There are huge benefits to using cloud computing, in particular for small and new businesses. There are new start-ups coming onto the scene regularly with products that support businesses such as collaboration tool Slack, expense workflow Expensify and even small business accounting system FreeAgent.
In a future post, we will go into detail with the advantages for both small businesses and schools of using the cloud. But first, let's look at what the cloud is NOT. If you're considering moving your business to the cloud, here's what you need to know when it comes to myths:
1. It is only for high tech businesses
It isn’t. It offers a great way to lower expenses and to improve security. These aren’t benefits that only high tech businesses want to enjoy. No matter what size your business or school is, there is a lot of value in using cloud based technology.
2. Security is the biggest risk
This myth has been spread by information officers who were originally horrified and feeling threatened by the arrival of the cloud. They were concerned about where their role was disappearing to as all the applications that they were paid to manage were vacating their network. However, security is not a huge risk on the cloud. It can be addressed by either implementing a private cloud or even installing a direct connection to the application on the cloud.
3. It is quicker to implement
Although cloud apps are fast to install and put into place, there are some issues that will slow down the use of them. These issues are more related to change of working practices and user processes. By implementing new cloud applications, it’s possible to prevent users from finding their own solutions on the cloud, which will keep data standardised.
4. You pay monthly
Although prices are stated for monthly usage, either by user or data use. It is possible to setup an annual payment. Although this is clearly a level of lock in in that it’s a subscription model, it does lower the amount of administration time needed all round with 12 invoices shrinking to just one.
5. It is cheaper
It might not always be cheaper, but it does bring along with it far more flexibility and ease of use. Applications are accessible from any location with internet access and there is improved security in many cases. In the long run, there will be less expense as upgrades are easier to implement than before, which in most cases would have involved manual installation.
Our advice is this. Before you make your choice, be sure that there is a compelling business reason to make the change to cloud. Do your research before making your decision on cloud vs on premises.
