Benefits of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is essentially an online office, virtualizing the computer power of servers including storage, databases, networking, software, analytics and intelligence, giving access to anyone, anywhere via the internet (‘the cloud’).

Cloud computing has numerous benefits and is being widely adopted worldwide offering faster innovation, flexible resources and economies of scale. Some key advantages include:

Cost effective

Cloud computing is often cheaper than physical storage methods. There is no need for trained employees to manage the software or a large data centre to store the equipment. From a long-term perspective, cloud providers often include automatic updates/upgrades in contracts. This eradicates the need to invest in new systems and equipment as business needs develop and grow, saving time and money on instalments.

Scalability

Scalability is a massive benefit. Cloud solutions allow businesses to scale up and down to react to demand instantly – removing the risk of investing in new equipment or signing up to long-term contracts.

Data back-up

Whether it’s a natural disaster, broken laptop or power outage, cloud computing provides quick data recovery. All data remains accessible via any device that is connected to the internet, so anyone, anywhere, can pick back up where they left off immediately.

Efficient collaboration

Viewing and sharing information is much more efficient. All documents are stored in one place and easily shared with others who are involved in a project or needing access to information. This delivers better control over data as you can clearly see who has access to what.

It also improves business consistency. The latest version of documents are always used as there is just one copy for all to access, stopping individuals storing old documents on personal computers and not updating.

Flexibility

Remote working – which is becoming increasingly more popular following the Covid-19 pandemic – is much easier with cloud solutions, it allows access to all data in any location on any device. This also means those travelling, out on meetings or commuting, can stay up to date with clients and colleagues via their smartphone or tablet.

Security

Security is a concern for a lot of businesses and a high priority, however according to rapidscale, 94% of businesses saw an improvement in security after switching to the cloud.

Cloud computing is powerful and expansive, the sector has enjoyed massive growth over recent years and continues to do so. The European Cloud Computing Market size exceeded USD 25 billion in 2018, and is estimated to grow at over 12% CAGR between 2019 and 2026 – not surprising with the vast number of great advantages it offers to customers of all sizes!