Cloud computing is now being used by companies of all sizes from start-ups to multi-nationals. Here are 5 key benefits it could bring to your business.
1. Cheaper
There are a number of cloud-based versions of software for accounting, managing your contacts, word processing, Excel and more. This allows small businesses to pick and choose packages to suit their budget instead of having to buy a full business suite of software. It also means that all your employees can work from one licence instead of having to buy one for each computer.
According to a survey by America telephonic firm AT&T, 46% of small businesses that use cloud services access such productivity tools online. As the software is updated automatically, users always have access to the latest features.
2. Flexibility
Instead of investing in huge servers, small businesses can opt for cloud storage which allows them to expand if they need to and then, if things don’t work out, simply cut back on your contract. This flexibility can save money as you don’t end up paying for space you’re not using.
As a number of cloud-based services are charged on a month-by-month basis, it gives businesses more flexibility. When times are good or you are planning to expand, you can simply increase your services for as long as you need.
3. More locations
Cloud computing opens your business up to the world. With cloud computing comes remote working, which allows your staff to access the company’s network from any location. This means they could be working while on their way to a business meeting or from home.
With video conferencing and file sharing over the cloud, you can also meet with clients across the world as if they were in your offices.
4. Get the best staff
When you embrace remote working, it means you can broaden your geographical scope when it comes to hiring. This results in you having a wider pool of talent to choose from.
Essentially, you can hire the best person from across the world to fill your vacancy instead of the best person in commutable distance.
5. Remote workers are more productive
And if you’re worried that remote workers won’t work as hard as office-based staff, then think again. New studies from Stanford University found that letting employees work from home made them happier, less likely to quit and more productive.
Another study from Ctrip, a Chinese travel website, found that not only were home workers 13.5% more productive than office staff but they also saved themselves $1,900 per employee over a nine month period on furniture and office space.
Posted by The Secret Businessman