As cloud computing services continue to evolve so do the number of people opting for them. A survey found that 88% of enterprises are using public cloud while 63% are using private cloud.
With more and more businesses moving towards a cloud computing strategy it is likely that all businesses will perform using cloud computing in the future. So why is that some businesses have not yet adopted the cloud?
WHAT EXACTLY IS CLOUD COMPUTING?
It’s easy to assume people automatically know what cloud computing is, however for many it is a simple two-word phrase strictly related to those in the tech industry. However, the cloud is something which we deal with almost every day.
Cloud computing means storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer’s hard drive. There are three models of cloud service:
- Infrastructure as a service (IaaS)
- Platform as a service (PaaS)
- Software as a service (SaaS)
This allows highly advanced applications to be made available to users at the push of the button with data being sat offsite rather than on premise.
HOW THE CLOUD AFFECTS EVERYDAY LIFE
Whilst cloud computing is highly emphasised within the work environment, it is easy to overlook the impact the cloud has on everyday life. Social media is now part of almost everyone’s daily routine, the addiction to refreshing, scrolling and screenshotting is all easily accessible because of the cloud.
Before Facebook first launched in 2004 there was no easy way to instantly “check in” to a restaurant or anywhere to post selfies. Many Facebook users are probably unaware of the fact that it is indeed a cloud service.
The likes of Facebook, Instagram and Skype have allowed us to access communication to anyone in the world whilst being anywhere in the world. And for most, Facebook is the only source of communication method easily accessible free of charge- hence it playing such an important role day-to-day. All of which only being possible because of the cloud.
HOW THE CLOUD AFFECTS THE WORKPLACE
By adopting a cloud computing strategy within the working environment, an increase in productivity and change in employee happiness can be achieved. Within cloud computing, there are also strategies which can be implemented such as BYOD. By enterprises opting for a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) approach to working, this resulted in 49% of users feeling they are more productive with an average of 81 minutes being saved per week on tasks.
Other examples include the likes of IaaS which allows for a cleaner working space improving concentration and providing a more focused mindset in comparison to those with a clutter filled workspace due to hardware and filing cabinets. This is achieved by the cloud provider essentially “renting” computing equipment to users, eliminating the need for businesses to divert spending on IT kit.
The expenses of managing the underlying complex hardware are outsourced to the cloud provider. Meaning if the scale of the business fluctuates, or they are looking to expand, they can simply contact the provider as and when they need to, replacing the traditional process of purchasing and installing software themselves.
SO, HOW IS THE CLOUD THE FUTURE?
Practices such as remote working, accessing data from any device and allowing access to real-time collaboration are only possible with cloud computing technology. And now, with mobile usage being more popular than desktop usage it’s clear that cloud adoption is more vital than ever before.
The advantages which can be seen through adopting a cloud computing strategy include:
- A reduction in IT maintenance costs
- Increased automation
- Rapid scalability
- Simplified IT framework
As cloud computing evolves into a necessary transition, specifically for businesses, it is essential for this new way of working to have a strong and secure foundation through experienced cloud providers.
Contact us today to find out how we can provide the foundations for cloud computing adoption.
