On the heels of my previous post on the subject and before we look at the cloud computing pros and cons, we have to first know what it is and what it means for you and your business. Basically, cloud computing entails the sharing of computer resources instead of having personal devices or local servers handling them.
The word “cloud” represents the internet, thus the term cloud computing simply refers to internet based computing. What this means is that various services such as file storage, applications and servers are offered to businesses’ computers and other devices via the internet. Just as web-based email has been shared for many years, programs and processing are now going the similar way, thanks to cloud computing.
Cloud Computing Pros and Cons:
The Pros:
Access – Stored data is accessible at anytime, from anywhere and by anyone with password control. This makes collaboration with employees in far away locations easier.
Scalable – some cloud computing services and apps let you pay for only what you use. You can also add more server space as your business continues to grow.
Cost reduction – with cloud computing, you do not have to buy any piece of software; you will only be charged a monthly subscription. Furthermore, cloud computing lowers the costs of businesses transactions, reduces paperwork, cuts down hardware costs and also reduces the need for hiring more IT staff in your business.
Data Security – cloud guarantees to offer top level security for your data, and this is usually way better than what a huge number of small businesses can gain access to. Cloud gives users hardware redundancy, access control and backups.
Integration – Cloud apps are created in such a way that makes integration easy. This gives users the ability to insert additional functionality when need arises.
Equal Opportunity – Cloud computing gives both small and mid-size businesses access to the latest technology at reduced prices. Sharing technological resources with other businesses reduces the cost of buying servers and software licensing.
The Cons:
Security – there have been concerns about the loss of data or the possibility of unauthorized access. However, as pointed out above, cloud-based providers offer a higher level of security than what most normal businesses could implement.
Slower Response Time – some users have reported that after pressing “OK”, the system takes a very long time before getting ready for the next transaction. Nonetheless, this delay is usually influenced by your internet speeds and the present demand on the cloud app’s servers.
Data Ownership and Mobility – there are no certainties that your service provider will get rid of your data once you terminate the services. There are also no guarantees that you will get all your data back.
Privacy – Information gathered by cloud computing companies is significantly high. Thus, there is always the possibility that some confidential data may get into the wrong hands.
Costs – most cloud apps cannot be obtained on a one-time payment; those that can are too expensive. This leaves the payment of monthly subscriptions as the only other option, and this ends up being more costly in the long run.
Conclusion
It is imperative that businesses conduct enough research before “going cloud”. In the current time, “going cloud” is a decision that all businesses ought to consider. If you believe that it is best for your business, take time to draw out your transition plan, and establish how your business progress. Critically analyze the cloud computing pros and cons , and decide what perfectly suits your business.
Have Some Cloud Computing Pros and Cons of Your Own? Leave a comment below and share it with our rereads.