As a small business owner, chances are you’re already using cloud computing in some way. You may even be unaware of it. That’s because it’s already becoming ingrained in the business world, and for good reason, too. So how can cloud computing benefit you?
What is a cloud server?
Cloud computing is simply computing that is done over the internet. Instead of using a physical server located in your office, using servers in the cloud – ie the internet – lets you access programs and your own data online.
Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox, Amazon Web Services, Slack – these are all examples of cloud computing programs. And using them over traditional server hosted services comes with lots of advantages for your small business. Let’s look at what they are.
The benefits of cloud computing for small businesses
1. You can work from anywhere
Remote working and doing business on the go has become the norm. Being able to access documents, data and the programs you need from wherever you happen to be will give you the edge over your competition. It also relieves small businesses of the need to fork out for costly office space.
Plus, many cloud services have mobile apps now. So, you no longer need to carry your laptop about to work on the go – simply switch seamlessly between devices.
2. Employees can work remotely
With remote and hybrid working here to stay post-pandemic, cloud computing means your employees no longer need to be in an office with access to a physical server to do their jobs well.
The ability to work remotely also means you can choose the best talent for your business, wherever in the world they may be. All they need is an internet connection.
3. It helps collaboration and streamlines workflow
Collaborative working is another feature of the modern business world, and cloud computing makes this easy and effective. By using cloud-hosted files, data is automatically synced between devices so everybody with access to a file always has the most up-to-date version.
It also makes sharing documents and other files with multiple users swift and simple, making workflow systems more efficient.
4. It grows with your business
You’ll never have to worry about outgrowing a physical server’s capacity when you switch to the cloud. Whether you’re scaling your business up or down, you won’t have the expense of updating in-house infrastructure and bandwidth capabilities, or or the hassle of predicting your future requirements. With the cloud, you only pay for what you use. And the opportunities for expansion are endless.
5. It’s easy to back up your data
Every business owner lives in fear of data loss, which can happen via power surges or cuts, or hardware failure. But cloud computing offers an end to those worries, as it makes it easy to back up your data and files, and restore it quickly when needed.
6. It widens your communication options
Fast communications form the basis of business. Cloud-based systems allow you to reap the benefits of advanced email and instant messaging services.
In addition, cloud voice and data technology opens up new levels of customer service and efficiency, with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems, also known as internet calling, soaring in popularity among small business owners recently.
Ready to upgrade to cloud computing? Speak to our experts today about the way to make cloud servers work for your business.