Enabling staff to access business data from just about anywhere, at any time, on any mobile device is what is known as Clouding Computing. When compared to the cost of hosting servers in-house, it is very reasonably priced. Making it ideal for the small business who are on the go and counting their pennies.
In addition, small businesses who can access their data by using cloud computing have the tools necessary to compete within the marketplace.
Roughly doubling the numbers from 2018, up to 60% of business owners will be relying on the cloud for hosting data by 2022, according to research by Gartner.
Cloud Applications for Small Business
Browser-based, Cloud applications are accessible from desktops and mobile devices as long as there’s an internet connection. For as little as $10 a month cloud-based starter packs are on offer from vendors like FreshBooks and Zoho and ideal for freelancers and sole proprietors. They include services such as simple reporting, invoicing and expense tracking.
Meanwhile they are compatible with Android or Apple smartphones and enable the small business to operate while on the go. Therefore, the Cloud-based accounting apps allow you to access your accounting data from anywhere at any time, on any mobile device.
YNAB and Quicken, who are accounting software vendors can potentially save you time and money when it comes to switching to Cloud-based accounting. Why? Because they are able to offer better incentives and upgrades with their cloud products than traditional bookkeeping software.
Why Cloud Computing Can Save You Money
Staff savings: Cloud computing is very convenient as you pay a small monthly- fee and the cloud vendor takes care if maintaining the service or application. In other words, dedicated in-house staff are no longer required to install and update software, manage email and file servers or run backups. It’s all taken care of by the vendor, it’s their responsibility.
Hardware space savings: Your own network doesn’t need software updates anymore. As the business data is in the cloud and taken care of by the vendor. And that free space on your hardware, is now available for your sensitive data. Your computer will now run better, it will be faster.
Application consolidation: You can possibly consolidate your application into one multi-application, with cloud computing service:
Google Apps for Business includes email, calendar scheduling, Google Docs (for creating and sharing documents, presentations, and forms), and Google Sites for creating websites—all for just $5 per month per person on your account.
- Microsoft is now available in a cloud-based version known as Office 365. And it includes online video conferencing and instant messaging connectivity.
- Infostreet which is another cloud computing vendor provides a number of cloud applications for as little as $10 per month per person on your account these include CRM, calendar scheduling, email, conference calling, file sharing, even an employee directory.
System hardware cutbacks: The traditional way of storing data takes up a lot of space on servers and computers. With cloud computing file storage, data backup, and software programs all happen it the cloud. That is to say, you’ll use the vendor’s servers to store this data instead.
Time savings: Cloud computing applications always have the latest features and functions as these are regularly updated by the vendor. In other words, saving you time and money of having to do it yourself.
Other Cloud Computing Advantages
Within two years, 60% of organizations surveyed say their IT will be off-premise, according to research done by S&P Global. Small businesses and new start-ups depend on flexibility to grow their operations, and Cloud computing allows that with a small price tag.
To start using cloud computing, it’s easier and faster to sign up for than buying a costly server and running and installing and maintaining the software all yourself. Most importantly, Cloud computing allows small and start up businesses to focus on the business. And allows the Directors to put their energy into productivity and human connections, rather than server hardware. Cloud computing creates efficiency.
Small business need things made simple, easy and reasonably priced and Cloud computing does all that and more – to make your small business successful.
