Just a few years back, companies were still trying to wrap their heads around what “The Cloud” actually was, and today, 90% of companies use the cloud for at least one application.
What the cloud has become is the new standard for powering business workflows and a tool that helps level the playing field for small businesses due to the cost efficiency and increased productivity that it offers.
And from managed IT services to data security, cloud computing has improved efficiencies across all parts of the technology infrastructure and helped companies that use it intelligently gain a competitive edge on their competition.
Has your company fully transitioned to the cloud?
If not, you may want to consider it a goal for the near future. When you’re able to get the right data to the right people at the right time, it can make all the difference.
Why It’s Important to Consider a Cloud Transition
There are generally two main levels of a full cloud transition for a company. One of those is through cloud-based platforms like QuickBooks Online or Microsoft 365. Where you can access your data and applications from anywhere, on any device, making your workflow more mobile and flexible.
The other step is to entirely virtualize your desktops, by hosting your PC environment on a cloud-base server, such as Microsoft’s new Windows Virtual Desktop. This makes your entire PC environment accessible from any device, including software, settings, and files.
This is going to be a step many companies will be taking in the near future to fully transition their office to the cloud and cut any last ties that keep them bound to a specific piece of computer hardware or location.
83% of enterprise workloads are expected to be completely cloud-based in 2020.
What are the advantages of moving your business to the cloud? Here are several to consider.
Real-time Collaboration
While email revolutionized office communications at the end of the 20th century, it’s now become inefficient and laborious. Just searching through an inbox for an important message and trying to avoid spam and phishing emails can take up a good portion of a workday.
Cloud-based platforms allow a more efficient method of communications in real time that also enables instant file sharing. If someone is out on a sales call and you need an important question answered, cloud apps can instantly alert them and give them the ability to text you back the answer in a matter of seconds.
Your Documents Available from Any Device
One frustration with many that work from both home and work computers is having to email files back and forth to themselves. The same is true if you’re getting ready to travel for business. It can take half a day just setting up your email and the files you need on a laptop, then more time when you get back to update the files on your other computer.
Cloud computing means your documents are available to you on any device, from anywhere. Instead of having to email yourself files, you can just login from another device, make the changes you need, and all devices now have the update file revision.
If you’re using desktop virtualization, your computer literally goes with you wherever you are (without the need to carry it!) and you can access your virtual computer from any desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
No Longer Need a VPN
If you’re paying for a VPN service to ensure your physical computers can connect securely to a network, you can eliminate this expense by moving to the cloud. Cloud providers employ several cybersecurity standards to keep your data and logins secure, including use of multi-factor authentication, encryption, and the ability to set specific security policies and authentication standards.
Save Money & Scale Resources as You Go
Cloud computing gives you the ability to be much more nimble and avoid huge cost outlays up front for your technology hardware. You can purchase exactly the number of users (or “seats”) you need and adjust them up or down as needed.
The affordability of cloud systems like VoIP as compared to landline PBX phone systems, which can provide a savings of 50% or more in phone costs, is just one example of the significant cost savings that cloud services offer companies of all sizes and that are especially helpful for small businesses.
Increase Your Talent Pool
Many large companies, like Amazon and Apple, make use of the cloud to hire top remote working talent from anywhere and lower their space and costs requirements for physical offices.
Cloud technology allows you to connect and communicate as easily as if you were in the next cubical which means you can hire talent from any location, without geographical limitations.
Many small startups run their companies completely remotely to avoid the initial hefty costs of an office, including furniture, utility bills, etc. This helps them gain a competitive edge much faster because it keeps their costs low while allowing them to still operate effectively.
Get Expert Guidance for Your Cloud Transition
Transitioning to the cloud means planning which technologies to use and how to integrate them to best support your business objectives. Genuine Technology Group offers CIO as a Service to give you expert guidance and support during every step of the process.Let’s discuss your cloud opportunities today!
Schedule a free consultation by calling 971-288-0880 or reach us online.