesses everywhere are left scratching their heads asking whether or not they too should join in with the craze.
Cloud computing is a network that’s slowly dominating the technology industry though, with big brands like Apple and Google urging their customers to migrate. If you want to know where your business stands, it’s best to cover the pros and cons.
Benefits of the Cloud
The cloud is game changing. It allows businesses to tap on to computing capabilities that once was exclusively available to big businesses with deep pockets. Let’s just say that the cloud levels the battlefield, allowing SMEs to compete head-to-head with their bigger counterparts.
So, what are the benefits of embracing the cloud?
1. It pays to be innovative
The cloud is becoming the new norm, and if you want to be seen as up to date with the latest technologies, then you’ll want to consider it. Not only will it improve your standing as a market leader, but it will help to boost your reputation in the eyes if the customer too.
2. Your application speed will improve
All applications and processes are hosted outside of the physical business, so that you can call on whatever piece of data you need without slowing down your systems and networks. No matter how many users you have, the cloud will make ensure speed and efficiency.
3. Easy scalability, less downtime
The cloud is the most flexible data storage system, and it can evolve in whatever way your business needs it to. If your capacity needs to increase for example, it can simply draw on it’s additional servers. This feature also means you experience less downtime, because if one server drops out there are several more to take it’s place. Click here to learn more of cloud computing business benefits.
Cons of the cloud
Of course, like anything else, there are cons that come with the pros. This also true when it comes to cloud adoption. Although the cloud has gone mainstream, there are still quirks and stumbles that comes with the technology. What are they?
1. The risk is greater
If you opt for a personal server, all the connections and transactions are direct, but the cloud is external and open to a lot more attacks. Plus, you know with your own server that you can access your data as and when you need it, but with the could you’re limited by the need for internet access. If you can’t make a connection, you can’t retrieve your data.
2. It can be a minefield if your needs are complex
It might be that your business goals and priorities are more complex than the average business, so you might need to look into the possibilities of a private cloud that can be tailored to you. Companies like Logicalis provide just such a service; they will design, build, host and manage your bespoke private cloud solution, so you’ll have all of the know-how without any of the hassle.
Takeaway
When considering any cloud tech adoptions, you need to take things with a pinch of salt; you still need to be skeptical at times, simply because this very fact: Cloud solutions – no matter how robust or scalable they are – still can’t solve the cloud vendor lock-in issue – the over-reliance on your vendor, due to the way the cloud services are provisioned.
To avoid that to happen, it’s better to adopt a bespoke solution that’s limiting the reliance on particular cloud vendors. Therefore, if you want to take your business to the cloud, prepare a budget for a custom solution. It’s better than using packaged solutions that limit your freedom.
