Cloud services cut costs at every corner. Entrepreneurs are spared hefty start-up and upgrade costs for hardware and software, as specialized cloud providers upgrade their own services.
But is a “full cloud” business model worth it? For most, it is as the pros considerably outweigh the cons. For those who still are on the ropes, know how the cloud can serve you as well as some minimal but potential risks.
1. Integration Difficulties
In early January 2016, Cio.com reported that 90 percent of businesses use the cloud in some capacity. However, integration is still a hurdle, despite the technology’s prevalence. Most IT teams aren’t familiar with the APIs, a foundation used by IT teams to build HTTP services. Because of this difference, the integration process is sometimes lengthy as IT teams to learn and troubleshoot APIs they don’t understand.
These HTTP foundations are essential if your company uses cross-platform devices, such as a combination of tablets and computers, and even different operating systems.
2. Functionality
The cloud can do what your onsite computer can do, and probably more. While on-site computers are still investments businesses must make, the cloud spares you further investment in state-of-the-art hardware. Instead, you can settle on light, fast machines that outsource much of their computing power to the cloud. For instance, you don’t need a computer with a terabyte of memory anymore.
With cloud storage services, like Mozy, you can store most of your data on the cloud. Furthermore, businesses no longer need their own on-site backup server, as cloud services have regular backup schedules. If the data on your company computer is corrupted, all of your important files are also in the cloud. One simple sync and you’re files are restored.
3. Software Alternatives
The updatable software is a staple of yesteryear. With cloud computing, you’ll never be asked to approve an update again. Cloud applications are run directly on your computer, but the processing is done on the service’s own machines. This lets businesses use state-of-the-art applications without huge investments in hardware and software.
For example, rather than an expensive accounting program, cloud-based accounting apps track cash and workflow, real-time tracking, and even simple client invoice management, payroll, and more. Some cloud accounting software comes ready with mobile options while others don’t. Explore the options and decide on the service that fits your needs best.
Choosing the right architecture for your software is a daunting task. While a cloud-based system can solve the problems of software updating, microservices architecture leads to increased flexibility and scalability of your program. To find out whether you need the full cloud option or the microservices example, you need to clearly understand the business objectives.
✋ Warning
Read more about 5 key features to consider when choosing an intrinsically safe mobile device for your business
4. Trust in Cloud Services
While the cloud eases the financial concerns of small businesses, there is a level of trust each business owner must have the cloud services they utilize. When you store your data in the cloud, you entrust it to a third party. While top cloud services, such as Mozy, have military-grade security, these cloud services do present a hefty payoff for any hackers who may breach their defenses.
While this may be a drawback of cloud services. Remember, each cloud provider is only as reliable as its reputation, which means experts in cybersecurity work around the clock to protect customer information and keep data safe from cyber-attacks.
Furthermore, the security these services provide is far more stringent than personal, or even business-grade, antivirus software, and firewall protection. While trust is required for the use of the cloud, your business can rest easy knowing its data is in good hands.
