If you are a small business owner and you are considering whether to give cloud hosting and computing a try, you may have your doubts about just how impactful it can be for you.
While the vast majority of larger businesses are fully integrated, small businesses can gain just as many benefits from cloud computing in a similar fashion.
In this article, we’ll take a good look at the benefits that cloud hosting and computing can offer to small businesses, in order to help you decide if it’s the right path for you to take.
1. You only pay for what you need
Small businesses invariably have a smaller budget, which must be carefully managed in order to keep the company solvent. This has an impact on what they can spend money on, and when.
While there are many ways that small companies can emulate big companies, unfortunately, budget isn’t usually one of them.
However, cloud computing can be pay-as-you-go, meaning that you only pay as much as you need at any given time.
Instead of paying upfront for what you think you need, and then realising you could have done with less (or indeed require more), cloud computing (with the appropriate provider) can be highly flexible. You can scale up when you want to, and back down again if need be without any unnecessary hassle – which is ideal for small businesses in uncertain markets.
Again, this largely depends on who you choose as your cloud service provider.
2. Accessibility
In today’s world of remote working, small businesses should be able to access their applications, processes, and data from anywhere and at any time they need to.
Cloud computing allows you to do that in a safe and secure way. You could be out on the road, travelling overseas, or at your mum’s house for coffee – and still get the access that you require.
As well as being able to access the information you need, cloud computing also utilises its many servers to ensure that your website or applications are always accessible, and that they aren’t affected by traffic surges and any other issues that may result in your customers being unable to reach you.
3. Data security
Cloud computing can offer data security in so many ways, from secure cloud storage and file sharing, to back-ups and more.
With any number of cyber threats out there affecting individuals and businesses alike, having extra security in place is essential for any business, big or small.
Holding all your data and processes in your data centre leaves them vulnerable to a number of threats. Fortunately, many cloud services include back-ups and archiving in real time, the ability to restore data, and can give you peace of mind knowing that your data is protected and preserved.
Does it make a difference?
Utilising cloud services Australia and around the world can seriously benefit your small business in so many ways – including increased security, accessibility, and profitability.
If you aren’t using cloud computing and hosting in your company now, then you are missing out on the opportunity to expand your business safely and swiftly, and could soon find yourself left behind by your competitors.
As a small business you should take every opportunity to grow, streamline, and work within your budget to achieve your long-term goals – and cloud computing is a great way to go amolife.
