In little more than a decade, cloud computing has changed from a cutting-edge technology to a well-established part of the IT function in many businesses. Cloud computing offers the benefits of cost savings and access to new technology. Read on about what cloud computing can do for your business, as well as what to consider before migrating to the cloud.
The Growth of Cloud Computing
According to a report published by CompTIA in 2018, 81% of companies say that operating in the cloud has had at least a moderate, if not outstanding, effect on their automation efforts. Even though the hype over cloud computing has decreased, this mode of computing is still a key feature of IT planning in most companies. The IDC expects that cloud spending will reach $162 billion dollars by 2020. And more and more IT spending in companies is cloud-based.
The Benefits of Cloud Computing
A key benefit of Cloud Computing is providing new tools companies can use to grow their business. One such tool is desktop as a service (DaaS), a utility often included in Cloud services. Other commonly used applications are VoIP, Call Center and Cloud backup of data. Since companies can move their data and more routine operations like VoIP, call center and data backup to the cloud, they can focus on strategies for long-term growth and explore new prospects for business growth. For IT workers, the prospect of job loss lessens, since they can learn new skills and expand their roles. Finally, migrating to the cloud can help reduce costs by changing capital expense—perhaps in the form of aging infrastructure—to operating expense. But even with all the benefits of cloud computing, certain factors need to be considered before migration.
What to Consider Before Choosing the Cloud
When your company is considering migrating to the cloud, first consider whether public or private cloud is right for your business. If your company is subject to regulations such as HIPAA, a private cloud solution may be right for you. If you are migrating to a public or hybrid cloud, ask the potential provider about the security of their datacenter. Also consider, data centers near reliable power grids are the least vulnerable. If you have employees working remotely, make sure they know proper security procedures. Other options for your company may be using virtual desktop for applications or software-as-a-service to get life out of aging infrastructure.
To learn about the benefits of moving to the cloud as well as what to consider when choosing a cloud service provider, contact your technology advisor today.
