The businesses have undergone ‘re-bonding’ to acquire the new look. The businesses today have emerged out from conventional ways and methods. They are keeping a pace with fast changing technologies by adopting them instantly. One such technology that has created the revolution in market is Cloud Computing.
In simple terms, cloud computing is a modern way of keeping all distant objects
agglomerated at one place. Every small and big businesses are reaping benefits of cloud
computing as it helps in online storage of services, tools and information and provides easy access. Now, businesses and people can easily connect to share and store information which leads to more sales. Cloud computing is an internet based software programming that offers shared pool of computing resources on-demand viz. servers, computer networks, applications, services and storage. Cloud provides an access to everything from customer relationship management system to data back-up. Even small firms can use cloud computing and pay only for the services they use on monthly basis.
Image from :cloudnewsdaily.com
Transition to cloud computing from traditional method of using IT is quite simple and cost effective as one has to just upgrade the existing system. There is no extra cost involved because there is no need to buy new equipment.
Cloud computing offers services in three main and basic models – Software as a Service
(SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (Iaas). In addition, it also provides Mobile Backend as a Service (MBaaS) and Serverless Computing. Here are
following benefits to understand how is cloud computing helping the businesses:
1. Software as a Service (SaaS)
Cloud computing gives businesses an easy access to online software like online invoicing,
online payroll management system, online accounting software and many other online tools which are required to manage the business and to increase production. Businesses will no more have to struggle to own licensed copy of software like Microsoft Office, etc. Especially its beneficial for small businesses as they can store and access key business information in cloud. All a business need to do to use SaaS is subscribe online for an application or service. Google Apps is a best example of SaaS cloud tool.
2. Platform as a Service (PaaS)
The providers of PaaS offer a computing platform to businesses which include database, web server, operating system and programming language execution environment. With the help of PaaS tool, an application developer can develop and run software solutions without worrying about the need to buy relevant hardware and software layers. Google App Engine is the best example of PaaS tool.
Image from: cybage.com
3. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Businesses can buy IT infrastructure such as memory, storage, space, etc. through IaaS at a much lesser price instead of spending a hefty amount on managing their own IT
infrastructure which is quite a complex task. By using IaaS tool, businesses can forget about physical computing resources, data partitioning, scaling, security, etc. Moreover, a cloud user will only be charged for the amount of resources consumed.
Image: silverain.com.au
4. Mobile Backend as a Service (MBaaS)
Businesses can store their data online for backend storing purposes instead of depending on external hard drives. MBaaS services include push notifications, user management, integration with social networking services, etc.
Image: mitechnews.com
Now, let us understand in simple layman terms the advantages of using Cloud computing.
1. Increased Reliability
Businesses often come under pressure with aging hardware or servers. With cloud
computing, companies and other businesses can handle services more reliably. The staff of cloud providers are a bunch of dedicated professionals who can resolve any issue quickly.
2. Data Backup Security
Businesses can focus on increasing their sales instead of worrying about backup data storage with cloud computing. Data can be stored online securely and businesses can retrieve any version of data stored at any point of time easily. In case any mishap happens like natural disaster, sudden power failure or any other crises, businesses will have their key data and information protected and stored at multiple locations. It is also imperative from the perspective of business continuity to access data again quickly to minimize the productivity loss.
3. Provides Improved and Safe Collaboration
With cloud computing, programs, data and information can be used from any location on
any device using internet connection. Businesses which are based at different locations can exchange and view documents and other such sources without even using emails or
calendars. The information sharing becomes completely hassle proof with cloud computing. Not only information but people can also collaborate easily via audio, video and web conference through cloud computing services.
4. Resource Management
Cloud computing services help in improving resource management without actually
indulging manually into it. Especially for off-site locations, cloud has proved to be boon as it becomes difficult to employ manpower there.
5. Reduction in IT Costs
Cloud computing reduces the cost of managing and maintaining IT systems. Businesses can use cloud computer service provider resources instead of buying expensive equipment and systems. The contract of cloud computing includes cost of new hardware, software and system upgrades. Businesses can minimize expenditure as there will be no need to employee expert staff to handle IT operations. The energy consumption also gets reduced and time delays can be managed effectively.
6. Provides Flexibility in Working Conditions
Cloud computing provides access to data from any location thereby enabling employees to work from any location with internet connection. In today’s world of web enabled devices viz. smartphone, tablets, etc. the virtual office can be easily accessed. Flexibility in working conditions when one is able to connect to business from anywhere, anytime enhances productivity and hence maximizes profit.
7. Automatic Updates
Last but not the least, businesses get access to automatic updates of IT requirements. This service is included in the cloud computing service provider. The systems get automatically updated with the latest technology.
