The Cloud: What it is and why migrate?

Cloud adoption by Australian businesses is on the rise, despite this nearly over 50% of small businesses are yet to embrace cloud computing.  Why? Is it because company owners are unaware of the benefits? Or, is it because people don’t fully understand what cloud services are?

Companies stand to gain by switching to the cloud. How? It can improve your cyber security, increase workplace productivity, minimise downtime and ultimately boost your bottom line. Let’s dig deeper into cloud computing and its benefits before looking at how it’s shaping the modern world of business.

Cloud Computing Explained

Data stored in the cloud refers to data that’s saved on remote servers in data centres rather than in-house servers or your computer’s hard drive. You can use the internet to access applications and data stored on remote servers, which is widely known as cloud computing. Because information is stored remotely, you can access it using any device with an internet connection.

Key Benefits identified when migrating a business to the Cloud

With cloud computing, you can essentially set up a virtual office, providing you with numerous benefits:

  • Reduced IT Costs -Operating expenditure than Capital expenditure

Use cloud-hosted applications, and you won’t need to purchase, maintain or replace on-site hardware, such as servers and cooling equipment. Additionally, you’ll likely get automatic updates and security upgrades as part of your subscription. You can save a small fortune by outsourcing IT maintenance and no need to replace equipment regularly.

  • Scalability when required

You can scale your data storage requirements as and when required when you store it in the cloud, mitigating risks to your business while preparing you for any situation. You can also deal with growth easily regarding software, hardware and storage needs. You add more seats, space, as you need it. Enabling you to budget more effectively.

  • Less Downtime

Downtime can be costly for any sized business. If you have a problem with on-site hardware, you could suffer financially for countless reasons. Store your data in the cloud where it will be backed up automatically, and you’ll minimise the chances of business downtime while ensuring the safety of your data.

  • Increased Productivity

Multiple people from all over the world can access the same data and use the same applications simultaneously thanks to the cloud. By being able to give your employees the ability to collaborate virtually in real-time, you’ll increase workplace productivity, which could work wonders for your business.

How the Cloud Has Impacted the Australian Business Landscape

According to a government survey, cloud services are becoming increasingly popular with Australian businesses. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that 42% of businesses said they used cloud services between the years 2017 and 2018. That’s an increase of about 11% compared to the two previous years.

Companies with more than 200 employees represent the largest adopters of public cloud services. Lack of knowledge on cloud computing is the biggest reason preventing smaller companies from following suit.

Should You Move to the Cloud?

According to the government survey, most small companies fail to adopt cloud services due to a lack of understanding. Some companies believe it’s more cost-effective to pay for an application outright rather than subscribe to its cloud-based counterpart. In reality, using cloud-based applications, whether they’re Google’s range of business apps or management software, can save you money, increase your income, mitigate risks to your company and much more. Learn more about the benefits of the cloud by calling 08 8387 3889 and request that chat.