Cloud computing is gaining momentum in many businesses. However, a lot of business owners still doubt the efficiency and reliability of the cloud. Whether you’re about to venture into the cloud or are currently using it, you need to look closely into your cloud computing strategy. For the cloud to work for your business you have to assess a lot of things and be constantly updated with the changes related to it. Here are five things you should focus on when re-evaluating your cloud computing strategy:
Business requirements
As a business owner or manager, you need to be knowledgeable about your business requirements. You need to know how much data and processes you will put in the cloud. Assess your short-term and long-term needs so that you can maximize the use of cloud computing. Before even approaching your vendor, you need to be ready with the specifics of your business operations and how the cloud plays a crucial part in your business. Although the cloud does not directly affect your sales or production, it is an integral aspect in simplifying your day-to-day processes.
Vendor and platform
One thing you need to look for a cloud computing provider is its flexibility. Do not settle for a vendor who offers packages and platforms that sound good but doesn’t really fit to what your business needs. Your vendor should understand how your business works and adjust the settings of your cloud to your advantage. Make sure that your vendor can also create a simple interface that will be easy to use. You and your employees are the primary users of the cloud therefore you should be able to navigate it as smoothly as possible.
Cost
Some businesses venture into cloud computing without reviewing if they are really saving money. After their initial investment and the cloud is running, chief information officers (CIOs) should be able to review the savings that the company has incurred. It is a given that the cloud will help you save a lot in hardware maintenance and other IT requirements. This should translate to a substantial amount that you can see in your year-end review of your finances. If you cannot compute this, you need to re-evaluate if the cloud is indeed cost-efficient for you.
Security
As you increase the use of the cloud, you need to tighten your data security all the more. Security is one of the main concerns of business owners about the reliability of the cloud. With the best platform and an intricate cloud security system, you can definitely protect your data. The key is for you to evaluate regularly your security level. There’s no room for error when it comes to data protection. This is something you need to prioritize and check on a regular basis.
Specialists
You need people who are knowledgeable about cloud computing in your company once you start using it. These engineers who are certified in cloud technologies can help you manage your cloud efficiently. You don’t need a lot of IT specialists. Hire experts depending on the size of your business. If you rely on the cloud for more than 50% percent of your data storage and integration and you have a huge business, then you need a small group of engineers who can ensure that all your information are secure.
Once you’ve tried using the cloud, you will easily see the convenience it brings to your daily operations and data maintenance. However, just like any other program or service you need to maintain and evaluate it regularly. You need to be on your toes when it comes to the management of your data in the cloud. With the help of your vendor and IT experts, you will become more cloud savvy over time. The important thing is that you continue to learn and explore ways how you can maximize the full potential of the cloud for your business.
Author Bio:
Vanessa Parks is a Freelance Systems Analyst with 5 Years of solid experience. She has been an advocate of Desktop virtualisation for improved work efficiency and performance. She also has a passion in dancing, cooking and playing golf.
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