Do you think cloud computing is too high tech for your small to medium sized business? If so, you are wrong. Cloud computing is useful for businesses of all sizes. It can reduce your IT costs, improve your Disaster Recovery, and be scaled to fit your needs. Here are a few ways you might consider using the cloud from About.com.
1. Data Backup
As a small business owner, you are probably already aware of the importance of backing up your data so you don’t lose everything in the case of a systems failure or other disaster. The Cloud not only simplifies the process by allowing your data to automatically update as you work, but it also creates copies of your data off-site where it will be safe from any local natural disaster, theft or malfunction.
2. Mobile Working
One of the great benefits of technology is the ability for small business owners to create fully functional mobile offices. The Cloud fits in perfectly with this because it allows you to access and sync your data from wherever you are, essentially allowing you to take your office with you on the road.
3. Information Sharing
Whether you have in-house staff or a team spread across a distance, the Cloud makes sharing data effortless. Once you have your data backed up, sharing files can be as easy as sending a link, eliminating the cumbersome process of emailing large files or saving copies on drives that are then mailed.
4. File Storage
Many small businesses are using images, audio and video to enhance their marketing activities. These files often take up a significant part of your hard drive space, which can be costly. The Cloud allows you to shift the storage of large files off of your local system, saving local storage for the files you need to access every day.
5. Growth Planning
The Cloud is scalable, so it allows small businesses to create a plan for growth that utilizes the benefits of the Cloud without a significant up-front investment. You can start small, and gradually increase your usage over time, while only paying incrementally for the services and access you need. The Cloud is also self-managed by the apps that provide the services so you can eliminate or at least reduce the need for an in-house IT staff to manage your technology.
If you are interested in learning more about how a complete or hybrid cloud solution can improve your business operations, contact the Cloud Experts at Great Lakes Computer Corporation. And learn more about our CompleteCloud offering by clicking the button below.
