“Is Your Head in the Cloud?” by Tina Zawila

In 2016 it’s fairly safe to say that “Cloud computing” is no longer a new ‘fad’ or even cutting edge technology.  However, it’s not uncommon to hear people say, “I don’t use or trust the cloud”, even though they have been using internet banking for years!

Quite simply, cloud is fast becoming the new normal in everyday life and certainly in business.

So what’s in it for you and your business?  Cloud computing offers:

·         Increased efficiency and productivity.  Your business can easily collaborate, communicate and share information with your employees, contractors, customers, suppliers and advisors. 

·         Flexibility – business owners (and even their employees) can access data from anywhere.  If you need access to your information while you are off-site, you can connect to your virtual office quickly and easily.

·         Disaster recovery – with your information in the cloud, you are not reliant on the hard drive in your computer or your server.  If your hardware fails, you can simply use another device to access your data.

• Improved cash flow!  Cloud accounting software allows you to bill customers or clients from anywhere and encourages them to pay your invoices online with a click of a button.  And cloud technology could also save you money in terms of reducing your investment in computer hardware and data storage. 

So why is that people resist the cloud?  People fear what they do not understand. Therefore, many small businesses choose not to use the cloud due to lack of knowledge and awareness about the benefits and how to implement the platform properly. 

The other most common concern is security.  Remember that for a cloud storage provider, keeping data secure is what they do. They have access to experts, encryption protocols and physical security measures, that as individuals or small businesses we couldn’t dream of having.  Also keep in mind that if you currently only use your own onsite data storage ,all it takes is one disaster to lose everything.  Cloud storage enables the restoration of data, even if the entire office is destroyed.

Despite small businesses’ concerns about migrating to the cloud, the benefits outweigh the fears. If you want to know more about how the cloud can benefit your business, call the professional team at Sothertons Gladstone on 4972 1300.